The Ultimate Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls: A Cinnabon Copycat Recipe
Indulge in the heavenly taste of these gluten-free cinnamon rolls that are truly out-of-this-world! Crafted to mimic the beloved Cinnabon experience, these rolls deliver all the irresistible flavor and texture without any gluten. Imagine soft, tender dough, generously swirled with a rich, aromatic cinnamon filling, and crowned with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re planning a festive Christmas morning breakfast, a special weekend brunch, or simply craving a sweet treat, these easy-to-make, gluten-free wonders are guaranteed to delight everyone at your table.
Why These Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Are an Absolute Must-Try
These aren’t just any gluten-free cinnamon rolls; they are a culinary triumph designed to bring joy and comfort to any occasion. Here’s why this recipe will become your new go-to:
- The Perfect Holiday Treat: Cinnamon rolls are synonymous with special mornings, especially during the festive season. This recipe offers a stress-free solution for catering to overnight guests or family gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy a classic holiday breakfast. You can even prepare them ahead of time for a truly relaxed morning.
- Unbelievably Cinnabon-Like Flavor: Prepare to be amazed! Many gluten-free baked goods struggle to replicate the texture and richness of their gluten-containing counterparts. However, these cinnamon rolls are a genuine Cinnabon copycat, boasting the same soft, tender crumb, gooey cinnamon swirl, and irresistible aroma. While gluten-free dough naturally doesn’t rise as much as traditional dough, the flavor and melt-in-your-mouth experience are identical. The luxurious cream cheese frosting takes them over the top, making this the only cinnamon roll recipe you’ll ever need.
- Convenient Make-Ahead Option: Life gets busy, but delicious breakfasts shouldn’t be sacrificed. These gluten-free cinnamon rolls can be prepared in advance, making them an ideal choice for an easy breakfast or brunch. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For reheating, a quick 30-second warm-up in the microwave is all it takes to restore their moist, tender texture, often yielding better results than oven reheating.
- Inclusive Indulgence: Catering to diverse dietary needs can be challenging, but this recipe ensures that those with gluten sensitivities or preferences don’t miss out on a classic comfort food. They’re so good, even those who typically eat gluten won’t realize they’re gluten-free!
Can You Freeze Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls for Later Enjoyment?
Absolutely! Preparing food in advance is a fantastic way to save time and ensure you always have a delicious treat on hand. These gluten-free cinnamon rolls are perfect for freezing, and I recommend two convenient methods to preserve their freshness and flavor:
- Freezing Baked, Unfrosted Rolls: This method is ideal for ultimate flexibility. Once your cinnamon rolls are baked and cooled, but before applying any frosting, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature. Gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F / 120°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. While they are still warm, slather them with freshly prepared cream cheese frosting for that classic gooey experience.
- Freezing Fully Frosted Rolls: If you prefer the convenience of having fully prepared rolls ready to go, you can certainly freeze them completely iced. Allow the freshly frosted cinnamon rolls to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover them individually with plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. This helps protect the frosting and prevents freezer burn. To reheat, remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. For a warm treat, microwave individual rolls for about 30-60 seconds until heated through. The frosting might soften a bit, but the rolls will remain deliciously moist.
Freezing these rolls is a fantastic strategy for meal prepping breakfasts, ensuring you’re always ready for unexpected guests, or simply satisfying a sudden craving for a warm, sweet treat without having to bake from scratch every time.
Expert Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Every Time
Achieving bakery-quality gluten-free cinnamon rolls is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Temperature Control is Key: When working with yeast, precision in temperature is paramount. Ensure your warmed milk and melted butter are not too hot – they should feel comfortably warm to the touch, roughly between 110°-115°F (43°-46°C). If the liquids are too hot, they can kill the active yeast, preventing your dough from rising. Using a kitchen thermometer is highly recommended for foolproof results and vibrant, active yeast.
