If you have ever dreamed of enjoying soft, gooey, and irresistibly fragrant cinnamon rolls without worrying about gluten, look no further. This is the BEST Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe you will find anywhere, combining a tender dough with the classic swirl of buttery cinnamon and brown sugar, all topped with a luscious cream cheese icing. Each bite offers that perfect balance of sweet and spice, with a delightfully fluffy texture that rivals any traditional cinnamon roll you’ve loved in the past. It’s a true game changer for anyone seeking a cozy, homemade sweet treat that everyone can enjoy without compromise.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet critical for creating that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. Each plays an important role—from the gluten-free flour blend that forms the soft base, to the cinnamon-spiced filling that brings warmth and sweetness, and finally the creamy icing that adds a rich finishing touch.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum (2 1/2 cups): The foundation of the dough, providing structure and tenderness that mimics traditional flour perfectly.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a touch of sweetness to activate the yeast and balance savory notes.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet / 2 1/4 teaspoons): Essential for a light, airy rise to give the rolls their fluffy crumb.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps boost the dough’s lift and softness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Warm milk (3/4 cup, about 110°F): Provides moisture and activates the yeast perfectly for a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Infuses richness and keeps the dough moist.
- Eggs, room temperature (2 large): Adds structure and binding power to the dough.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 teaspoon): Helps tenderize the dough and enhances flavor depth.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds sweet aromatic notes that brighten the entire roll.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup for filling): Creates that classic cinnamon roll richness in the filling.
- Brown sugar, packed (3/4 cup for filling): Adds deep caramel sweetness and moisture to the cinnamon swirl.
- Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 tablespoons): Provides the signature warm spice that defines a cinnamon roll.
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces for icing): Brings tangy creaminess to the icing that perfectly complements the rolls.
- Unsalted butter, softened (2 tablespoons for icing): Adds smooth richness to balance the cream cheese.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup for icing): Sweetens the icing and creates a silky texture.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon for icing): Enhances the flavor complexity of the frosting.
- Milk (1 to 2 tablespoons for icing): Adjusts the icing consistency to the perfect spreadable texture.
How to Make BEST Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together your gluten-free flour blend, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry blend, stirring until a soft dough forms. This dough will feel tender and slightly sticky, perfect for creating those fluffy rolls. Beat it for 2 to 3 minutes using an electric mixer or vigorous hand mixing to help the dough structure develop. Then cover it tightly and set it in a warm spot to rise for 45 to 60 minutes until it puffs slightly.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling
Once the dough has risen, place it between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking, and roll it out gently into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the flat dough, making sure to coat every edge. Next, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough. This cinnamon-sugar filling is what will create those iconic swirls and pockets of sweet spice in every bite.
Step 3: Form the Rolls and Second Rise
Use the parchment paper to carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the longer edges. Pinch the seam closed to hold the roll shape, then slice the log into nine equal-sized rolls using a sharp knife. Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9-inch baking dish, arranged close but not squished together. Cover them and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes to develop that final fluffiness before baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Heat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 22 to 26 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden color on top and a set center when gently pressed. The rolls should spring back slightly when touched. This baking time creates that tender-yet-structured interior and lovely browned exterior that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Icing
While the rolls are baking, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach a creamy, spreadable consistency. Beat everything together until perfectly smooth and luscious. This icing is the final indulgent touch that transforms these rolls into a true morning delight.
Step 6: Ice and Serve
Spread the cream cheese icing generously over the warm rolls right after they come from the oven. The heat melts the frosting into the crevices, creating a gooey, irresistible topping that is hard to get enough of. Serve immediately for the tastiest experience.
How to Serve BEST Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of charm, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the icing for a delightful crunch. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a few fresh berries can also add visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor that complements the cinnamon notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve these cinnamon rolls alongside a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea to create a cozy breakfast experience. For a more substantial brunch, pair with fresh fruit salad or scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness with savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing each cinnamon roll into individual muffin liners for easy grab-and-go portions or drizzle additional caramel or chocolate sauce over the icing for decadence. These rolls also look stunning served on a rustic wooden board surrounded by edible flowers for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerating is an option, but bring them back to room temperature and warm slightly before serving to restore softness.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven.
Reheating
Reheat cinnamon rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, but the oven will give you back that fresh-from-the-oven texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter, milk, and cream cheese for your favorite plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, almond or oat milk, and dairy-free cream cheese. The rolls will still be delicious and moist.
Is xanthan gum necessary in the gluten-free flour blend?
Yes, xanthan gum helps provide structure and elasticity to gluten-free dough, so using a flour blend with xanthan gum included is ideal. If your blend doesn’t have it, simply add 1 teaspoon to the dry ingredients.
Can I use a gluten-free flour blend without yeast?
This recipe relies on yeast for that classic fluffy texture, so yeast is important here. However, if you prefer a yeast-free alternative, you’d need a completely different recipe design using baking powder or soda as leavening.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should puff up visibly and may become slightly domed or soft to the touch, but it will not double in size like traditional wheat dough. The goal is a light expansion to encourage a tender crumb.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, doubling the ingredients works well if you want more rolls. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish or bake them in batches to allow enough space for rising and even baking.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing warm, homemade cinnamon rolls with the people you love, and now you can enjoy this comfort food without worry thanks to the BEST Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that proves gluten-free baking can be just as tasty, tender, and special. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your mornings will never be the same!
Print
BEST Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delight in these BEST Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls, a soft, fluffy, and flavorful breakfast treat made without gluten but bursting with classic cinnamon sweetness. Perfectly tender with a rich cream cheese icing, these rolls are easy to prepare and ideal for anyone seeking a delicious gluten-free indulgence.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Icing Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, as needed
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt to create a uniform base for the dough.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Create Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Beat the dough for 2 to 3 minutes to help develop the structure needed for good texture.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes, or until it becomes slightly puffy, indicating yeast activation.
- Roll Out Dough: Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick, preparing it for filling.
- Prepare Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Shape Rolls: Using the parchment paper to assist, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Slice the log into 9 equal rolls.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Preheat Oven and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22 to 26 minutes until they turn lightly golden and are set in the center.
- Make Icing: While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency perfect for icing.
- Ice and Serve: Spread the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls right after baking for the best flavor and texture before serving.
Notes
- Ensure your gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan gum for the best dough texture; if it does not, add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum to the dough ingredients.
- For dairy-free versions, substitute plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese alternatives.
