Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls: Soft & Healthy Recipe Made Easy

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

If you’re deciding to get healthy, here’s one powerful piece of advice: you don’t need to give up the foods you love — you just need to get smart. Swap the bad ingredients for wholesome, healthy alternatives and you’ll still enjoy every bite, guilt-free. That’s exactly what we learned when we developed our gluten free cinnamon rolls recipe: it’s possible to eat deliciously and stay on track with your goals.

At StayFit Recipes, we believe in real food, real results, and real people. We’re The DODOs — Kiko & Med. A couple of years ago, we made a deal to transform our health in 100 days. Back then, cinnamon rolls were off-limits because of all the refined flour, sugar, and unhealthy fats. But we didn’t want to feel deprived. So we took Kiko’s passion for breakfast and baked a better version — gluten free, optionally egg and dairy free, and just as warm, soft, and sweet as the originals.

Our first attempt was messy (spoiler: the dough stuck everywhere), but every try taught us what makes gluten free cinnamon rolls soft, flavorful, and easy to roll. Now it’s one of our go-to healthy breakfast recipes, and readers love that you can find more ideas in our breakfast category and even snacks to pair with your morning coffee.

Whether you’re avoiding gluten for health reasons or just want to bake a healthier treat for your family, these gluten free cinnamon rolls won’t disappoint. Stick with this guide to learn our foolproof method, pro tips, and how to store and freeze them for later.

Now, let’s talk ingredients and the smart swaps that make all the difference.

Ingredients & Alternatives: How to Make Smart Swaps Without Sacrificing Taste

Baking gluten free cinnamon rolls at home is one of the best ways to enjoy a comforting treat while staying true to your health goals. With our easy recipe, you can make soft, fluffy, and flavorful gluten free cinnamon rolls every single time. Below you’ll find the exact ingredients and clear, step-by-step instructions for perfect results.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls

To make these amazing gluten free cinnamon rolls, start with the yeast and milk mixture. Combine 1 ¼ cups (264 grams) of milk — regular or non-dairy works — with 1 tablespoon of fast-acting yeast and 1 tablespoon of organic cane sugar. Let this sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

For the yeast and milk mixture:

• 1 ¼ cups (264 grams) milk (regular or non-dairy)
• 1 tablespoon fast-acting yeast
• 2 teaspoons agave syrup

For the dough:

• 1 ¾ cups (286 grams) gluten free all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (88 grams) potato starch
• ½ cup (75 grams) Expandex
• ⅓ cup (72 grams) avocado oil
• 3 tablespoons agave syrup
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons xanthan or guar gum
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs or 3 ounces applesauce

For the filling:

• 4 tablespoons softened butter or vegan butter
• ½ cup agave syrup
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the pan:

• 4 tablespoons milk or cream
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

How to Make Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls Step by Step

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls with Agave

Start by preheating your oven to 200°F and brushing your baking pan with 2 tablespoons melted butter.

Warm the milk just until lukewarm, then stir in the yeast and 2 teaspoons agave syrup. Set this aside for about 5–10 minutes to foam. This step ensures your yeast is active and will help your gluten free cinnamon rolls rise properly.

While the yeast activates, place the flour, potato starch, Expandex, baking powder, xanthan gum, and salt into the bowl of your stand mixer. Add the avocado oil, eggs (or applesauce), and 3 tablespoons of agave syrup to the bowl. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, pour it in as well.

Using the paddle attachment, mix on low to medium speed at first, then increase to high for about 1 minute. You should have a sticky, smooth dough — this is normal for gluten free cinnamon rolls.

On a lightly oiled piece of parchment, turn out the dough. Spray your hands with oil and gently press the dough into a rectangle about 14 by 12 inches.

Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving about half an inch around the edges. Drizzle the agave syrup evenly across the surface, then sprinkle with the ground cinnamon.

Using the parchment to guide you, roll the dough tightly into a log, seam-side down. If needed, sprinkle a little potato starch on your hands to handle the dough more easily. Use a ruler to mark every 1 ½ inches and cut into 9 even rolls.

Arrange the rolls in your prepared pan, spacing them evenly. Brush the tops with 2 tablespoons of milk or cream. Cover with a towel and place in the warm oven (turned off) to rise for about 35–40 minutes.

Remove the pan, preheat your oven to 375°F, and brush the rolls with the remaining milk or cream. Bake your gluten free cinnamon rolls for 18–19 minutes if you like a gooey center or 20–22 minutes for firmer rolls.

Essential Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll Ingredients You’ll Need

Start by gathering everything you need so the process is smooth. For the yeast mixture, you’ll use warm milk — dairy or non-dairy both work — with instant yeast and a little sugar to feed it. The dough relies on a gluten free flour blend (we prefer King Arthur’s Measure for Measure), potato starch, Expandex for elasticity, organic cane sugar, avocado oil, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, and two eggs.

If you’ve never baked gluten free before, don’t worry. Combining flours and starches properly is what gives these gluten free cinnamon rolls their signature soft bite. You can also find more inspiration for healthier baked goods in our healthy baking section.

The filling is classic: softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. To finish, we like a drizzle of cream cheese frosting, but you can skip it or use a vegan version.

Here’s the full table of ingredients for easy reference:

Ingredient	Amount
Gluten free flour blend	1 ¾ cups
Potato starch	½ cup
Expandex	½ cup
Avocado oil	⅓ cup

Egg-Free and Dairy-Free Modifications That Actually Work

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. If you’re avoiding eggs, simply substitute 3 ounces of applesauce for the two eggs — it keeps the dough moist and soft. For dairy-free, just use unsweetened almond milk and vegan butter wherever milk or butter is called for.

