Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

Gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe with soft, fluffy texture and sweet cinnamon filling. Made with a gluten-free flour blend, butter or vegan butter, and a simple cinnamon sugar filling, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or holiday treats. Includes easy icing and can be made dairy-free with plant-based milk and vegan butter. Perfect for make-ahead meals, special occasions, or cozy mornings at home.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

• 1/4 cup butter or vegan butter
• 1 cup milk (see notes)
• 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon sugar, divided
• 1 packet quick-rise instant yeast
• 1 large egg, whisked
• 2 1/2 cups gluten-free baking flour blend with binder (Schar MixIt Universal recommended)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1/3 cup butter or vegan butter, very soft

For the Icing

• 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 1/2 tablespoons hot water

---

Directions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add milk and 1 tablespoon sugar, then microwave an additional 45–50 seconds. Check temperature (110°F) with an instant-read thermometer. Sprinkle yeast on top, stir gently, and let sit 8 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be old or the liquid temperature was off.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Stir in the whisked egg and remaining 1/3 cup sugar.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt with a fork. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in two batches, stirring until just incorporated. Dough should be soft but not overly sticky, similar to sugar cookie dough.
4. First Rise: Cover the dough with a tea towel and place in a warm spot to double in volume, about 1 hour.
5. Prepare Filling: Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Spray a 9” pie plate with nonstick spray.
6. Shape the Rolls: Scrape dough onto lightly greased parchment paper. Spread into a 1/4″ thick rectangle, roughly 10×14”. Gently spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1” border at the bottom. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly on top. Using the parchment paper, roll the dough from the top down to form a log. Pinch seams lightly and slice the log into 12 rolls, arranging them in the prepared pan.
7. Second Rise: Place rolls in a warm spot until puffy, about 30–40 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F during the last 10 minutes of rising.
8. Bake: Bake 16–20 minutes until golden brown, rotating the pan halfway through. Let cool 15 minutes.
9. Make Icing: Whisk together butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and hot water until smooth. Drizzle over rolls once slightly cooled. Serve immediately or store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat 20–25 seconds uncovered in the microwave.

---

Tips

• Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure milk is 110°F for proper yeast activation.
• Lightly grease parchment paper to prevent sticking during rolling.
• Avoid pressing dough too thin when rolling; this helps the rolls keep their shape.
• Rolls taste best the same day, but can be refrigerated and gently warmed later.

Variations and Substitutions

• Butter: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Milk: Any plant-based milk works, such as almond, oat, or soy.
• Flour: Schar MixIt Universal is recommended, but other gluten-free blends with binders may work.
• Filling Flavors: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
• Icing: Substitute maple syrup or dairy-free cream cheese frosting.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made and refrigerated before the first rise; let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, freeze before the second rise and thaw at room temperature before baking.

Do I have to use gluten-free flour?
Yes, to keep the recipe gluten-free. Regular flour will change the texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with icing drizzled on top.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for breakfast or brunch.
• Make a batch for holiday gatherings or weekend treats.
• Use leftover rolls to make breakfast sandwiches with eggs or fruit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy, and tender gluten-free cinnamon rolls.
• Fully customizable for dairy-free and vegan diets.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime.
• Can be made ahead or frozen for convenience without compromising flavor.