If you’ve been craving a flaky, buttery treat but need to avoid gluten, look no further than this Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins Recipe. These delightful pastries are a heavenly hybrid of croissants and muffins, delivering layers of soft, tender dough swirled with cinnamon sugar that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re a seasoned gluten-free baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward yet incredibly rewarding, perfect for sharing at brunch or enjoying with a cozy cup of coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list simple is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture in this Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins Recipe. Each item plays an essential role—from the gluten-free flour that provides the structure, to the cinnamon sugar that gives it that irresistible finish.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum to ensure your cruffins hold together with that flaky, tender crumb we all love.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup plus 1/4 cup): Adds a touch of sweetness both in the dough and the cinnamon topping for a perfect balance.
- Baking powder (1 tablespoon): This leavening agent helps the cruffins rise beautifully, giving them just the right lift.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Cold unsalted butter (1/2 cup, cubed): Critical for creating the flaky layers that make these cruffins heavenly—cold is the secret!
- Milk (3/4 cup): Use dairy or your favorite non-dairy alternative to keep the dough moist and tender.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, comforting aroma that elevates the overall taste.
- Large egg (1): Helps bind the dough and contributes to a lovely golden color.
- Melted unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Brushed on for that rich finish before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar topping.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The star spice in the sweet cinnamon sugar coating that makes these cruffins unforgettable.
How to Make Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the gluten-free flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. These dry ingredients form the foundation of your dough, providing both lift and flavor. Next, cut the cold, cubed butter into the mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving those flaky layers unique to cruffins.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Form Dough
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, vanilla extract, and egg. Gradually stir this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix as you want to keep the dough tender and light. This blend of wet and dry creates that perfect balance of moisture and structure.
Step 3: Roll and Shape the Cruffins
Lightly flour your surface (using gluten-free flour) and roll out the dough into a rectangle. Brush the entire surface with the melted butter, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top. Roll the dough tightly into a log, just like a cinnamon roll, and slice it into 8 to 10 equal pieces. This rolling and slicing will give your cruffins their signature layers and swirl.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the cruffins cut-side up on a lined or greased baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to avoid over-browning. The result is a gorgeous, flaky, and aromatic pastry that’s hard to resist!
How to Serve Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins Recipe
Garnishes
While these cruffins are absolutely stunning on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a delicate sweetness and charm. For an extra special touch, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries also complement the cinnamon flavor beautifully, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Cruffins pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate for a cozy snack or breakfast. For a more substantial brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad, scrambled eggs, or a light yogurt parfait. The delicate layers and cinnamon notes of the cruffins make them a versatile treat for any table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can serve the cruffins in individual ramekins lined with parchment paper to hold their shape perfectly. Alternatively, slice them in half and add a smear of fruit jam or cream cheese for a creative sandwich-style bite. Arranging a plate with assorted cruffins alongside jams, nut butters, and sliced cheeses encourages guests to mix and match flavors for a memorable experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover cruffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the exterior crisp while maintaining the soft, tender interior. If your home is particularly warm or humid, refrigeration is okay but be sure to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
Want to keep the magic of this Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins Recipe on hand? Wrap individual cruffins tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They freeze well for up to one month. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To restore that fresh-baked taste and flaky texture, reheat cruffins in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make gluten-free pastries gummy. The gentle oven heat refreshes the buttery layers and crisp edges beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use any gluten-free flour blend for this recipe?
Yes, but look for a blend that contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to ensure your cruffins hold together well and have a nice texture. If your flour doesn’t include xanthan gum, consider adding about 1 teaspoon to the dry ingredients.
Is it necessary to use cold butter?
Absolutely! Cold butter is key for creating flaky layers. When cold butter melts in the oven, it releases steam that lifts the dough and forms those delicate pockets of flakiness that make cruffins so irresistible.
Can I substitute dairy-free milk and butter?
Yes, this recipe is very adaptable. Use your favorite non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or soy milk and substitute with a vegan butter that performs well in baking. The texture will remain tender and delicious.
How can I tell when the cruffins are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top and around the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. The aroma will also be a great indicator—your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Can I add fillings like chocolate or fruit inside?
You certainly can! Simply add a thin layer of chocolate chips, jam, or fruit preserves before rolling the dough. Be cautious not to overfill, so your cruffins keep their shape and bake evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins Recipe is such a joy to make and an absolute treat to share. It brings together the best qualities of croissants and muffins in a simple, approachable way without compromising on flavor or texture. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—once you experience that flaky, buttery swirl of cinnamon-sugar goodness, it might just become your new favorite gluten-free indulgence!
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Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Gluten-Free Cruffins combine the flaky, buttery layers of croissants with the tender crumb of muffins, all without gluten. These homemade cruffins are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, featuring a cinnamon-sugar coating that adds a delightful crunch and warmth. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, this recipe is ideal for those following a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum if not included)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Topping Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate small bowl, whisk the milk, vanilla extract, and egg together. Gradually stir this liquid mixture into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Roll and Shape the Cruffins: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle. Brush the surface evenly with the melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape, then slice the log into 8 to 10 equal pieces.
- Bake the Cruffins: Place the cut pieces upright in a greased muffin tin or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the cruffins are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum included for best results, or add xanthan gum separately if needed.
- For dairy-free options, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Roll dough tightly to ensure flakey layers and a good rise.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with your favorite glaze or jam.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
