Indulge in the Best Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Ever!

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and delightful taste of homemade gluten-free cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply craving a comforting, freshly-baked treat, this recipe delivers. With its soft, pillowy dough and decadent cinnamon-sugar filling, it’s a gluten-free masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Table of Contents

The Rise of Gluten-Free Baking

As more people embrace a gluten-free lifestyle, the demand for delectable baked goods that cater to this dietary need has skyrocketed. Gluten-free cinnamon rolls have become a fan favorite, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll without the worry.

Why Choose Homemade Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls?

Making gluten-free cinnamon rolls at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a high-quality, freshly-baked treat. Not only do you get to customize the fillings and toppings to your liking, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious, gluten-free masterpiece from scratch.

Overview of the Recipe and What to Expect

This gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe delivers a soft, fluffy dough that’s easy to work with and rolls out beautifully. The cinnamon-sugar filling adds a delightful sweetness, while the creamy cream cheese frosting tops off each roll with a decadent finishing touch. Get ready to savor the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Understanding Gluten-Free Ingredients

The Importance of Gluten-Free Flour

The key to successful gluten-free cinnamon rolls lies in the flour you choose. Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour is a fantastic option, as it’s specifically formulated to mimic the behavior of traditional all-purpose flour. This ensures your dough rises and bakes up just as wonderfully as its gluten-containing counterpart.

The Role of Xanthan Gum

Xanthan gum is a crucial ingredient in gluten-free cinnamon rolls as it helps replicate the structure and texture provided by gluten. It binds the ingredients together, creating a soft, pliable dough that’s easy to work with. If your gluten-free flour doesn’t already contain xanthan gum, be sure to add it to your recipe.

Alternatives to Common Ingredients

For those with additional dietary restrictions, gluten-free cinnamon rolls can be made with alternative milk options, such as almond, oat, or macadamia milk, in place of traditional dairy milk. These substitutions can easily be incorporated without compromising the final result.

Ingredient Breakdown for Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk or alt-milk (like almond, oat, macadamia milk), warmed to 110°-115°F
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) yeast
• ½ cup white sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled until just warm to the touch, about 110°-115°F
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ½ cups Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons xanthan gum (only if flour doesn’t contain it already)
• 2 teaspoons gluten-free baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 1 packed cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or margarine)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

Preparing the Dough

Begin by combining the warm milk and yeast in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, allowing the yeast to activate and become foamy. This step is crucial for ensuring your gluten-free cinnamon rolls rise properly.

Next, add the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla to the yeast mixture, stirring until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if needed), baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, kneading the dough with a stand mixer using a bread hook or by hand until it becomes smooth and pliable.

Allowing the Dough to Rise

Cover the gluten-free cinnamon roll dough and let it rest in a warm place for 30-60 minutes, allowing it to rise and become light and airy. This step is essential for achieving the perfect soft and fluffy texture in your final rolls.

Preparing the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a medium bowl to create the delectable cinnamon filling.

Rolling, Filling, and Slicing the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll the gluten-free cinnamon roll dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, then tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 9-12 equal-sized rolls and place them in a parchment-lined 9×13 baking dish.

Baking the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the gluten-free cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as gluten-free doughs can be more sensitive to heat.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, mixing until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. This decadent cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch for your gluten-free cinnamon rolls.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing

Freshly baked gluten-free cinnamon rolls make an irresistible breakfast, brunch, or afternoon treat. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy, indulgent experience. For leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of gluten-free flour works best for cinnamon rolls?

Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour is an excellent choice for gluten-free cinnamon rolls. This flour blend is specifically formulated to mimic the behavior of traditional all-purpose flour, ensuring your dough rises and bakes up beautifully.

How do I make the dough soft and fluffy without gluten?

The key to achieving soft, fluffy gluten-free cinnamon rolls lies in the use of xanthan gum. This essential ingredient helps replicate the structure and texture provided by gluten, binding the ingredients together and creating a supple, pliable dough. Be sure to include the recommended amount of xanthan gum in your recipe, or use a gluten-free flour that already contains it.

Can I make gluten-free cinnamon rolls ahead of time and reheat them?

Absolutely! Gluten-free cinnamon rolls can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment. Once baked, allow the rolls to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, simply reheat the rolls in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What are the best fillings and toppings for gluten-free cinnamon rolls?

The classic cinnamon-sugar filling is a delicious choice for gluten-free cinnamon rolls, but you can also get creative with other flavors. Try adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of chocolate or nut butter to the filling. As for toppings, the creamy cream cheese frosting is an indulgent choice, but you can also experiment with vanilla glaze, streusel, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Rolls
• Vegan Cinnamon Rolls
• Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Rolls
• Gluten-Free Sticky Buns

Conclusion

Embrace the joy of gluten-free cinnamon rolls and treat yourself to a delectable, homemade treat. With the perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting, these rolls are a true delight for the senses. Indulge in the comforting flavors, share them with loved ones, or keep them all to yourself – either way, you’re sure to savor every last bite of this gluten-free masterpiece.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

Print