Gluten-free Cinnamon Rolls: A Sweet and Healthy Delight
Are you in the mood for a warm, gooey cinnamon roll but want to avoid gluten and dairy? Look no further than this quick and easy gluten-free cinnamon roll recipe!
As a nutritionist and food blogger, I understand the importance of catering to dietary restrictions. That’s why I created this recipe using only gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients without sacrificing any of the delicious taste you crave from traditional cinnamon rolls.
These cinnamon rolls bake up perfectly fluffy with a sweet cinnamon filling that will have your taste buds thanking you. Plus, the recipe can easily be adapted for vegans or those avoiding yeast with some simple substitutions.
Let’s get started on making these irresistible gluten-free cinnamon rolls!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a quick, easy-to-make and delicious gluten-free recipe that still satisfies your sweet tooth? Then look no further! This Quick Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is the perfect choice for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. I guarantee that this gluten-free cinnamon roll will become your go-to recipe in no time.
Not only is it quick to make, but it also uses common ingredient lists you can easily find in grocery stores. This cinnamon roll recipe only requires a few simple ingredients such as cinnamon, honey, butter, water, and sugar. You won’t have to hunt down rare ingredients or spend hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is ideal for those who need to follow a gluten-free diet as it uses gluten-free flour blends. You do not have to worry about eating something that could make you feel bloated or uncomfortable after eating. Gluten-free cinnamon rolls are also a great option for those who struggle with gluten allergies.
Aside from being gluten-free, this recipe is also vegan and dairy-free friendly. Instead of using cream cheese or regular milk that may cause digestive issues, this cinnamon roll recipe uses plant-based milk and xanthan gum making it suitable for vegans and people with lactose intolerance.
The vanilla glaze tops these warm and fluffy rolls and provides the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the flavor of cinnamon. It gives an extra level of indulgence without feeling heavy or overwhelming.
These Quick Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for sharing with your family and friends on any occasion. You can serve them for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon snack with tea or coffee or as a dessert after dinner. The delicious aroma of cinnamon will fill your home as soon as you begin to bake these rolls.
In summary, whether you’re looking for a gluten-free indulgent treat or want to switch up your breakfast menu staples, this quick gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe has everything you’re looking for!
Ingredient List
For this gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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Dough:
- 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 tsp xanthan gum
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp quick-rise yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (or plant-based milk for vegan/dairy-free)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter (or vegan butter for vegan/dairy-free)
-
Filling:
- 1/2 cup softened butter (or vegan/dairy-free butter)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
-
Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk for vegan/dairy-free)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Note: For this recipe, I recommend using a good quality gluten-free flour blend like Robin Hood or Becky Excell which are easily available in your local stores. You can also make your own gluten-free flour blend by mixing equal parts of rice flour and oat flour.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve got all of our gluten-free ingredients all set up, it’s time to get started on making the actual Cinnamon Rolls. This gluten-free recipe is actually quite easy and straightforward, requiring only a few quick and easy steps.
Step 1: Make the Dough
First, proof 1 pack of instant yeast by adding 1/4 cup warm water and 1 tablespoon honey to a mixing bowl, then sprinkling the yeast over the surface. Let it sit for about five minutes until the mixture gets frothy (or activated).
In a separate large mixing bowl, sift together 2 cups of your favorite gluten-free flour blend, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum (if not already in flour blend), until well combined.
Next, add the frothy yeast mixture along with 1 tablespoon melted butter or vegan buttery spread or coconut oil or neutral flavored oil to your dry ingredients, as well as 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons canned coconut milk (at room temperature) or plain unsweetened almond milk or oat milk or goat milk or any other plant-based milk you like. Mix together until you have a soft dough ball.
Step 2: Roll Out Your Dough
Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface, then dust your rolling pin with flour too. Roll out your dough into a large rectangle roughly 16 inches x 10 inches, making sure that it’s evenly leveled throughout.
Step 3: Add Filling
In a separate small mixing bowl combine 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons softened butter or vegan buttery spread (or coconut oil), 3 tablespoon cinnamon powder and 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar, stirring to create a paste.
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the rolled out dough, taking it up to about 1/4 inch from the edge of each side.
