Introduction

These Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and delightfully airy—perfect for anyone avoiding gluten without sacrificing texture or flavor. Easy to make at home, they pair beautifully with soups, salads, and main dishes alike.

Two soft bread rolls are placed side by side on a white plate, one roll is torn open revealing a fluffy, light, and airy white inside, while the outer crust is golden brown and smooth. The torn bread shows layers of delicate, fibrous texture with small crumbs scattered near the base. In the background, there is a white baking dish filled with more golden-brown rolls, some grouped together with a similar soft texture. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a beige woven cloth and a soft beige fabric nearby, giving a cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups (180g) Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend (with xanthan gum)
1 tablespoon (8g) Sugar
1 teaspoon (5g) Salt
1 packet (7g) Active Dry Yeast
1 cup (240ml) Warm Milk (dairy or non-dairy, about 110-115°F / 43-46°C)
2 large Eggs
4 tablespoons (56g) Melted Butter or Vegan Butter
1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar
1 teaspoon Xanthan Gum (if your flour blend does not already contain it)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let stand for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: Add the eggs, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar to the yeast mixture. Whisk until everything is well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if needed), and salt.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Scrape down the sides as needed. The dough may look wetter than traditional dough.
Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Gently deflate the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each into a round roll and place them in the pan, leaving space between rolls.
Step 7: Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 20 minutes.
Step 8: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Step 9: Let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Brush the tops with melted butter and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum, or add it separately for the best texture.
Avoid overmixing to prevent tough rolls; mix just until ingredients are combined.
Let the dough rise in a warm spot such as a slightly heated oven (turned off) or a sunny windowsill for optimal results.
Brush the tops with melted butter before baking for rich flavor and golden color.
Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough, or sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top for a savory twist.

Storage

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze wrapped individually in plastic wrap inside a freezer bag for 2-3 months. To reheat, warm rolls wrapped in foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 15-30 seconds, taking care not to overheat.

How to Serve

Two soft, golden brown bread rolls sit closely on a simple white plate. Each roll has a shiny, smooth top crust that fades into a light, fluffy inside showing delicate layers and a slightly torn texture from being pulled apart. The plate rests on a textured cloth with more rolls visible in a white baking dish and on the white marbled surface behind, creating a cozy, fresh-from-the-oven scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls dairy-free or vegan?

Yes, substitute dairy milk with your preferred plant-based milk and use vegan butter. The recipe works well with these alternatives.

Do I really need xanthan gum?

Xanthan gum provides structure and helps mimic gluten’s texture. If your gluten-free flour blend already contains it, you don’t need to add more. Otherwise, adding xanthan gum will improve the rise and texture of the rolls.