Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

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Do you ever wish your dinner rolls could be both indulgently soft and allergy-friendly? These Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls answer that call with golden tops and pillowy centers that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday meal or alongside weeknight soup, these rolls bring comfort and inclusivity to the table.

Crafted for those avoiding both dairy and gluten, these rolls feature a careful balance of ingredients that create a classic, buttery taste without traditional butter or wheat. The result? Fluffy, satisfying bites that are golden on the outside and irresistibly tender on the inside.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

For the perfect batch of dairy-free, gluten-free dinner rolls, preparation is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for combining your dry ingredients and a smaller one for wet ingredients. Gluten-free baking often requires more hydration, so a separate bowl helps ensure full incorporation.
• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (or Hand Mixer with Paddle): This is essential to properly mix and develop structure in the dough without gluten. The mixer ensures even hydration and smooth texture.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is crucial in gluten-free baking. Use dry measuring cups for flour and liquid ones for milk and oils.
• Glass Baking Dish or Muffin Tin: A 9×13 glass dish helps distribute heat evenly and gives the rolls that perfectly browned bottom. Muffin tins can be used for individual rolls if you prefer.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing melted dairy-free butter or oil over the tops to get that gorgeous golden finish.
• Proofing Environment: A warm spot or proofing drawer ensures the dough rises effectively, crucial in gluten-free baking since it doesn’t develop elasticity the same way wheat-based dough does.

With these tools, you’re set up for success and ready to create bakery-quality rolls at home.

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Ingredients for the Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering texture and taste:

• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the recipe, giving structure without gluten. Choose one that includes xanthan gum or add it separately.
• Tapioca Starch: Adds stretch and chew, mimicking the elasticity gluten typically provides.
• Instant Yeast: Essential for rise and fluffiness. Instant yeast activates quickly and shortens rise time.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Salt: Balances the flavor and strengthens the dough.
• Dairy-Free Milk (like almond or oat): Adds moisture and richness without dairy.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps the dough rise and improves tenderness.
• Olive Oil or Neutral Oil: Adds richness and moisture.
• Dairy-Free Butter (for brushing): Gives that golden finish and buttery flavor.

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How To Make the Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm dairy-free milk (around 110°F), sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, tapioca starch, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

Add the activated yeast mixture, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook (or hand mixer with paddle), mix on medium speed until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 minutes. It should nearly double in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Lightly oil your hands and divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. They should puff up and touch each other slightly.

Step 7: Bake and Finish

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 22-25 minutes or until golden brown. Brush immediately with melted dairy-free butter for that irresistible finish.

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How to Serve and Store Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

These dinner rolls are best served warm, fresh from the oven, with a smear of dairy-free butter or alongside your favorite soups and stews. They complement hearty mains like roasted chicken or lentil-based dishes beautifully.

To store, let the rolls cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 4-5 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these rolls egg-free too?

You can substitute the egg (if your flour blend includes it) with a flax egg or a store-bought egg replacer. The texture may be slightly denser but still delicious.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough through the first rise, then refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and doing the second rise.

What if I don’t have tapioca starch?

Arrowroot or potato starch can be used as a substitute, though tapioca gives the best chew.

Why did my rolls turn out dense?

This usually happens if the dough didn’t rise properly. Make sure your yeast is fresh and the dough is kept in a warm, draft-free environment.

Can I use a bread machine?

It’s not recommended due to the different texture of gluten-free dough. A stand mixer or hand mixing is more effective.

Do I need to use xanthan gum?

If your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t already include it, yes. It’s essential for structure in gluten-free baking.

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Want More Bread & Roll Recipes?

You might also like the Italian Ricotta Easter Bread Recipe, a soft braided option for festive tables. Or try the Homemade Flaky Croissants, which are dairy-free adaptable with a bit of technique.

For something casual but rich, check out the Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheesebombs, or keep it rustic with Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken Dumplings Recipe — perfect with a warm roll on the side.

Another complement for your table could be the Roasted Asparagus Recipe, offering contrast to the rich rolls.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your bread or gluten-free recipe boards for easy access later. Just click the Pin button.

If you give this recipe a go, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did you brush with garlic oil? Did you swap in a different milk? Share your version below. I’m always curious to see your take!

For more daily allergy-friendly recipes, check out my Pinterest @LadyPlate.

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