- Choose Your Gluten-Free Flour Wisely: Not all gluten-free flours are created equal! Different brands can behave quite differently due to varying blends of starches and gums. For optimal results with this specific recipe, we highly recommend using Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour. This blend is formulated to perform similarly to all-purpose wheat flour in many recipes, yielding the best texture and consistency for your cinnamon rolls. Deviating from this recommendation might require slight adjustments to liquid or flour quantities.
- Adjust Dough Consistency as Needed: Gluten-free dough can sometimes be a bit trickier to handle than traditional dough. If your dough appears overly sticky or difficult to manage after mixing, don’t panic. Gradually incorporate a small amount of additional gluten-free flour, starting with just one tablespoon at a time. Mix it in and assess the texture, adding more by the tablespoon until the dough becomes workable and slightly tacky, but not excessively sticky.
- Avoid Over-Baking: This is a critical step to ensure tender, moist cinnamon rolls. Gluten-free baked goods can quickly become dry and crumbly if over-baked. Keep a close eye on your rolls during the last few minutes of baking. They should be just slightly golden brown on the edges and feel set but still soft in the center. An internal temperature around 200-210°F (93-99°C) is a good indicator of doneness. When in doubt, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake for maximum tenderness.
- Perfect Your Cinnamon Filling: For the best swirl and flavor, ensure your softened butter for the filling is truly soft but not melted. This allows it to combine smoothly with the brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a spreadable mixture that adheres well to the dough.
- Don’t Skimp on the Frosting: The cream cheese frosting is arguably the best part of these cinnamon rolls! This recipe provides a generous amount, ensuring every roll is luxuriously coated. Don’t be shy when slathering it on – a good layer of frosting completes the Cinnabon experience. Remember, you can always serve extra frosting on the side for those who love an additional dollop.
Discover More Delicious Gluten-Free Recipes
If you loved these cinnamon rolls, explore our other fantastic gluten-free creations perfect for any meal or occasion:
- Gluten Free Stuffing
- Gluten Free Cornbread with Honey
- Perfectly Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken
- Gluten Free Paleo Blueberry Muffins
- Perfect Paleo Brownies (Gluten Free)
- Crispy Gluten Free Onion Rings
- Gluten Free Peanut Butter Cookies
Recipe By: Cheryl Malik
★★★★★ (4.74 from 195 votes)
Gluten-Free Cinnabon Copycat Cinnamon Rolls
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
These gluten-free cinnamon rolls are an irresistible Cinnabon copycat, boasting incredibly soft, tender dough, a delectable cinnamon swirl, and a generous topping of tangy cream cheese frosting. A truly delicious treat, free from gluten!
Cheryl Malik
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Yields: 12 cinnamon rolls
Equipment Needed
- 2 large mixing bowls
- Stand mixer with dough hook (or knead by hand)
- Medium bowl
- Fork
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup warm milk or alternative milk (almond, oat, macadamia), warmed to 110°-115°F (43°-46°C)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- ½ cup white sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled to just warm to the touch (approx. 110°-115°F / 43°-46°C)
- 2 whisked eggs
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 ½ cups Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons xanthan gum (only if your flour blend does not already contain it)
- 2 teaspoons gluten-free baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Filling
- 1 packed cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or margarine)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl for hand-kneading), add the white sugar. Pour the warm milk over the sugar and stir gently to combine. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and set it aside for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast becomes bubbly and frothy, forming a light film on the surface. This indicates the yeast is active.
- Add the cooled melted butter (ensuring it’s still warm to the touch, around 110°F/43°C) to the yeast mixture. Stir in the whisked eggs and apple cider vinegar. Incorporate the Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour, gluten-free baking powder, salt, and xanthan gum (if your chosen flour blend does not already contain it). If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and mix on medium speed for approximately 5 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and feels soft and slightly sticky, not dry. If mixing by hand, stir thoroughly with a spatula until well combined, then turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes to ensure all ingredients are smoothly incorporated.
