Ingredients
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls
1 16oz bag gluten-free bread flour mix (protein-enriched)
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
4 1/2 tsp instant yeast (two packets)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp kosher salt
1 1/4 cups (300g) warm water
1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, sliced (vegan butter optional)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 large egg + 1 egg white (see vegan substitute below)
Cornstarch for dusting
Cinnamon Sugar Filling
6 tbsp unsalted butter, very soft (vegan butter optional)
1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Vanilla Cream Cheese Icing
1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, room temperature (vegan optional)
4 oz cream cheese, room temperature (vegan optional)
1 1/2 cups (170g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
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In a stand mixer with the dough hook, combine the bread flour mix, sugar, instant yeast, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix briefly to combine.
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In a microwave-safe cup, warm the water with butter and vinegar for 1–2 minutes until lukewarm. Pour slowly into the dry ingredients while mixing.
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Add the egg and egg white and mix on medium-high speed for 5 minutes until smooth and slightly stretchy.
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Let the dough rest for 10 minutes while preparing your work surface. Cover it with plastic wrap and dust generously with cornstarch.
2. Roll and Fill
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Place the dough on the cornstarch bed and dust the top with more cornstarch. Press or roll into a 13×19-inch rectangle.
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Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
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Roll the dough tightly into a log. Use plastic wrap to help guide if necessary.
3. Slice and Arrange
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Trim 3-inch ends of the log for baking separately or discard. Cut remaining log into 7 equal rolls using flavorless floss.
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Line a 10-inch cast iron skillet with parchment paper. Place rolls in the skillet with about 1/2 inch between each.
4. First Rise
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Preheat the oven to the lowest setting, then turn it off. Place rolls inside for 45–60 minutes until doubled in size. For overnight prep, cover and refrigerate after rising, then bring to room temperature before baking.
5. Bake
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and springy to the touch.
6. Prepare Vanilla Cream Cheese Icing
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In a small bowl, combine butter and cream cheese. Mash until smooth.
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Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla.
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Spread over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
- Vegan Option: Replace butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives. For eggs, use a powdered egg replacer: 1 tbsp + 1 1/2 tsp of egg replacer mixed with 4 tbsp water for 1 whole egg + 1 egg white.
- Flour Choice: Use only a protein-enriched gluten-free bread mix for best results. Cup-for-cup mixes may yield mushy or sandy rolls.
- Rising Tips: A warm, draft-free area ensures the dough rises properly.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for fresh-baked softness.