Soft & Fluffy Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls (Easy Recipe!)

Nothing beats the aroma of warm, freshly baked cinnamon rolls! These gluten-free cinnamon rolls are soft, gooey, and packed with sweet cinnamon flavor. With a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy weekend treat.

Unlike many gluten-free recipes that result in dry or crumbly rolls, this version stays soft and fluffy, thanks to a carefully balanced flour blend and a rich, buttery filling.

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Soft & Gooey: These rolls have a pillowy texture, not dense or dry.
✅ No Gritty Texture: A perfect gluten-free flour blend ensures a smooth bite.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
✅ Tastes Like Classic Cinnamon Rolls: No one will believe they’re gluten-free!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1 egg, room temperature
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour and salt.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for about 2 minutes. It should be soft and slightly sticky.

2. Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.

3. Make the Cinnamon Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture.

4. Shape & Cut the Rolls

1. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
2. Tightly roll from the long side to form a log.
3. Slice into 8-10 rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.

5. Second Rise & Bake

1. Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Make the Frosting & Serve

1. Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, then mix until creamy.
3. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

✔️ Use a good gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for elasticity.
✔️ Warm milk helps yeast activate properly—don’t overheat!
✔️ Don’t skip the second rise for the fluffiest rolls.
✔️ For overnight prep: Cover shaped rolls and refrigerate. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

More Gluten-Free Treats to Try

🍪 Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
🧁 Fluffy Gluten-Free Cupcakes
🥞 The Best Gluten-Free Pancakes

Final Thoughts

These gluten-free cinnamon rolls are soft, sweet, and simply irresistible! Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or a holiday breakfast, they’ll be a hit with everyone—gluten-free or not!

📌 Save this recipe & share your baking success in the comments! 🍽️✨