Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of spices and real pumpkin in every bite. Perfect for holiday breakfasts or cozy gatherings, these rolls are topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that adds an extra layer of indulgence. Enjoy their gooey texture and rich flavors, making them a standout choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Made with gluten-free flours, these rolls cater to those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family brunch or holiday gathering, these cinnamon rolls will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
• Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, baking these delicious rolls is approachable for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Gooey Cream Cheese Glaze: This decadent topping elevates the rolls, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the following tools and prepare your workspace.

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 (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These help mix the dough thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined without much effort.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness before adding the filling.

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 tablespoons 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 Your 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’s just messier but works great!

Step 2: Make the Filling Mix

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

Step 3: Activate Yeast

Warm the milk in a small pot to between 105°F–115°F. Transfer to a wide bowl and mix in 1 teaspoon of sugar. Slowly sprinkle the yeast over warm milk and mix completely. Let set aside for 10 minutes while the yeast activates.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 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 a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or using a hand mixer in a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, melted butter, remaining sugar, light brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Add egg and egg white; mix until incorporated. Then add yeast mixture.

Step 6: Add Dry to Wet Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, slowly add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Switch to dough hook; knead on low for one minute. Let rest for one minute before kneading again two more times.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Using hands covered in tapioca starch or a spoon coated in tapioca starch, scrape dough onto a floured surface with tapioca starch. Roll out into an 11×16 rectangle.

Step 8: Fill Dough

Brush dough with four tablespoons of filling butter while reserving half tablespoon for brushing on top. Sprinkle prepared filling evenly over surface.

Step 9: Roll Up Dough

Starting from long edge tightly roll up dough into a spiral shape using a bench scraper if needed to avoid sticking.

Step 10: Cut Rolls

Use unflavored dental floss or serrated knife to cut log into nine equal pieces about 1.75 inches long. Place cut rolls face up in prepared pan; brush tops with remaining butter.

Step 11: Rise Dough

Cover pan with plastic wrap; let rise in warm place for about 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 12: Bake Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F if you chilled your rolls overnight; allow them to sit at room temperature for about half an hour before baking. Bake rolls for about 40–45 minutes until firm to touch.

Step 13: Prepare Glaze

While rolls bake prepare glaze by mixing cream cheese and powdered sugar in stand mixer until combined; add milk until desired consistency is reached.

Step 14: Serve Warm

Once baked cover rolls generously with icing while still warm! Enjoy immediately as they are best fresh from the oven! Reheat leftover buns at 375°F for about five–ten minutes or microwave them briefly.

Enjoy your homemade Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These delightful cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Here are some creative ways to serve your Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

With a Cream Cheese Glaze

• Drizzle a generous amount of cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls for added sweetness and richness.

Accompanied by Coffee

• Pair these rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced latte to enhance their warm flavors.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture that complements the soft rolls.

Served Warm

• Always serve these cinnamon rolls warm. Reheat them slightly in the oven or microwave if they have cooled down.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent treat, making it feel more like dessert.

How to Perfect Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Check the expiration date on your active dry yeast. Fresh yeast ensures proper rising and fluffy rolls.

• Measure Accurately: Weigh your ingredients if possible. Accurate measurements prevent dough inconsistencies and help achieve the desired texture.

• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s just sticky enough to hold its shape but not too wet. This balance is crucial for achieving soft rolls.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven reaches the correct temperature. Baking at the right temperature helps create that perfect rise and texture.

• Let Them Rise: Be patient during the rising process. Allowing enough time for the dough to rise leads to fluffy cinnamon rolls.

• Serve Immediately: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture. If you need to store them, keep them covered and reheat before serving.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy, crunchy complement that balances sweetness.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and savory flavor, making it a well-rounded breakfast option.

4. Bacon or Sausage Links: Crispy bacon or savory sausage links introduce a salty component that pairs well with sweet cinnamon rolls.

5. Chai Tea: The spiced warmth of chai tea enhances the autumnal flavors in the pumpkin cinnamon rolls beautifully.

6. Maple Syrup Drizzle: Offering maple syrup on the side allows guests to drizzle additional sweetness over their rolls as desired.

7. Hot Chocolate: A cup of rich hot chocolate makes for a cozy pairing, especially on chilly mornings.

8. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses adds a savory touch that complements both sweet and spiced notes in your roll.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Incorrect Yeast Temperature: Using milk that is too hot can kill the yeast. Always ensure the milk is between 105-115°F for proper activation.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your pan may cause the rolls to stick. Use parchment paper and butter it well for easy removal.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Gluten-free baking requires precise measurements. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly to ensure success.
• Ignoring Dough Texture: If your dough is too sticky, it won’t rise properly. Add tapioca starch gradually until it holds its shape but remains soft.
• Underbaking or Overbaking: Baking times can vary by oven. Check the rolls towards the end of baking to avoid drying them out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each roll for about 45 seconds on high for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make gluten-free pumpkin cinnamon rolls rise?

To help your Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls rise, ensure your yeast is fresh and activated properly.

Can I use different flours in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours, but keep in mind that texture may vary based on what you use.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be firm to touch and golden brown on top. A thermometer should read at least 205°F in the center.

What can I customize in this recipe?

You can add nuts, raisins, or even swap spices according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

These Super Soft Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various spices or toppings to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for holiday breakfasts or cozy weekend treats, we encourage you to try making these rolls at home!