The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn born and raised on the beautiful island of Crete, where the scent of cinnamon and honey often fills the air. Growing up, my grandmother used to bake sweet bread rolls every Sunday morning. The kitchen would come alive with laughter, music, and that irresistible smell of warm dough. When I moved away, I missed that comforting aroma so much that I started experimenting with my own twists on her recipes.
That’s how these Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Drizzle came to life soft, fluffy, and full of cozy autumn flavors. I wanted something that felt like fall but could be enjoyed all year long, especially by friends who can’t have gluten. Pumpkin adds a beautiful golden color and natural sweetness, while cinnamon gives that nostalgic warmth we all crave when the weather cools.
Every bite takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen messy counters, flour in my hair, and a heart full of love. These rolls aren’t just gluten-free; they’re joy-filled spirals that bring people together. Whether you’re new to baking or already a kitchen pro, you’ll love how simple and satisfying these are to make.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and create some sweet, pumpkin-scented memories together with this gluten-free pumpkin cinnamon rolls recipe your home will smell like a cozy bakery in no time.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
For the Maple Drizzle:
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Warm your milk to about 105°F not too hot! Stir in the sugar and yeast, and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it looks foamy. That’s how you know your yeast is alive and ready to make magic.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and begin adding the gluten-free flour a little at a time, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle a bit more flour gluten-free dough tends to be more tender than regular dough, so don’t overdo it.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This is when the kitchen starts to smell amazing a mix of pumpkin and cinnamon that feels like a warm hug.
Step 4: Make the Filling
While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside your softened butter.
Step 5: Roll It Out
Lightly flour a clean surface with gluten-free flour. Gently roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Step 6: Roll & Slice
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut 1-inch thick slices. You should get around 10–12 rolls.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one. Cover again and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes. They’ll puff up beautifully!
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes until they’re golden and your kitchen smells like autumn heaven.
Step 9: Make the Maple Drizzle
Whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and milk until smooth. You want it pourable but not watery just right for drizzling over warm rolls.
Step 10: Serve & Enjoy
Once the rolls are slightly cooled, drizzle that luscious maple glaze over the top. Watch it melt into every swirl of pumpkin and cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these gluten-free pumpkin cinnamon rolls warm with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of almond milk. They’re perfect for lazy weekend mornings, brunch gatherings, or as a cozy dessert.
For an extra treat, sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the glaze. You can also add a little orange zest to the icing for a citrusy twist.
These rolls taste best fresh but can be reheated in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to bring back that warm, gooey texture.
Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls 🍁
- Use fresh yeast: Always check expiration dates for best rise.
- Don’t over-knead: Gluten-free dough doesn’t need as much handling.
- Warm environment: Let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to speed things up.
- Sweetener swap: You can use coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener for a lighter option.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Recipe Card
🕒 Time: 1 hr 45 mins (including rising)
🧺 Ingredients: Listed above
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Activate yeast in warm milk and sugar.
- Mix dough ingredients and let rise.
- Roll out, fill, and slice.
- Let rise again, bake at 350°F for 25–30 mins.
- Drizzle maple glaze on top and enjoy!
📝 Note:
For dairy-free rolls, use plant-based milk and vegan butter flavor stays just as amazing!
🥣 Nutrition (Per Roll):
Calories: 245 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 38g | Sugar: 15g
Short 100-Word Story Version
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete! These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Drizzle were inspired by my grandmother’s Sunday baking traditions. I wanted to bring that same warmth and joy into a recipe everyone can enjoy even those avoiding gluten. The pumpkin adds soft sweetness, the cinnamon gives that nostalgic aroma, and the maple drizzle ties it all together with golden perfection. Every bite feels like a cozy hug and reminds me of messy counters, laughter, and love. Let’s make your kitchen smell like autumn and your heart feel full.
Conclusion
Cooking is about more than just food it’s about connection, memories, and love shared around the table. These gluten-free pumpkin cinnamon rolls capture that spirit perfectly. They’re soft, golden, and filled with everything comforting about fall.
Next time you crave something sweet and cozy, skip the bakery bake a little joy right at home. Because when you cook with heart, even a gluten-free recipe becomes something unforgettable. 💛