Step 4: Roll Up Your Dough
Carefully roll up your dough starting from the longer edge until you get a nice and tight cinnamon roll log. Cut the log into 12 even pieces, using a sharp serrated knife or plain dental floss.
Step 5: Bake and Ice
Arrange cut cinnamon rolls in a large baking pan that has been lined with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 375F (190C) and let the rolls rise for another 15 minutes.
Once they have puffed up slightly, bake your rolls in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes until lightly golden brown on top and they are fully cooked through. Check them after 20 minutes just in case they need less time!
While your gluten-free cinnamon rolls are cooling down slightly, you can make a simple icing by mixing together
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to change it up and try something new with this gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe? Here are some possible substitutions and variations to consider:
– Flour Blend: You can use your preferred gluten-free flour blend instead of the one listed in the recipe. Just make sure it’s a 1-to-1 or cup-for-cup blend that contains xanthan gum, or add xanthan gum separately to help bind the dough.
– Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter and milk for vegan or dairy-free substitutes such as coconut oil, almond milk, or soy milk.
– Yeast-Free: If you don’t have any yeast on hand or want to avoid using it, you can make a no-yeast version of these cinnamon rolls by using baking powder instead. Combine 2 teaspoons of baking powder with 2 cups of flour, and adjust the liquid accordingly until you get a dough-like consistency.
– Oat Flour: For a nuttier flavor and texture, you can substitute some or all of the gluten-free flour with oat flour. Keep in mind that oat flour is not certified gluten-free unless it’s labeled as such due to cross-contamination concerns.
– Pizza Dough or Sticky Buns: Get creative and turn this cinnamon rolls recipe into something else entirely! You could use the same dough to make mini pizza crusts or pull-apart sticky buns. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly and add any toppings or fillings that you desire.
– Cream Cheese Frosting: If you’re missing the classic “Cinnabon” flavor, try making a cream cheese frosting to spread over your warm cinnamon rolls. Mix together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
Remember, substitutions and variations may affect the final outcome of your recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment, but also be prepared to make adjustments along the way depending on how things turn out. Have fun and happy baking!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your gluten-free cinnamon rolls are freshly baked and still warm, it’s time to enjoy them to the fullest! Serve them on a platter of your choice or individually, whichever you prefer. If you have any leftover frosting, drizzle it over the top and watch as it beautifully cascades down the sides of your rolls.
As for pairing, nothing beats a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the sweetness of your gluten-free cinnamon rolls. I recommend brewing a pot of light or medium roast coffee to balance out the richness of the rolls. However, if coffee isn’t your thing, opt for a lovely cup of herbal tea such as chamomile or mint to cleanse your palate between bites.
For an extra special treat, pair your gluten-free cinnamon rolls with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting. Not only does it add delicious flavor, but it also gives your rolls an elegant touch. If you prefer something lighter, try pairing your cinnamon rolls with fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries.
No matter how you decide to serve and pair these gluten-free cinnamon rolls, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or for a morning treat. So go ahead and indulge in this sweet goodness guilt-free!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about these gluten-free cinnamon rolls is that they can be made ahead of time, stored and reheated with ease! Here are some tips to help you make the most of this recipe:
– Make-Ahead: Prep the cinnamon rolls up to two days in advance, cover them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge. Once you’re ready to bake, remove the rolls from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
– Storing: Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cinnamon rolls for up to one month. Just wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then store them all together in a freezer bag.
– Reheating: To reheat the cinnamon rolls, you have a couple of options depending on your desired texture. For a soft and gooey texture, simply microwave each roll for 15-20 seconds. If you prefer a crispier texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes.
Remember that gluten-free baked goods can dry out faster than their wheat-based counterparts, so make sure to keep an eye on the cinnamon rolls as they reheat so that they don’t dry out too much. And if you have any leftovers after reheating, try using them in a fun recipe like French toast or bread pudding. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure perfect results every time, here are my tips and tricks for making the best gluten-free cinnamon rolls:
1. Use high-quality ingredients: Always use fresh and high-quality ingredients when baking. This is especially important when making gluten-free dough as it can be more delicate compared to regular dough.
