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reshly baked gluten free Hawaiian rolls on a wooden table, soft and golden brown with a fluffy texture.

Gluten Free Hawaiian Rolls Made Simple and Perfect

Chef Sophia
Make soft, sweet, and fluffy gluten free Hawaiian rolls at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for any meal, gluten-free or not!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Bread, Breakfast, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 160 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls (Set of 2-3)
  • Stand Mixer with a Dough Hook Attachment
  • 9x13-Inch Baking Pan
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Kitchen Thermometer

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. If your mix doesn’t have it, be sure to add 1 teaspoon separately.
  • ¼ cup Sugar: This adds the signature sweetness that sets Hawaiian rolls apart.
  • 2 ¼ teaspoon Instant Yeast: Gives your rolls that beautiful rise and light texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.

Wet Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup Milk, warm: Regular or plant-based milk works here, but make sure it’s warmed to around 110°F for activating the yeast.
  • ¼ cup Pineapple Juice The secret ingredient that adds a hint of tropical sweetness.
  • 4 teaspoons Butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create that golden, buttery crust.
  • 2 large Eggs: Bring these to room temperature for better mixing and structure.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 Tablespoon Honey: For an extra layer of sweetness, perfect if you’re making gluten free sweet Hawaiian rolls.
  • ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle, aromatic touch.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (around 110°F), pineapple juice, and sugar.
  • Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to give your rolls that perfect rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, whisk together the gluten-free flour, salt, and xanthan gum (if not already in the flour mix).
  • Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using) to the dry ingredients.
  • Using the dough hook attachment or a wooden spoon, mix until the dough comes together. It should be sticky but not overly wet. If needed, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour to adjust the consistency.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm area. Let the dough rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  • If your kitchen is chilly, use the proofing method in the oven (preheat to 200°F, turn off the heat, and place the bowl inside).

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

  • Lightly grease your hands and a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  • Divide the dough into 12–15 equal portions. Roll each piece gently into a ball and arrange them in the prepared pan, leaving a bit of space between them for expansion.

Step 5: Final Rise

  • Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until they puff up slightly.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  • Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for a golden finish.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  • Let the rolls cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  • Serve warm with butter or use them as the base for sliders, sandwiches, or any dish you love.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
  • Calories: 160
  • Total Fat: 4g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 200mg
Keyword easy bread recipes, gluten free bread, gluten free hawaiian rolls, sweet hawaiian rolls