Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath Recipe

The Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath is the ultimate cozy treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Bursting with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar, this beauty is delightfully soft and perfectly spiced, all while being completely gluten-free. Whether you’re treating your family for breakfast or impressing friends at a brunch, this wreath brings a gorgeous, festive twist to classic cinnamon rolls with its lovely shape and irresistible glaze. Once you try this, it’s going to be your go-to holiday favorite or weekend indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: from the fluffy texture created by the gluten-free bread flour to the rich flavor imparted by the butter and the sweet warmth brought by the cinnamon filling.

• King Arthur Gluten-Free Bread Flour: Provides structure and a chewy, soft crumb that mimics traditional flour perfectly.
• Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Instant yeast: Powers the rise, making the rolls light and fluffy.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors while balancing sweetness.
• Baking powder: Supports the dough’s lift for perfect texture.
• Water and whole milk: Keep the dough tender and moist, while adding richness.
• Eggs: For tenderness and binding, giving the dough structure and richness.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness to both dough and filling, creating that irresistible flakiness.
• Brown sugar and ground cinnamon: The iconic filling that brings warmth and sweetness in every bite.
• Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract: Whipped into a luscious glaze that adds the perfect sweet finishing touch.
• Pomegranate seeds or sugared cranberries: Optional but delightful garnishes that add festive color and a slight tartness.

How to Make Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath

Step 1: Mix and Prepare the Dough

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the gluten-free bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, kosher salt, and baking powder. Mixing these dry ingredients well upfront ensures your dough develops flavor evenly. Slowly add the water, milk, eggs, and melted butter while the mixer runs on low, then increase the speed to medium and mix for three minutes. The dough will be sticky and thick, resembling cookie dough in texture, which is totally normal for gluten-free blends. Scrape down the bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle later.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough chills, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple combination is classic and creates that mouthwatering cinnamon-sugar flavor that’s the heart of your Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling

Lightly flour your surface with gluten-free flour and turn the chilled dough out onto it. Roll into a 16×16-inch square—it’s easier to manage now that it’s firmed up. Brush the entire surface with melted butter to make it rich and then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top. This layer will melt into delicious pockets of cinnamon-sweetness as it bakes.

Step 4: Shape the Wreath

Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into sixteen 1-inch strips. Roll each strip tightly into a cinnamon roll by starting at one end and rolling towards the other. Arrange these rolls side by side in a circular pattern on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming a beautiful wreath shape. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise in a warm spot for 45 to 60 minutes until puffed and inviting.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the wreath for 30 to 35 minutes, keeping an eye on the color. Once the rolls have turned a lovely golden brown, remove them and let cool for 15 minutes. This rest time prevents the glaze from melting completely when applied and helps the rolls set just right.

Step 6: Glaze and Decorate

Whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth, then drape it luxuriously over your beautiful wreath. If you want to add a festive touch, sprinkle pomegranate seeds or sugared cranberries on top. This step turns your Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath into a showstopper that’s as joyful to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath

Garnishes

Add a few pomegranate seeds or sugared cranberries for a burst of color and a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar can also highlight the wreath’s beautiful shape.

Side Dishes

This wreath pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more complete brunch, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a light yogurt parfait to balance the richness of the cinnamon rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Place the wreath on a rustic wooden board or a festive platter, surrounded by fresh evergreen sprigs during holiday celebrations. You could also cut the rolls into individual servings and serve them on a tiered cake stand for a delightful gathering centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days, perfect for quick snacks or a sweet breakfast on the go.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked wreath by wrapping it well with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. To freeze before baking, assemble and freeze the shaped rolls on the baking tray; then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw completely and allow to rise before baking.

Reheating

Warm the rolls gently in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated 300-degree oven for about 10 minutes to regain their fresh-baked softness. Drizzle more glaze over top if desired to refresh its lovely shine and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk with an almond, oat, or coconut milk of your choice, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor remains wonderfully comforting.

What type of gluten-free flour works best for this recipe?

King Arthur Gluten-Free Bread Flour is recommended here because it balances tenderness and elasticity well, giving you that perfect chewy texture many seek in cinnamon rolls.

How long should I let the rolls rise? Can I let them rise overnight?

The ideal rise time is 45 to 60 minutes in a warm spot. For overnight rising, you can refrigerate the shaped rolls covered for up to 12 hours, then let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Why does the dough resemble cookie dough and not traditional bread dough?

Gluten-free doughs typically lack the gluten network that gives traditional bread doughs their elasticity, so the consistency is thicker and more like cookie dough. This is completely normal and results in light, fluffy rolls.

Can I omit the glaze or substitute it?

Yes, you can skip the glaze or swap it for a cream cheese frosting for a richer, tangy twist that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. Either way, your Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath will be delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a cozy, festive treat that everyone can enjoy, the Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Wreath is your answer. This recipe brings together simplicity, warmth, and a little bit of magic in every bite. Don’t hesitate—roll up your sleeves and make this stunning wreath for your next gathering or relaxed weekend breakfast. It’s truly a labor of love that tastes just as wonderful as it looks.

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