2. Measure carefully: Accurate measuring of ingredients is crucial when making gluten-free baked goods. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of eyeballing your measurements.
3. Use room temperature butter and milk: When making the dough, make sure that the butter and milk are at room temperature. This ensures that the ingredients will combine better, resulting in a more consistent texture.
4. Don’t overmix the dough: Gluten-free dough is more fragile than regular wheat-based dough, so mixing it too much can lead to a tough cinnamon roll. Mix until the dough just comes together.
5. Let the dough rise: Allow enough time for the yeast to do its job by letting the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot until it has doubled in size.
6. Use parchment paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cinnamon rolls.
7. Cut cleanly: When cutting your cinnamon rolls, use a sharp knife or dental floss and make smooth, even cuts.
8. Add icing after cooling: Wait for your cinnamon rolls to cool before adding any icing or toppings. This prevents them from becoming too sticky or runny.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to making delicious gluten-free cinnamon rolls that everyone will love!
FAQ
As with any recipe, there are often questions that arise during the cooking or baking process. Here are some frequently asked questions about this quick gluten-free cinnamon roll recipe, along with answers to help guide you towards perfect results every time!
What is the secret ingredient in Cinnabon?
Cinnabon uses a special type of cinnamon called Makara, which has been trademarked and is reportedly difficult to find for purchase.
Why pour milk on cinnamon rolls before baking?
When making rolls, the liquid tends to seep into the dough, making it more succulent. Meanwhile, the fat, milk solids, and sugar in the mixture join together to create a delectable and syrupy glaze on the rolls’ underside. When the rolls are taken out of the pan, their tops become their bottoms, now coated with the sweet syrup.
Why are people adding heavy cream to cinnamon rolls?
If you want your rolls to be ultra-moist, there’s a simple trick that can do the job – the addition of heavy cream. It’s important to use the cream at room temperature and pour it over the rolls after their second rising before they are baked.
Can you substitute gluten-free flour for regular flour?
Before substituting regular flour with gluten-free flour, make sure to double-check the instructions mentioned on the package. In case of a 1:1 swap, you can substitute one cup of all-purpose flour with the same quantity of gluten-free flour. However, keep in mind that gluten-free flour blends contain stabilizers such as xantham gum, which help to maintain the structure that gluten provides.
Bottom Line
: In conclusion, this quick gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising on their health. The unique blend of gluten-free flour and natural sweeteners like honey and cinnamon makes these rolls a delicious and nutritious option for breakfast, dessert or even a snack.
Not only are these cinnamon rolls gluten-free, but they can also be customized to suit different dietary needs. With options like vegan, dairy-free, yeast-free and even no-yeast versions, this recipe has something for everyone. You can even substitute ingredients like pine nuts, cream cheese or rice flour to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
With easy-to-follow instructions, tips for perfect results, make-ahead and reheating options, this recipe makes for an amazing addition to any home chef’s toolbox. So why not give it a try today? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe is sure to elevate your baking game while keeping your taste buds happy. So go ahead and indulge guilt-free!
Quick Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free bread mix
- 2/3 cup whipping cream
- water
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200 ° Celsius.
- Mix gluten-free bread flour mix and cream lightly. You should just barely nead to get a soft dough. If it's too crumbly, add water by tablespoons until the consistency is so that you can just form a ball of dough to roll out.
- Roll the dough out between two sheets of nonstick baking paper into a rectangle as thinly as possible. I managed about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Cream together butter, honey and cinnamon.
- Gently brush the mixture on the dough, maybe using a knife or your fingers. If the mass is too solid to brush, lightly melt it in a water bath so that it becomes softer but not liquid.
- Sprinkle with chopped pine nuts.
- Carefully roll the dough into a log.
- Using a sharp knife dusted with some rice flour, cut it into 14 rolls.
- If the filling is too runny, cover the log with cling-wrap and let it settle in the fridge for some minutes, then cut into rolls.
- Place rolls on a baking tray layered with baking paper. As **Jubes** suggests, put them together close to assist rising.
- Brush the top of the rolls with milk.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until they're done.
- Enjoy!