Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Gluten-free cinnamon rolls often get a bad reputation for being dry or dense, but this recipe proves that they can be just as soft, fluffy, and indulgent as traditional versions. These rolls are tender, lightly sweet, and filled with warm cinnamon flavor, then finished with a smooth, creamy icing that melts beautifully over the top. I have tested this recipe multiple times to achieve the perfect balance of structure and softness, and the result is a cinnamon roll that no one would guess is gluten-free. They are perfect for weekend breakfasts, holidays, or special occasions when you want a comforting treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you follow a gluten-free diet or simply love homemade cinnamon rolls, this recipe delivers classic comfort with dependable results.
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Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls (Soft, Fluffy, and Bakery-Style)
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Soft and fluffy gluten-free cinnamon rolls swirled with sweet cinnamon sugar and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix gluten-free flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until a soft dough forms.
- Cover and let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper into a rectangle.
- Spread softened butter over the dough.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
- Carefully roll the dough into a log and slice into 8 rolls.
- Place rolls into a greased baking dish and cover loosely.
- Let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until lightly golden.
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
- Drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Notes
- Do not add extra flour; gluten-free dough is softer than regular dough.
- Use parchment paper to make rolling easier.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour
A high-quality gluten-free flour blend provides structure while keeping the rolls soft and tender.
Granulated Sugar
Sugar sweetens the dough and helps activate the yeast.
Instant Yeast
Instant yeast allows the dough to rise and gives the rolls their light, fluffy texture.
Salt
Salt balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Warm Milk
Warm milk adds moisture and richness to the dough. Dairy-free milk works well if needed.
Eggs
Eggs provide structure and softness to the gluten-free dough.
Unsalted Butter
Butter adds richness and classic cinnamon roll flavor.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar creates a rich, caramel-like filling when combined with cinnamon.
Ground Cinnamon
Cinnamon delivers the warm, comforting flavor that defines classic cinnamon rolls.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese forms the base of the smooth, tangy icing.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the icing and creates a silky texture.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla adds depth and warmth to the icing.
Directions
In a large bowl, combine gluten-free flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, eggs, and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface lined with parchment paper. Gently roll it into a rectangle.
Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
Using the parchment paper to help, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into equal rolls and place them into a greased baking dish.
Cover and let the rolls rise for another 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rolls are set and lightly golden.
While the rolls cool slightly, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the icing over warm rolls before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 10 to 12 cinnamon rolls.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: approximately 2 hours
Storage/reheating
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm in the oven at low heat until soft.
Variations and Customizations
These gluten-free cinnamon rolls are easy to customize. You can add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture. I tested a version with chopped pecans, and it added a wonderful crunch.
For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese.
You can also replace cream cheese icing with a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
If you prefer extra cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon slightly in the filling.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate nutrition per roll:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbs | 46 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 22 g |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use a Quality Flour Blend
This greatly affects texture.
Do Not Overflour
Gluten-free dough should remain slightly sticky.
Roll with Parchment Paper
This makes shaping easier.
Ice While Warm
The icing melts beautifully over the rolls.
Serve Fresh
Texture is best the day they are baked.
FAQs
Are gluten-free cinnamon rolls difficult to make?
No, this recipe is beginner-friendly with clear steps.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake them and reheat before serving.
Can I freeze gluten-free cinnamon rolls?
Yes, freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months.
Why is my dough sticky?
Gluten-free dough is naturally softer than wheat dough.
Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes, but dissolve it in warm milk first.
Are these rolls suitable for non-gluten-free eaters?
Yes, many people cannot tell they are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls can be just as soft, fluffy, and comforting as traditional versions when made correctly. With warm cinnamon filling, tender dough, and creamy icing, this recipe delivers classic bakery-style flavor without gluten. Perfect for special breakfasts or sweet treats, these rolls are a reliable, satisfying recipe you will want to make again and again.
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