Soft Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls Recipe for Tender, Fluffy Buns

This post is sponsored by King Arthur Baking Company.

These easy, soft gluten-free dinner rolls are perfect for gatherings — from holiday dinners to simple weeknight meals. They’re straightforward to make and worth the effort for the light, fluffy results.

Using gluten-free bread flour helps the rolls achieve a tender crumb and a golden-brown crust without the density that often plagues gluten-free breads. Gluten-free doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice texture or flavor.

From Kate: “These rolls were amazing! I can’t believe how simple and delicious they were. My son has had celiac for 3 years, and he said these were the best ones I’ve made. Soft, and fluffy, I couldn’t believe it. Easy to make, too!”

200 more comments

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below are notes on the key ingredients used in these rolls. See the recipe card further down for exact measurements.

• Gluten-free flour: King Arthur Gluten-Free Bread Flour is recommended for the best rise and texture.
• Whole milk powder: Adds richness, moisture, and encourages browning. Use whole milk powder rather than nonfat for a softer crumb. For a dairy-free option, substitute coconut or soy milk powder.
• Instant yeast: Ensures a reliable rise and can be added directly to the dry mix for convenience.

• Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps the dough reach the proper consistency.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture in gluten-free doughs; they help prevent a dense result.
• Butter: Melted butter adds flavor and tenderizes the crumb. Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Easy, Soft Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

Here’s a concise overview of the process. The complete step-by-step instructions are in the recipe card below.

• Combine dry ingredients: In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, blend the gluten-free flour, milk powder, sugar, instant yeast, salt, and baking powder.
• Add wet ingredients: With the mixer on low, pour in warm water, eggs, and melted butter. Increase to medium and mix until the dough resembles thick cookie dough. Scrape the bowl and mix briefly more.

• Portion into pan: Use an oiled scoop or large spoon to divide the batter into a prepared muffin pan. Wet fingers make smoothing the tops easier.
• Cover and rise: Cover the pan with lightly oiled plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 45–60 minutes.

• Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 22–26 minutes, until the tops are golden brown.
• Finish and serve: Brush hot rolls with melted butter and sprinkle flaky salt if desired. Serve warm for best texture.

Make-Ahead/Storage/Freezing Instructions

To Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough up to 16 hours in advance but do not let it rise. Portion the dough into the greased muffin pan, cover with oiled plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then let it rise and bake as directed.

To Store: Rolls are best enjoyed warm. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or warm in the oven before serving.

To Freeze: Cool completely, place in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and rewarm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

Can these gluten-free dinner rolls be made dairy-free?

Yes. Replace whole milk powder with coconut or soy milk powder and swap the butter for your preferred vegan butter. These substitutions maintain tenderness and flavor.

King Arthur Gluten-Free Bread Flour contains wheat starch. Is it safe for celiacs?

King Arthur Gluten-Free Bread Flour is specially processed and tested to meet strict gluten-free standards, typically under 20 ppm of gluten. It is labeled and tested to be safe for most people with celiac disease. Note that someone with a wheat allergy should consult product labeling and their healthcare provider, as wheat allergy is a different condition than celiac disease.

Is the dough supposed to be sticky?

Yes. Gluten-free doughs are often wetter and stickier than wheat-based doughs; that moisture is essential for a soft, fluffy interior. Using a muffin pan makes portioning and baking easier than trying to shape sticky dough by hand.

More Recipes Using Gluten-Free Bread Flour

• Gluten-Free Hamburger Buns
• Gluten-Free Naan
• Gluten-Free Crescent Rolls
• Gluten-Free Soft Pretzels
• Gluten-Free Hot Cross Buns
• Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls
• Gluten-Free Monkey Bread
• Gluten-Free Orange Rolls