Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat for any occasion! With their warm spices and creamy glaze, they are perfect for holiday breakfasts or cozy weekend mornings. These rolls boast a rich pumpkin flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon, making them a standout addition to your fall baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Gluten-Free Option: Enjoy these cinnamon rolls without gluten, making them suitable for friends and family with dietary restrictions.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a weekend brunch, these rolls bring joy to the table.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these gooey treats without hassle.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different glazes or toppings to make them uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. This will help ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• 8×8 baking pan
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Bench scraper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes combining ingredients easier and ensures a smooth dough texture.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly for optimal filling distribution.
• Bench scraper: A helpful tool for cutting the dough without sticking, ensuring neat rolls.

Ingredients

These soft and gooey gluten-free pumpkin cinnamon rolls are loaded with warm spices and real pumpkin. Topped with a gooey cream cheese glaze, these cinnamon buns are perfect for your holiday breakfast!

• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (divided)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 ¼-ounce package – not instant)
• 1 cup Bob’s Red Mill tapioca flour
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons gluten-free oat flour
• 1 cup + 1 tablespoon millet flour
• ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons sweet rice flour
• 2 teaspoons xanthan gum
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¾ cup + 3 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling, and not organic)
• 4½ tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg white
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted cooled and divided)
• ½ cup packed dark or light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 oz full-fat cream cheese (blocked) (room temperature)
• 1½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1-1½ tablespoons whole milk

How to Make Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

First prepare an 8×8 pan by lining it with parchment paper and buttering the paper with 1/2 tablespoon of the filling butter. Alternatively, skip the parchment paper and butter the pan directly; it works great!

Step 2: Make the Filling

Prepare the cinnamon nutmeg sugar filling. Combine the light brown sugar, cane sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk in a small pot to between 105–115°F. Transfer it to a wide bowl, mix in 1 teaspoon of sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the tapioca starch, oat flour, millet flour, sweet rice flour, xanthan gum, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), combine the pumpkin puree, melted butter, remaining sugar types, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Form the Dough

With the mixer on low speed, gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until fully mixed. Switch to a dough hook; knead on low for about four minutes total with rests in between.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Using tapioca starch-covered hands or spoon, transfer dough onto a well-floured surface. Roll out into an 11×16 rectangle.

Step 8: Add Filling

Brush dough with melted filling butter and sprinkle cinnamon nutmeg sugar filling evenly over its surface.

Step 9: Shape Rolls

Starting from one long edge of the rectangle, tightly roll up dough into a spiral. Use additional tapioca starch as needed while rolling if it sticks.

Step 10: Cut Rolls

Flatten edges slightly then cut log into nine equal pieces using unflavored dental floss or serrated knife for clean cuts. Place cut rolls face up in prepared pan.

Step 11: Rise Rolls

Brush tops with remaining butter. Cover pan with plastic wrap; let rise in warm place for about 1.5 hours until doubled in size (or refrigerate overnight).

Step 12: Bake Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F if using refrigerated dough; allow it to sit at room temperature for about half an hour first. Bake rolls for approximately 40–45 minutes until firm to touch.

Step 13: Prepare Glaze

While baking, mix cream cheese with powdered sugar using stand mixer until combined; add milk gradually until desired consistency is achieved.

Step 14: Serve Warm

Once baked, cover rolls generously with icing while still warm. For best results serve immediately! If there are leftovers—reheat gently before serving again!

How to Serve Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your meal experience, especially during holidays or special gatherings. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy these delicious rolls.

With a Cream Cheese Glaze

• Drizzle a generous amount of the gooey cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls for an extra sweet touch.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside sliced apples, pears, or berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon rolls.

On a Festive Breakfast Table

• Arrange your cinnamon rolls on a beautiful platter as a centerpiece for holiday brunches or family gatherings.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The warm spices in the rolls complement the flavors of various brews perfectly.

As Dessert with Ice Cream

• For an indulgent treat, serve warm cinnamon rolls topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

How to Perfect Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting your Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your rolls come out soft and delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for optimal rising and fluffiness.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour, which can lead to dense rolls.
• Warm Ingredients: Make sure your milk and other ingredients are at room temperature to help the dough rise better.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth but still slightly sticky; this helps develop the right texture.
• Allow Enough Rising Time: Be patient and let the dough rise until it has doubled in size for light and airy rolls.
• Cool Before Icing: Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before adding glaze; this prevents it from melting away completely.

Best Side Dishes for Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweetness, making it a perfect pairing.
3. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a healthy green element that contrasts nicely with rich flavors.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that enhances breakfast variety.
5. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides freshness and brightness, perfect alongside warm cinnamon rolls.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding can serve as a nutritious side, balancing indulgence with health benefits.
7. Oatmeal: Serve warm oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits for a hearty addition that keeps you full longer.
8. Herbed Potatoes: Roasted herbed potatoes deliver savory goodness that pairs well with sweet treats like cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring yeast activation: Always ensure your yeast is fresh and activated. If it doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, discard it and start with new yeast.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for gluten-free rolls. This helps improve texture and ensures they rise properly.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precise measurements are key in gluten-free baking. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cinnamon rolls that lose their gooey charm.
• Neglecting to let rolls cool slightly before icing: If you ice the rolls while they’re too hot, the glaze will melt away. Let them cool for a few minutes first.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F, place rolls on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one roll at a time for 30-45 seconds on high.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet with a lid over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use different flours in this recipe?

You can experiment with other gluten-free flours, but keep in mind that the texture may vary. Stick to gluten-free blends designed for baking when possible.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

Your rolls should feel firm to the touch, and an internal temperature of at least 205°F indicates they are fully baked.

Can I make these pumpkin cinnamon rolls vegan?

Yes! To make these rolls vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter or oil instead of dairy butter.

What can I add to customize my Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

These Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a comforting breakfast treat perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or spices to create your unique twist!