- Lightly oil a clean large mixing bowl. Transfer the dough into this bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free spot. Allow the dough to rise for 1 hour. In cooler environments, it may take a little longer. The dough should become noticeably puffier and retain an indentation when gently poked. Note that gluten-free dough will not double in size like traditional gluten-containing dough.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened unsalted butter (or margarine). Use a fork to mix all ingredients very well until a uniform, crumbly paste forms. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat the ingredients together until smooth and spreadable.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with softened butter or cooking spray.
- Cut a piece of parchment paper to approximately 12×18 inches and lay it flat on your countertop. Carefully scrape the risen dough onto the parchment paper. Using your hands, gently press and shape the dough into a rectangular sheet, roughly 12×16 inches. It’s perfectly fine if it doesn’t cover the entire parchment sheet.
- Evenly spread the prepared cinnamon filling over the entire surface of the dough rectangle, leaving a ½-inch bare margin on one of the shorter sides (not the long side).
- Starting from the short side that is fully covered with filling, carefully begin rolling the dough tightly. Use the parchment paper to assist you; fold the first inch or so of the dough over, and then continue using the parchment to roll the dough across to the other side. It will naturally form a tight spiral.
- Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the cinnamon rolls evenly in the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The rolls will not puff up dramatically like those made with gluten, but they should become slightly fuller and achieve a light golden brown color on top. It is crucial not to overbake, as this can lead to dry rolls!
- While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the creamy, decadent frosting. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer), combine the softened butter and room-temperature cream cheese. Beat until the mixture is completely combined, smooth, and free of any lumps. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium speed until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are finished baking, remove them from the oven. Let them cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. While still warm, generously slather the tops of the rolls with the prepared cream cheese frosting. A butter knife or an offset spatula works wonderfully for spreading. Serve immediately with additional cream cheese frosting on the side for an extra indulgent touch.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Important Temperature Note: Always ensure your warmed milk and melted butter are not too hot; they should feel warm to the touch but not hot. Excessively hot liquids can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising. Use a thermometer to check temperatures before they contact the yeast for the best gluten-free cinnamon rolls!
- Flour Choice Matters: For the most consistent and delicious results, we strongly recommend using Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour. Gluten-free flour blends vary significantly between brands, and using a different type may affect the final texture and rise of your rolls.
- Xanthan Gum Guidance: If your chosen gluten-free all-purpose flour blend does not already contain xanthan gum, add 1 ½ teaspoons of xanthan gum to the mixer along with the flour blend and baking powder. (Please note: Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour, our recommended choice, already includes xanthan gum and therefore does not require this additional ingredient.)
- Managing Sticky Dough: If you find your gluten-free dough to be excessively sticky or challenging to handle, gradually incorporate small amounts of additional flour. Begin by adding just one tablespoon of flour at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough reaches a manageable, slightly tacky consistency.
- Hand Mixing Option: If you prefer to mix by hand instead of using a stand mixer, combine all dough ingredients as directed in steps 1 and 2 in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly with a sturdy spatula until well combined. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 1-2 minutes. While you won’t develop gluten (as there isn’t any), this kneading helps to fully incorporate all ingredients and achieve a smooth dough consistency.
- Frosting Abundance: This recipe yields a generous amount of cream cheese frosting because, let’s be honest, it’s often the best part! You won’t necessarily use all of it when first frosting the rolls in the baking dish. Save any leftover frosting for serving alongside or for reapplying when reheating.
- Optimal Storage & Reheating: Store leftover gluten-free cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best reheating experience, warm individual rolls in the microwave for approximately 30 seconds. Microwaving helps retain their moisture and tenderness, often surpassing the results of oven reheating.
Approximate Nutrition Information for One Serving
Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll
Calories: 536 cal
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 26 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 93 mg
Sodium: 245 mg
Potassium: 56 mg
Total Carbs: 74 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 47 g
Net Carbs: 69 g
Vitamin A: 632 IU
Vitamin C: 1 mg
Calcium: 143 mg
Iron: 2 mg
Nutrition Disclaimers:
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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