Made with a perfect blend of gluten-free flours and spices, these cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar. They are so delicious; you won’t even know they are gluten-free!
Whether you follow a gluten-free diet or simply want to try something new, this recipe is a must-try (and so are gluten-free Black Bean Brownies). So, let’s get started on making these mouthwatering gluten-free cinnamon rolls!
Why I Love These Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls
When I first started baking gluten-free recipes, the first couple of months were just failed recipe after failed recipe. My GF bread not only tasted like cardboard, it even looked like cardboard. I was convinced baking without gluten would never measure up.
But once I really got the hang of gluten-free baking and bread making, my family always noticed when I switched back to traditional recipes. Inevitably, someone would ask, “When will you make the gluten-free cinnamon rolls again?” while a perfectly good “gluten-filled” cinnamon roll sat on their plate right in front of them.
I was shocked! Turns out, my family and I CHOOSE to make gluten-free foods over traditional recipes BECAUSE of the taste! I didn’t think it was possible not to miss gluten, but I was very wrong.
Because we know the importance of a healthy breakfast, these gluten-free cinnamon rolls make an appearance every now and then as a special treat. Looking for more homemade breakfast recipes? Look no further:
- Homemade Healthy Instant Breakfast Mix
- Rhubarb Breakfast Cake Recipe
- Whole Wheat Scones Recipe
- Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Sweet Potato & Pepper Hash
- How to Cook Scrambled Eggs in Cast Iron
- Flexible Frittata Recipe
What Is Gluten-Free Bread Flour?
Gluten-free bread flour is a type of flour specially formulated to mimic the effects of regular wheat bread flour without containing gluten. It is made by combining various gluten-free grains and starches, such as rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch, to create a blend that behaves similarly to wheat flour when used in baking.
When baking gluten-free cinnamon rolls, using a bread flour blend designed for gluten-free baking is vital. Gluten-free bread flour provides the necessary structure and elasticity to the dough, resulting in soft, fluffy rolls that resemble their wheat-based counterparts.
By milling your own flour, you can select the specific flour type you want or create flour blends that are best for gluten-free sourdough.
What Gluten-Free Flour Works With Yeast?
When it comes to gluten-free baking, finding a flour that works well with yeast can be a challenge. Traditional wheat flour provides the structure and rise that yeast needs to create light and fluffy baked goods. However, with the right gluten-free flour blend, you can achieve similar results.
There are different brands and types of gluten-free bread flour available on the market. Some blends may contain xanthan gum or other binders to improve the texture and rise of the dough, while others may be free of any additives.
The Art of Gluten-Free Homemade Bread
While they are convenient, gluten-free flour blends come with a hefty price tag. However, when you understand the different gluten-free grains, their nutritional contributions, and how they act in gluten-free baking, you can confidently blend your own gluten-free flour, and at a significant savings!
That is why The Art of Gluten-Free Homemade Bread includes a gluten-free primer, teaching you everything you need to know to successfully make delicious and nutritious gluten-free baked goods completely from scratch. The recipes in this book will transform what you thought gluten-free could taste like and will open up a whole new world of nutritional possibilities. Your family will be begging for it before you know it!
Although we’re sold out of the physical book, we still have some digital options available! Get on the waitlist for the physical book and get instant access to a digital copy today!
Tips for Making Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls
When it comes to making gluten-free cinnamon rolls, there are a few key tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to gluten-free baking, these tips will ensure that your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly fluffy and delicious.
- Choose the right gluten-free flour blend – Not all gluten-free flours are created equal. Look for a flour blend that is specifically formulated for baking and includes ingredients like xanthan gum or guar gum. These ingredients help to add structure and elasticity to the dough, resulting in cinnamon rolls that are not crumbly or dry. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different blends to find the one that gives you the best results.
- Measure your ingredients accurately – Precision is key when it comes to gluten-free baking, and measuring your ingredients by weight instead of volume will give you the best results.
- Don’t overmix the dough – Gluten-free doughs tend to be stickier and more delicate than traditional wheat doughs. Avoid overworking the dough, which can ruin the texture and make your rolls tough.
- Allow the dough to rise properly – Gluten-free doughs often require more time to rise than traditional doughs. Be patient and allow your cinnamon roll dough to rise until it has doubled in size. This will help to give your rolls a light and airy texture.
- Roll the dough tightly – When rolling out your dough, make sure to roll it tightly to create a smooth and even spiral. This will help prevent gaps between the layers and give your cinnamon rolls a uniform shape.
- Bake at the right temperature – Gluten-free baked goods can be sensitive to temperature, so it’s important to bake your cinnamon rolls at the right temperature. Follow the recipe instructions carefully and keep an eye on the rolls as they bake to ensure they don’t get too brown.
Homesteading Hack – Invest in an oven thermometer to validate that your oven is at the correct temperature.
Supplies Needed
To make delicious gluten-free cinnamon rolls, you’ll need a few essential supplies and equipment. Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you have everything you need before you start baking:
- Mixing Bowl – A large bowl with room to incorporate all the ingredients thoroughly works best.
- Whisk – A wire whisk is needed to make sure your yeast completely dissolves.
- Pastry Brush – Use a coffee filter if you don’t have a pastry brush. Simply crumple the filter at the base, dip the edges into the butter, and brush as you would with a pastry brush.
