Gluten-Free Hawaiian Rolls

🌟 Recipe Highlights

• They taste just like regular Hawaiian rolls– They have the same soft and fluffy texture and sweet and buttery flavor just like regular rolls.
• Quick and Simple – These rolls require simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Also, you don’t need any baking skills to make them
• Dairy-Free Option – Can be made dairy-free with simple swaps.
• Versatile. You can serve these rolls on their own, with butter or jam, a a side to savory dishes, or make sliders.

Gluten-Free Flour – I recommend using a store-bought blend such as King Arthur Measure for Measure Flour or Bob’s Red Mill. Regardless of which flour brand you choose to use, just make sure that it contains xanthan gum. Xanthan gum is the binding agent in gluten-free baking.

Salt – Enhances flavor.

Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise quickly. I prefer using instant yeast because you can add it directly to the dough. However, you can also use active dry yeast. If using active dry yeast, use 2 ½ teaspoon and activate it in warm water before adding to the dough.

Eggs – Provides the dough with structure. I recommend using eggs that are at room temperature for the best results.I have not tested this recipe without eggs or any egg replacers.

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture. If you want to make Dairy-free Gluten-free Hawaiian rolls, you can use any vegan butter.

Milk – Use lukewarm milk to help in activating the yeast. You can use regular or dairy-free milk. Alternatively, you can also use water.

Pineapple Juice – This is the signature ingredient and what differentiates these rolls from any other rolls.! The pineapple juice adds natural sweetness and softness.

Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar – Give the rolls their sweet flavor. If you want your rolls less sweet you can decrease the amount of sugar. You can also substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar, cane sugar, or more white sugar if needed.

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweet flavor.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Helps activate the baking process, making the rolls lighter. You can substitute it with regular white vinegar.

🥣 How to make these Gluten-Free Hawaiian Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Warm the milk to 115°F (45°C). Ensure it is warm but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Add the warm milk, softened butter, eggs, pineapple juice, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar to the dry ingredients. Blend thoroughly with an electric mixer until well combined.

Step 2: Shape the Rolls

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan (or two 9-inch square or round pans). You can also use a cast-iron skillet or a lined baking sheet. 

Divide the dough into 15 equal parts and roll each one into a ball. If the dough feels too soft, add a bit of flour. Alternatively, if your dough feels too soft, you can also use an ice cream scoop, portion the dough into balls, and place them in the pan. To prevent sticking, spray the scoop with gluten-free cooking spray.

Use a spatula to smooth out the tops of the dough balls.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. They should become puffy and slightly larger.

Step 4: Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and adjust the rack to a lower position to prevent over-browning. Whisk one egg with 2 tablespoons of water and brush it over the rolls for a golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tops turn a golden brown.

Step 5: Finishing Touch

Melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter and brush it over the warm rolls.

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

📖 Storage Instructions

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can store them in the freezer to keep them fresh for a longer period.

To defrost, leave them to thaw at room temperature. To refresh them, warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.

👩🏻‍🍳 Expert Tips

• Check Your Yeast – Make sure that your yeast is fresh and active before use. Expired yeast won’t allow your rolls to rise properly.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Eggs and butter should be at room temperature for even mixing.
• Avoid Overheating Milk – Milk should be lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
• Use a Warm Environment for Rising – If your kitchen is cold, place the rolls near a heater or in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help them rise.
• Smooth Dough with a Spatula – Gluten-free dough can be sticky. Use a spatula or damp hands to shape the rolls neatly.
• Bake on a Lower Rack – This prevents the tops from browning too quickly while allowing the inside to bake through.
• Brush with Butter After Baking – This gives the rolls a beautiful shine and enhances the buttery flavor.

💬 FAQ

📖 More Gluten-Free Baked Goods

• Gluten-Free Naan Bread
• Gluten-Free Garlic Knots
• Gluten-Free Brioche Bread
• Gluten-Free Pizza Rolls
• Gluten-Free Bagels
• Gluten-Free Soft Pretzels