Gluten Free Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

These Gluten Free Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of cozy cinnamon spice and classic carrot cake flavor. Soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a warmly spiced brown sugar mixture, shredded carrots, and finished with a rich cream cheese frosting. This recipe brings all the comfort of traditional cinnamon rolls with a fun carrot cake twist—completely gluten-free and just as satisfying. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or a weekend baking project, these rolls are soft, gooey, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy gluten-free dough that bakes beautifully
• Warm cinnamon spice with real carrot cake flavor
• Perfect for brunch, holidays, or special mornings
• Topped with rich, creamy frosting
• Make-ahead friendly for easy baking
• A fun twist on classic cinnamon rolls

Ingredients Needed

For the Dough

• 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

For the Carrot Filling

• 1 cup finely grated carrots
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix gluten-free flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes until slightly puffed.
4. Roll the dough between parchment into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface.
5. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then sprinkle evenly. Add grated carrots on top.
6. Roll tightly into a log and slice into even rolls. Place in a greased baking dish.
7. Cover and let rise again for 20–30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
9. Mix frosting ingredients until smooth and spread over warm rolls before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use finely grated carrots so they soften during baking
• Handle gluten-free dough gently to prevent tearing
• Roll dough between parchment for easier shaping
• Don’t skip the second rise for softer rolls
• Frost while slightly warm for a melt-in texture

Variations & Substitutions

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
• Swap cream cheese frosting for a simple glaze
• Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a dairy-free version
• Add raisins for a classic carrot cake touch
• Sprinkle coconut flakes into the filling

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with coffee or tea
• Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced brunch
• Add extra frosting on top for a dessert-style treat
• Enjoy as a holiday breakfast centerpiece
• Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness

Storage & Reheating

Store rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F until warm. Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Freshly grated carrots are best for moisture and texture.

How do I keep gluten-free rolls soft?
Avoid overbaking and store them covered to retain moisture.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy-free butter, milk, and cream cheese.

Why didn’t my dough rise much?
Gluten-free dough rises less than regular dough but should still puff slightly.

kitchen recipe lab

Gluten Free Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

These Gluten Free Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls combine soft, fluffy dough with warm cinnamon spice and classic carrot cake flavor. Filled with brown sugar, grated carrots, and topped with creamy frosting, they’re perfect for brunch, holidays, or cozy mornings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 rolls

Course: Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 340

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup finely grated carrots
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

• mixing bowls
• whisk
• measuring cups and spoons
• parchment paper
• Rolling Pin
• baking dish
• electric mixer or whisk

Method

 

1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix gluten-free flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs, then mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes until slightly puffed.
4. Roll the dough between parchment paper into a rectangle and spread softened butter over the surface.
5. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then sprinkle evenly over the dough. Top with grated carrots.
6. Roll tightly into a log and slice into even rolls. Place in a greased baking dish.
7. Cover and let rise again for 20–30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
9. Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then spread over warm rolls before serving.

Notes

Use finely grated carrots for the best texture and moisture. Roll the dough between parchment paper for easier handling. Don’t skip the second rise for soft rolls. Frost while slightly warm for a smooth, melt-in finish. Store covered to keep rolls soft.