- Baking Dish – You will need an 8×8 (or equivalent size) baking dish.
Ingredients Needed
To make delicious gluten-free cinnamon rolls, you will need the following ingredients:
Dough:
- Yeast – Use active dry yeast and not instant yeast for this recipe.
- Sugar – This sugar is used to proof yeast.
- Warm Water – Make sure your water is warm enough to activate your yeast but not so hot that it will kill it. 105°F-110°F works best.
- Mild-tasting Oil – Melted homemade butter works well too.
- Buttermilk – If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, soured milk or milk with a teaspoon of vinegar works too.
- Sugar – I use organic evaporated cane juice.
- Vanilla – Pure vanilla extract, vanilla bean, or vanilla paste gives the best vanilla flavor.
- GF Baking Blend – Use either whole grain or all-purpose you have blended yourself or your favorite commercial gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend.
- Salt – I use Redmond Real Salt; just make sure your salt has no additives. (Using that link for Redmond Salt will automatically give you 15% off your order!)
- Baking Soda – Check the expiration date for the best quality, and be sure to remove any lumps.
Filling:
- Brown Sugar – Light or dark brown will do whatever you have in the kitchen.
- Cinnamon – A pinch of nutmeg added is good too!
Vanilla Icing:
- Powdered Sugar – Aka confectioner’s sugar.
- Butter – Melted.
- Vanilla – Pure vanilla extract gives the best vanilla flavor.
- Milk – You can substitute milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
How to Make Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls
Now that we have all the ingredients and supplies ready, let’s get started on making these irresistible gluten-free cinnamon rolls!
- Whisk the yeast, 1 tsp of sugar, and warm water together in a mixing bowl.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to proof the yeast.
- After 10 minutes, the yeast should be foamy and bubbly.
- Now, whisk in the oil, milk, 1⁄2 cup sugar, and vanilla.
- Add the flour, salt, and baking soda and stir to combine.
- On a floured surface, pat the dough into a rough rectangle about 1⁄2 inch (1.25 cm) thick.
- Brush it with oil and sprinkle it with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll up the dough from one end, slice into 1-inch rolls, and place the rolls into a greased baking dish.
- Rise for 1 hour. Homesteading Hack – To create the ideal warm environment for the dough to rise, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and then turn it off. Place the covered pan of cinnamon rolls inside the oven.
- Brush the top with oil or butter just before baking.
- Bake at 350° F (176° C) for 20 minutes.
- Remove rolls from the oven and cool completely before icing.
- To make an easy vanilla icing, combine powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla and milk in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Pour over warm rolls and spread.
By using a gluten-free flour blend that works well with yeast, you can achieve a soft and fluffy texture that rivals traditional cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re dealing with dietary restrictions or simply want to try something new, these gluten-free cinnamon rolls are sure to impress!
Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a star rating in the recipe card below. Then, snap a photo and tag us on social media @homesteadingfamily so we can see your gluten-free cinnamon rolls! We’re certain this recipe will become your go-to breakfast for all your special occasions, like Christmas morning!
FAQ
No, regular flour contains gluten, which gives the dough its structure. For gluten-free cinnamon rolls, you will need to use a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking.
Yes, you can easily make these gluten-free cinnamon rolls dairy-free by using dairy-free alternatives.
Absolutely! To make the cinnamon rolls vegan-friendly, simply replace the dairy-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as vegan butter substitutes and plant-based milk in place of regular milk.
While there are many great options available, one highly recommended brand for gluten-free baking is Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. This blend works well in recipes that call for regular flour and yields excellent results.
These gluten free cinnamon rolls are best when enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Other Posts You May Enjoy
- The Importance of a Healthy Breakfast
- Homemade Healthy Instant Breakfast Mix
- Rhubarb Breakfast Cake Recipe
- Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Sweet Potato & Pepper Hash
- How to Cook Scrambled Eggs in Cast Iron
- Flexible Frittata Recipe
Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Pastry Brush
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 teaspoon yeast active dry, not instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar for the yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons oil avocado oil or butter works well
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3.25 cups gluten-free baking flour blend plus 1/4 cup more, if needed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
For the Filling
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
For the Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoons butter melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 Tablespoons milk can use heavy cream or half & half
Instructions
- Whisk the yeast, 1 tsp of sugar, and warm water together in a mixing bowl.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to proof the yeast.
- After 10 minutes, the yeast should be foamy and bubbly.
- Now, whisk in the oil, milk, 1⁄2 cup sugar, and vanilla.
- Add the flour, salt, and baking soda and stir to combine.
- On a floured surface, pat the dough into a rough rectangle about 1⁄2 inch (1.25 cm) thick.
- Brush it with oil and sprinkle it with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll up the dough from one end, slice in to 1-inch rolls, and place the rolls into a greased baking dish.
- Rise for 1 hour. Homesteading Hack – To create the ideal warm environment for the dough to rise, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and then turn it off. Place the covered pan of cinnamon rolls inside the oven.
- Brush the top with oil or butter just before baking.
- Bake at 350° F (176° C) for 20 minutes.
- Remove rolls from the oven and cool slightly before icing.
For the Icing
- To make an easy vanilla icing, combine powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla and milk in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Pour over slightly warm or cooled rolls and spread.
