Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

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I’ve always believed that food should be inclusive, and that’s why these Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls have become a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions or just looking for a healthier alternative to classic rolls, these are the softest, fluffiest little clouds you’ll ever bake. They come out of the oven golden and warm, with just the right amount of chew and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center.

I created this recipe after too many failed attempts at gluten-free breads that turned out crumbly or dry. These rolls, however, are different—they rise beautifully, have a rich texture without dairy, and pair perfectly with just about anything. You won’t believe they’re free of traditional flour and butter, and that’s exactly what makes them magical.

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Why You’ll Love This Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls Recipe

• Soft, fluffy, and moist—no dry or crumbly textures here.
• 100% free of dairy and gluten, making it allergen-friendly.
• Perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or as sandwich sliders.
• Simple pantry ingredients you probably already have.
• Customizable and freezer-friendly!

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What Makes These Rolls So Fluffy Without Gluten?

The secret lies in using a perfect blend of gluten-free flour, a touch of psyllium husk for structure, and active dry yeast to help with that impressive rise. Gluten-free baking can be tricky, but these rolls have the elasticity and softness you typically only find in traditional dinner rolls, all without the gluten network.

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Options for Substitutions

• Flour Blend: You can use any 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but I recommend one that includes xanthan gum or guar gum for the best texture.
• Milk Substitute: Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk all work well. Just be sure it’s unsweetened and plain.
• Butter Alternative: Use any dairy-free butter or even olive oil if you want a slightly different flavor.
• Sweetener: Coconut sugar, maple syrup, or even honey (if not strictly vegan) are all acceptable swaps.
• Eggs: For an egg-free version, a flax egg or chia egg works just as well, though the rolls might be slightly denser.

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Ingredients for This Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls Recipe

• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend – The backbone of this recipe; use a blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Psyllium Husk Powder – Acts as a binder and improves the elasticity and softness of the rolls.
• Active Dry Yeast – Essential for that beautiful rise and fluffy interior.
• Sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the taste.
• Warm Dairy-Free Milk (like almond or oat milk) – Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist.
• Dairy-Free Butter or Olive Oil – Adds richness and a tender texture.
• Egg or Flax Egg – Helps with binding and softness; flax egg keeps it vegan.

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Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a small bowl, combine warm dairy-free milk (about 110°F), sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is alive and ready to help your rolls rise.

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Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, psyllium husk powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed and prevents clumping later on.

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Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the foamy yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add in the dairy-free butter (melted) and the egg or flax egg. Mix well until a thick, sticky dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a sturdy spatula.

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Step 4: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm area. Let the dough rise for about 60 to 90 minutes or until it has doubled in size. Gluten-free doughs don’t always rise as dramatically as wheat-based ones, but it should noticeably puff up.

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Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, lightly oil your hands and divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and place them into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. They should be close but not touching—this helps them rise and get that pull-apart texture.

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Step 6: Second Rise

Cover again and let the shaped rolls rest for another 30 to 45 minutes. This gives them one final boost before baking.

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Step 7: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 22 to 28 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. If they start browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 5-10 minutes.

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Step 8: Brush and Cool

Remove the rolls from the oven and brush the tops with melted dairy-free butter for that shiny, bakery-style finish. Let them cool slightly before serving—they’re best warm and fresh out of the oven!

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How Long to Prepare the Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

Making these rolls does require some patience, but every step plays a role in delivering perfect texture and flavor.

Prep Time: About 20 minutes to gather and mix your ingredients. This includes activating the yeast and shaping the rolls.

Rise Time: The first rise takes around 60 to 90 minutes, and the second rise another 30 to 45 minutes.

Bake Time: Baking usually takes 22 to 28 minutes, depending on your oven.

In total, you’ll want to set aside around 2.5 to 3 hours from start to finish, with much of that being hands-off time.

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Tips for Perfect Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

• Make sure your dairy-free milk is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast.
• Use fresh yeast—expired or inactive yeast won’t give you the rise you need.
• Don’t skip the psyllium husk; it adds critical structure to the gluten-free dough.
• Lightly oil your hands when shaping the rolls to prevent sticking.
• For an extra soft crust, cover the rolls with a clean towel after baking while they cool.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using cold milk – It won’t activate the yeast properly.
• Skipping the second rise – This results in denser rolls with less fluff.
• Adding too much flour – Gluten-free dough should be sticky; adding too much flour can dry out your rolls.
• Overbaking – Watch them closely near the end of the bake time to avoid drying out.
• Not using a pan that fits – Too much space between rolls means they won’t rise into that classic pull-apart style.

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What to Serve With Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls?

1. Hearty Vegan Chili

Perfect for dunking. These rolls hold up well with thick, spicy stews.

2. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

The fluffy texture pairs wonderfully with the richness of the soup.

3. Grilled Veggie Sandwiches

Slice a roll open and stuff it with roasted veggies and hummus.

4. Dairy-Free Garlic Butter Spread

Serve with a side of homemade dairy-free garlic butter for extra flavor.

5. Holiday Roasts or Plant-Based Mains

These rolls are ideal next to your festive centerpiece—turkey or a mushroom wellington.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 days. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.

Refrigeration: Not recommended as it can dry them out faster. If you must, wrap tightly.

Freezer: These freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, place the rolls in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes until warm.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Roll)

• Calories: 160
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 4.5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 190mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these rolls vegan?

Simply use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and ensure your milk and butter substitutes are plant-based.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

What if I don’t have psyllium husk?

You can try using ground chia seeds as a substitute, though psyllium gives the best texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish or split between two pans.

How do I reheat the rolls?

Wrap them in foil and heat in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes until warm and soft.

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Conclusion

These Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls prove that dietary restrictions don’t mean sacrificing taste or texture. With the right ingredients and a bit of time, you can enjoy warm, pillowy rolls that rival any traditional version. Whether you’re preparing a holiday spread or just want a comforting addition to your dinner table, these rolls are the perfect choice.

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