There is something irresistibly comforting about warm, gooey cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven, and this Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe lets you enjoy that classic treat without any gluten worries. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or simply craving a soft, sweet pastry with a melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon swirl, this recipe offers a delightful twist with almond milk and a tender gluten-free dough. You’ll love how these rolls come together so easily while delivering that perfect balance of buttery richness and cinnamon spice, topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that will make every bite feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these delectable cinnamon rolls, you’ll only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a key role in ensuring your rolls are soft, flavorful, and perfectly textured.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The secret to light, fluffy dough that rises beautifully.
- Warm water 110°F (1/4 cup): Activates the yeast for that essential rise.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds just the right hint of sweetness and helps the yeast ferment.
- Unsweetened almond milk warmed (1/2 cup): Keeps the dough dairy-free yet tender and moist.
- Unsalted butter melted (1/4 cup): Enhances richness and helps the dough stay soft.
- Large egg (1): Binds the dough and adds protein for structure.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (2 1/2 cups): The base for the dough, ideally containing xanthan gum for elasticity.
- Xanthan gum (1 teaspoon, if not in flour blend): Adds stretch and chewiness that gluten typically provides.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- Brown sugar packed (1/4 cup): For a deep, caramel-like sweetness in the cinnamon filling.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The warm, aromatic star of the filling.
- Unsalted butter softened for filling (2 tablespoons): Helps create that luscious, gooey swirl inside every roll.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Forms the base of the silky cream cheese glaze.
- Cream cheese softened (2 tablespoons): Adds tangy richness to the glaze that perfectly complements the rolls.
- Milk for glaze (1 tablespoon): Thins the glaze to a drizzle-ready consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a subtle depth and warmth in the glaze.
How to Make Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Start by dissolving your active dry yeast in the warm water with a tiny pinch of sugar. This step wakes up the yeast and gets it bubbling, ensuring your dough will rise nicely. Give it about 5 to 10 minutes until it looks foamy on top—this foaming means your yeast is alive and ready to work.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the warmed almond milk, melted butter, egg, granulated sugar, salt, and xanthan gum if your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t already include it. Each element here contributes moisture, structure, and flavor—making sure your dough ends up tender but sturdy.
Step 3: Combine yeast mixture and flour
Add the foamy yeast mixture to your wet ingredients, then gradually stir in the gluten-free flour blend. Mix just until a soft dough forms. Gluten-free dough won’t look or feel exactly like traditional dough, but it should come together into a manageable ball that’s a bit sticky.
Step 4: Let the dough rise
Cover your bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it somewhere warm for 45 minutes to an hour. Unlike classic wheat dough, gluten-free dough won’t double in size, but it should become slightly puffier. This rest time develops flavor and texture.
Step 5: Shape and fill the rolls
Roll out the dough between two pieces of parchment paper into a 9×12 inch rectangle. This prevents sticking and makes rolling the dough much easier. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture. This combination is the heart of your cinnamon rolls, giving them that iconic sweet and spiced swirl.
Step 6: Roll and slice
Starting at the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log using the parchment paper to help guide it. Once rolled, slice the log into 9 equal pieces. The thickness should be just right to bake evenly and give you those beautifully soft spirals on each roll.
Step 7: Second rise
Place the rolls in a greased 9×9 inch pan, not too close but snug enough. Cover loosely and let them rise for another 20 to 30 minutes. This extra rest helps the rolls relax and puff up slightly before baking.
Step 8: Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for light golden edges with a soft top—the smell at this point is pure home-baked magic!
Step 9: Make the glaze and finish
While the rolls bake, mix the powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once the rolls have cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. This finishing touch adds a delightful tang and decadence that complements the warm cinnamon spices perfectly.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Although the cream cheese glaze is the star topping, you can get creative by sprinkling chopped toasted pecans, slivered almonds, or even a few chocolate chips on top. These additions bring texture and surprising bursts of flavor that make each bite a little more special.
Side Dishes
For a balanced breakfast or brunch, serve these rolls alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a side of scrambled eggs adds protein, making your meal both indulgent and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a colorful kitchen towel for a warm, inviting presentation that’s perfect for breakfast gatherings. You can also place each roll in a small ramekin or cupcake liner for individual servings that feel extra charming and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These gluten-free cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain moisture and softness without drying out the dough.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these rolls beyond a couple of days, freeze them before glazing to preserve freshness. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months and thaw beautifully overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat your cinnamon rolls gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This will warm them through without drying them out, and if you froze them, drizzle with glaze after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! While unsweetened almond milk adds a subtle flavor and keeps this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute with other plant-based milks like oat or soy, or regular cow’s milk if you’re not avoiding dairy. Just make sure it’s warmed to about 110°F for best yeast activation.
Do I have to add xanthan gum?
If your gluten-free flour blend already contains xanthan gum or another binder, you can skip adding extra. If it doesn’t, adding 1 teaspoon helps give the rolls structure and elasticity similar to traditional dough, improving texture and rise.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
With some ingredient swaps, yes! Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg, use vegan butter, and make sure your milk choice is plant-based. For the glaze, omit cream cheese or use a vegan cream cheese alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Why don’t the rolls rise as much as traditional cinnamon rolls?
Gluten-free dough behaves differently because it lacks gluten’s stretchy network. The yeast still helps the dough rise, but you’ll notice a gentler puff rather than a dramatic doubling in size — this is perfectly normal for gluten-free baking.
Can I add other spices to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even ground ginger alongside the cinnamon for a more complex, warming flavor profile. These spices complement the cinnamon beautifully and elevate the classic filling.
Final Thoughts
Making these Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug of comfort and sweetness, all while keeping things safe and satisfying for gluten-free needs. They’re a fantastic way to start your morning or treat yourself any time you crave something cozy and homemade. I absolutely encourage you to try baking these rolls—they’re easier than you think, and the irresistible aroma and flavor will make them your new favorite indulgence.
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Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9 rolls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these soft, fluffy Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls made with a tender almond milk dough and a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are topped with a creamy cream cheese glaze that adds the ideal balance of sweetness and tang. This recipe ensures everyone can enjoy this classic treat without gluten, using a homemade dough that rises beautifully and bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (if not included in flour blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the warm almond milk, melted butter, egg, granulated sugar, salt, and xanthan gum if your flour blend does not already contain it. Add the foamy yeast mixture and gradually incorporate the gluten-free flour blend until a soft dough forms.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Place the dough in a warm area and let it rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour until slightly puffy but not necessarily doubled in size.
- Roll Dough: Transfer the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out into a 9×12 inch rectangle. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to handle.
- Add Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled dough. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle the mixture over the buttered surface.
- Form Rolls: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 9 equal rolls.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for another 20 to 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn lightly golden on top and cooked through.
- Prepare Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze and Serve: Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly after baking, then drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure your gluten-free flour blend contains a binder like xanthan gum or guar gum for best dough elasticity and texture.
- For a deeper spice flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar filling.
- These rolls are best eaten fresh on the day of baking but can be gently reheated in the oven or microwave to refresh.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