We’ve even tested this recipe side-by-side with these swaps and found that the flavor and texture of these gluten free cinnamon rolls hold up beautifully.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls That Are Soft and Delicious

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make the best gluten free cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tasted. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have warm, fluffy rolls ready to serve.

Preparing the Yeast and Mixing the Dough Properly

Start by warming your milk to about 110°F — warm enough to activate the yeast but not too hot. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, instant yeast, and a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it starts to foam. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to help your gluten free cinnamon rolls rise.

While the yeast is proofing, combine your dry ingredients: gluten free flour blend, potato starch, Expandex, cane sugar, baking powder, xanthan gum, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until everything is evenly distributed.

Next, add the eggs (or applesauce for egg-free), avocado oil, and the foamy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky. Don’t worry — gluten free dough won’t feel exactly like wheat dough, and it’s supposed to be softer.

Sprinkle a little extra flour on a piece of parchment paper, then turn your dough onto it and gently pat it into a rectangle. Keeping it slightly sticky helps these gluten free cinnamon rolls stay soft when baked.

Rolling, Filling, and Baking to Perfection

Now spread softened butter evenly over the surface of your dough rectangle. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it generously over the buttered dough.

Using the parchment paper to help, carefully roll the dough into a log. Don’t press too hard — just keep it tight enough to hold its shape. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 8–10 even rolls.

Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one so they can expand. Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for 30–40 minutes. Yes, even gluten free cinnamon rolls need time to rise — and this step makes them extra soft.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once risen, bake the rolls for about 25–30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and smell irresistible. If you’d like, brush the tops with melted butter halfway through for even more flavor.

You can top them with cream cheese frosting or leave them as-is for a slightly lighter option. Either way, you’ll have a tray of warm, comforting gluten free cinnamon rolls perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls Every Time

Making gluten free cinnamon rolls that are soft, fluffy, and full of flavor isn’t hard — but there are a few smart tricks we’ve learned along the way. If you’ve ever baked gluten free and ended up with dense or dry results, these tips will help you fix that for good.

The Secret Techniques for Soft, Fluffy Results

The number one secret to soft gluten free cinnamon rolls is hydration. Gluten free flours are more absorbent than wheat flour, so keeping the dough slightly sticky is key. Don’t be tempted to add too much extra flour when rolling it out — it’s supposed to feel a little tacky.

Another tip: give your dough time to rise. Many people think gluten free dough doesn’t rise, but that’s not true. As long as your yeast is active and your environment is warm enough (around 75–80°F), the rolls will puff up beautifully.

We also recommend brushing the tops with a little melted butter before baking. This keeps them moist and adds a rich, golden color.

Finally, bake just until they’re golden brown. Overbaking is one of the most common mistakes and leads to hard rolls. Use a toothpick to check the center roll — it should come out clean, and the rolls should feel springy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Texture and Flavor

One common mistake is skipping the proofing step. Even though gluten free dough won’t double in size the same way wheat dough does, it still needs time for the yeast to work its magic and create a light texture. Be patient — it’s worth the wait.

Another pitfall: using the wrong flour blend. Not all gluten free blends are equal. We’ve had the best results with King Arthur’s Measure for Measure or similar high-quality blends. Cheap or unbalanced blends can result in gritty or crumbly rolls.

Finally, don’t skip the xanthan or guar gum. These ingredients help mimic the elasticity that gluten provides. Leaving them out will make your rolls fall apart.

Storing and Freezing Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls the Right Way

One of the best things about these gluten free cinnamon rolls is that they’re just as good the next day — if you store them properly. Whether you’re making a big batch ahead of time or saving leftovers, these simple tips will keep your rolls soft and satisfying.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat Without Drying Them Out

Gluten free baked goods tend to dry out faster than their wheat-based counterparts. To prevent that, let your cinnamon rolls cool completely after baking, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days.

If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to five days. Before serving, warm them gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This brings back the soft, fluffy texture and makes the cinnamon filling gooey again.

For more reheating ideas and tips, you can also check our snacks category — many of our healthy treats are freezer-friendly too.

How to Freeze and Enjoy Later

If you want to save a batch for another week, freezing your gluten free cinnamon rolls is a great option. Once baked and cooled, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour, then warm them in the oven or microwave as above. Freezing works especially well if you like having healthy breakfast options ready on busy mornings — just like our breakfast recipes that make meal prep a breeze.

Proper storage and gentle reheating keep your gluten free cinnamon rolls tasting just as fresh as the day you made them. Next, let’s answer some of the most common questions we get about making, baking, and enjoying these rolls.

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FAQs About Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls

We get a lot of questions about making and baking gluten free cinnamon rolls. Here are clear answers to the most common ones, so you can feel confident every time you make them.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Have Soft, Delicious Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls

Getting healthy doesn’t mean giving up comfort foods — it just means making smarter choices. These gluten free cinnamon rolls prove you can enjoy every warm, gooey bite while sticking to your goals. With the right flour mix, a little patience, and our tested method, you’ll bake rolls that are soft, flavorful, and just as satisfying as the originals.

Whether you make them egg-free, dairy-free, or as written, you’ll have a tray of cinnamon rolls that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. For more wholesome ideas like this, visit our healthy baking or breakfast sections.

Happy baking — and remember, the best way to stay on track is to make healthy eating enjoyable

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