Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
Gluten free cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. These rolls are fluffy, sweet, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor, making them the perfect breakfast or snack. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll find yourself indulging in this delicious comfort food without any gluten worries.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls

These gluten free cinnamon rolls offer various benefits that make them a favorite among many. First, they are incredibly soft and fluffy, resembling traditional cinnamon rolls even without gluten. The warm blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a rich, comforting filling that makes your taste buds dance. Plus, they are easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Whether you are gluten intolerant or simply want to enjoy a healthier dessert option, these cinnamon rolls deliver on flavor and texture. They’re also great for sharing with friends and family, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious homemade treat!
How to Make Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
- 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, see notes)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 Tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/3 cup butter or vegan butter (extremely soft)
- 2 Tablespoons butter or vegan butter (for icing)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1-1/2 Tablespoons hot water
Step-by-Step Instructions:

- Read the entire post before making the rolls for better understanding and to avoid any mistakes.
- In a large glass bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Add milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar, then microwave for an additional 45-50 seconds. Stir with a spatula and check the temperature using an instant-read thermometer; the target is 110 degrees.
- Sprinkle in the yeast and stir gently. Allow it to sit for about 8 minutes until foamy. (If your mixture does not foam, your yeast may be old, or the milk mixture was too cool or too warm.)
- Add the whisked egg and the remaining 1/3 cup sugar, stirring gently to combine.
- In another bowl, mix the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, and salt using a fork. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in two batches. Stir until the flour is just incorporated; some small lumps are okay. The dough should be soft but not overly sticky, similar to sugar cookie dough.
- Cover the bowl with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in volume, about 1 hour. You can use your oven’s “bread proof” setting or any warm, sunny spot.
- While the dough is rising, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for filling.
- Spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick spray and set aside.
- Once risen, transfer the dough to a large sheet of parchment paper lightly sprayed with nonstick spray. Using oiled hands, spread the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, roughly 10×14 inches. Be cautious not to press it too thin.
- Gently spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1-inch strip at the bottom clear. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, avoiding the clear strip.
- Using the parchment paper, roll the dough from the top down towards you, creating a log. Pinch the seams together lightly.
- Slice the log into quarters with a sharp knife in a single slicing motion without sawing at the dough. Clean the knife between cuts as needed and dip it in flour blend to prevent sticking. Slice each quarter into thirds for a total of 12 rolls, and arrange them in the prepared pie plate.
- Place the rolls in a warm spot to rise again until puffy, about 30-40 minutes. During the last 10 minutes of rising time, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- Bake the rolls for 16-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top, rotating the pan halfway through baking.
- Allow the rolls to cool for 15 minutes before making the icing. If you ice them while too hot, they will absorb the icing.
- To make the icing, combine the 2 tablespoons of butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and hot water in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Spoon the icing over the cooled rolls and serve. These rolls are best enjoyed the day they are made, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the microwave for 20-25 seconds uncovered.
How to Serve Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
Serving gluten free cinnamon rolls is a delightful experience for your family or guests. You can serve them fresh out of the oven, drizzled with icing, for an irresistible treat. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or brunch. For special occasions, you can add fresh fruits such as berries or banana slices on the side.
Offering a scoop of vanilla ice cream with these rolls can also create a delightful dessert experience. The possibilities are endless, and everyone will love indulging in these scrumptious rolls.
How to Store Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
To maintain their freshness, store any leftover gluten free cinnamon rolls in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. If you would like to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will last about a week. To reheat, microwave the rolls uncovered for 20-25 seconds, ensuring they stay soft and delicious.
For those who prefer frozen treats, these rolls can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat from frozen in the microwave, allowing a little extra time.
Tips to Make Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls Perfect
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for a good gluten free flour blend with a binder, like xanthan gum, for the best texture.
- Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising of the dough.
- Temperature Matters: For yeast activation, monitor the temperature of the milk and butter mixture closely.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Gently incorporate the flour until just combined, as overworking can lead to dense rolls.
- Rise in Warmth: A warm environment is crucial for rising; if your kitchen is chilly, consider using the oven’s bread proofing feature.

Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
For the dough
- 1/4 cup butter or vegan butter
- 1 cup milk see notes
- 1/3 cup 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, see notes
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
For the filling and icing
- 1/3 cup butter or vegan butter extremely soft
- 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter for icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 1/2 tablespoons hot water
Instructions
Preparation
- Read the entire post before making the rolls for better understanding and to avoid any mistakes.
- In a large glass bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Add milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar, then microwave for an additional 45-50 seconds.
- Stir with a spatula and check the temperature using an instant-read thermometer; the target is 110 degrees.
- Sprinkle in the yeast and stir gently. Allow it to sit for about 8 minutes until foamy.
- (If your mixture does not foam, your yeast may be old, or the milk mixture was too cool or too warm.)
- Add the whisked egg and the remaining 1/3 cup sugar, stirring gently to combine.
- In another bowl, mix the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, and salt using a fork.
- Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in two batches, stirring until just incorporated; some small lumps are okay.
- Cover the bowl with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in volume, about 1 hour.
- While the dough is rising, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for filling.
Baking
- Spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick spray and set aside.
- Once risen, transfer the dough to a large sheet of parchment paper lightly sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Using oiled hands, spread the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Gently spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1-inch strip at the bottom clear.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, avoiding the clear strip.
- Using the parchment paper, roll the dough from the top down towards you, creating a log. Pinch the seams together lightly.
- Slice the log into quarters with a sharp knife in a single slicing motion, then slice each quarter into thirds for a total of 12 rolls.
- Arrange them in the prepared pie plate.
- Place the rolls in a warm spot to rise again until puffy, about 30-40 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes of rising time, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- Bake the rolls for 16-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top, rotating the pan halfway through baking.
- Allow the rolls to cool for 15 minutes before making the icing.
- To make the icing, combine the 2 tablespoons of butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and hot water in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth and spoon the icing over the cooled rolls.
Notes
Flavor Variations
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an added crunch.
- Fruity Twist: Mix dried fruits like raisins or cranberries through the filling to introduce a fruity flavor.
- Maple Icing: Swap the vanilla icing for a maple syrup glaze for a delicious twist to your rolls.
- Chocolate Chip: Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips in the filling for a sweet surprise.
Pro Tips for Success
- Grease Your Tools: Lightly grease your hands and work surfaces to handle the sticky dough easily.
- Parchment Paper: Use parchment paper to roll and slice the dough, making the process much easier.
- Keep Warm: If your dough doesn’t seem to rise, ensure it’s in a consistently warm part of your home; the oven with just the light on works great.
FAQs About Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
Can I use almond flour instead of gluten free baking flour blend?
Almond flour alone may not provide the same texture as a gluten free blend with a binder. It’s best to stick with a recommended gluten free flour blend, as it incorporates vital ingredients for proper structure.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, simply substitute dairy butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) instead of regular milk.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the rolls up to the first rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
Final Thoughts
Gluten free cinnamon rolls are not just a delicious treat; they are a recipe that everyone can delight in. The fluffiness and rich flavors guarantee satisfaction in every bite. Whether you are baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Embrace the joy of making these delightful rolls, and enjoy a warm, comforting experience with each batch!
