Soft & Fluffy Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls (Easy Family Recipe)

There’s something so comforting about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen — especially when it’s a batch of soft, buttery Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls. These rolls are light, fluffy, and delicious enough to make everyone at the table ask for seconds.

As someone who bakes for a family that includes both gluten-free and gluten-loving eaters, I can promise you — no one will know these are gluten-free. They’re that soft. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner, a Thanksgiving feast, or just a craving for warm bread with butter, this recipe is a must-try.

When I first started baking gluten-free, I struggled to find rolls that didn’t turn out dense or dry. I experimented with everything — from Bob’s Red Mill to King Arthur gluten-free flour blends — until I found the perfect balance using Cup4Cup flour. The secret? A simple roux and a touch of psyllium husk to mimic gluten’s elasticity.

So grab your mixing bowl and let’s make your new favorite gluten-free rolls together.

Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

These rolls are everything you’ve been craving — soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and melt-in-your-mouth buttery.

• Fluffy and soft – no more dense gluten-free bread.
• Simple ingredients – no xanthan gum or fancy mixes required.
• Family-friendly – even picky eaters will love them.
• Make-ahead friendly – perfect for holidays or meal prep.
• Versatile – serve with soups, turn them into gluten-free slider rolls, or enjoy with jam at breakfast.

Ingredients for the Best Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

Let’s talk about what you’ll need. Everything is easy to find and pantry-friendly.

the Roux

• 2 tablespoons (18 g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (Cup4Cup recommended)
• 3 tablespoons (45 g) water
• 3 tablespoons (45 g) milk

For the Rolls

• 1 ½ cups (214 g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (Cup4Cup recommended)
• 3 tablespoons (31 g) potato starch
• 3 tablespoons (38 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon (11 g) psyllium husk powder
• 1 packet (9 g / 2¼ tsp) instant rapid rise yeast
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (184 g) warm milk (110°F)
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) melted butter

For the Tops

• 2 tablespoons (28 g) butter
• ¼ teaspoon salt

What Is Psyllium Husk?

If you’re new to gluten-free baking, psyllium husk might sound a little intimidating — but it’s pure magic. It’s a natural fiber made from the husks of Plantago ovata seeds. When mixed into dough, it acts as a binder, giving structure and elasticity to your rolls — just like gluten would.

It keeps the dough moist, springy, and prevents that dry, crumbly texture we all dread in gluten-free bread. You’ll find it in most grocery stores near the baking section, or online.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

This recipe is easy enough for beginners but delivers bakery-quality results.

1. Warm the Oven

Before you begin, preheat your oven to 200°F, then turn it off once it reaches temperature. You’ll use this warm oven for proofing the dough. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and set it aside.

2. Make the Roux

In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons flour, 3 tablespoons milk, and 3 tablespoons water. Whisk constantly over medium heat until a trail appears at the bottom of the pan — that’s your sign it’s ready. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

This simple roux gives the rolls that irresistibly soft texture. It’s one of my favorite little baking tricks!

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine:

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour
• 3 tablespoons potato starch
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon psyllium husk
• 1 packet yeast
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Mix on low speed with the paddle attachment.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients FOR Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

Add the warm milk, egg, melted butter, and roux to your dry ingredients. Beat on low until everything comes together, then increase to high speed and beat for 5 minutes.

The dough should be thick, sticky, and slightly glossy. Don’t worry if it looks different from regular bread dough — that’s exactly how gluten-free dough should look.

5. Shape the Rolls

Grease your hands and a ¼ cup measure with cooking spray. Scoop out slightly less than ¼ cup portions (about 2 oz each), roll into smooth balls, and place them into your prepared baking pan.

Tip from my kitchen: If the dough is too sticky, lightly oil your hands instead of adding more flour. It keeps the texture perfect!

6. Let the Dough Rise

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place it in the warm (turned-off) oven for 10 minutes. Then remove it and let it rise for another 20 minutes at room temperature while your oven preheats to 350°F.

You’ll start to see the dough puff up beautifully — a little moment of magic every baker loves.

7. Butter and Bake

Melt 2 tablespoons butter with ¼ teaspoon salt, and brush the tops of the rolls. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the internal temperature reads 195–200°F.

As soon as they come out, brush again with the remaining butter for that irresistible shine. Serve warm — preferably with a little extra butter (because, why not?).

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this recipe is how well these rolls store and reheat.

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep up to 5 days. Reheat for 10 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in the oven.
• Freezer: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat at 300°F for 10 minutes.
• Make-ahead: Shape and refrigerate overnight. Let the dough sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls are so versatile! I love serving them as a side for soups, holiday dinners, or even breakfast sandwiches.

Here are some pairing ideas your family will love:

• Try them with this hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
• Or dip them into these creamy Crockpot Potato Soup recipes.
• For dessert, bake a loaf of this delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread for the holidays.

They also make the best little gluten-free slider rolls — perfect for leftover turkey or pulled BBQ chicken.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Rolls

• Don’t skip the roux. It adds softness and structure — the secret to fluffy rolls.
• Weigh your flour. Gluten-free blends can pack differently in cups. Measuring by grams ensures consistency.
• Warm milk is key. Yeast needs gentle warmth to activate.
• Use Cup4Cup or similar blend. Other flours like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 or King Arthur gluten-free flour work, but textures vary.
• Brush twice with butter. Once before baking for golden color, and once after for flavor and shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these gluten-free dinner rolls without yeast?

Yes, you can! Substitute the yeast with 1 teaspoon each of baking soda and baking powder. The result will be more like soft biscuits, but still delicious.

What gluten-free flour blend works best?

I love Cup4Cup, but King Arthur and Bob’s Red Mill also perform well. Avoid almond or coconut flour — they don’t have the right starch balance for bread texture.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use almond milk and vegan butter. The texture stays soft and light.

How long does the dough take to rise?

About 30 minutes in total — 10 minutes in the warm oven and 20 minutes at room temperature.

Can I freeze the baked rolls?

Yes! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag once solid. Reheat from frozen — no thawing needed.

My Family’s Favorite Part

The best part of this recipe? Watching everyone tear into warm rolls straight from the oven. There’s something so wholesome about baking bread — it slows down the day, fills the house with cozy smells, and brings everyone to the table smiling.

My kids love to brush their own butter on top (and sneak a bite while it’s still steaming). And every time I make these, my husband can’t believe they’re gluten-free.

So if you’ve been missing that classic dinner roll experience — this one’s for you.

Save & Share

If you love these Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls, don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest so you can find it easily next time!

I’d love to see your baking creations — tag me on Pinterest or share your photos in the comments below. Tell me: did you serve them with soup, use them as sliders, or sneak one right from the pan? (No judgment — I do it too. )

Final Thoughts

These soft, fluffy Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls are everything a good roll should be — comforting, easy to make, and perfect for any meal. They’re the kind of bread that makes people gather around the table and ask for “just one more.”

So preheat that oven, grab your favorite apron, and bake a little gluten-free happiness today. Because good bread — especially homemade bread — is meant to be shared.

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