If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that’s as fun to pull apart as it is to eat, Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is your new baking bestie. Imagine soft, pillowy layers of cinnamon-kissed dough, caramelized edges, and a silky vanilla glaze drizzling down each bite—all without a trace of gluten. It’s cozy, golden, and absolutely magical for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Anyone at your table—gluten free or not—will be hooked from the very first tug!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is how a handful of pantry staples can transform into something utterly delightful. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the tender crumb inside to the sweet, sticky finish on top. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each one deserves its place in your kitchen.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour (2½ cups): This is the backbone of the dough, providing structure while keeping everything tender—just ensure your blend includes xanthan gum for the best chew.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the dough and helps with that lightly golden finish.
- Instant yeast (1 tablespoon): Gives the bread its lift and airy texture—no need to bloom it, just mix right in!
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Warm milk (¾ cup): Adds moisture and softness—you can use dairy or your favorite plant milk (just be sure it’s warm, not hot!).
- Unsalted butter, melted (¼ cup): Enriches the dough; swap for your go-to dairy-free margarine if needed.
- Eggs, room temperature (2 large): Help bind the dough and keep it satisfyingly rich.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the aroma and flavor in the dough and glaze.
- Brown sugar, packed (½ cup): This is the heart of that irresistible cinnamon swirl!
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The star spice—warming, fragrant, and deliciously nostalgic.
- Softened butter (3 tablespoons): For slathering over the rolled dough and marrying with the cinnamon sugar (dairy-free works too).
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Melts into a glossy glaze that hugs every layer.
- Milk for glaze (2–3 tablespoons): Thins out the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency—whatever milk you like.
- Vanilla extract for glaze (½ teaspoon): A dash of vanilla in the glaze ties all the cozy flavors together.
How to Make Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by gathering two bowls—a large one for your dry ingredients and a smaller one for wet. In the big bowl, stir together the gluten-free flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In the second bowl, whisk warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and mix thoroughly with a spatula until a soft, sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest for 15 minutes so the flour can hydrate—this makes rolling and shaping much easier later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
While your dough is relaxing, take a small bowl to combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Mix until well blended; you want every granule of sugar to get a dusting of spice. Also, have your softened butter ready—this duo is what creates those gorgeous, gooey layers!
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Place your rested dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it out into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Peel off the top sheet and spread the softened butter evenly over the entire surface, making sure to reach the edges so every bite is full of flavor. Next, sprinkle on that brown sugar and cinnamon mixture, patting it gently so it sticks to the butter.
Step 4: Cut and Stack the Dough
Now for the fun part: use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into long strips (about 3 inches wide). Then, cut those strips crosswise into squares. Carefully stack the squares—if they’re a little messy, that’s okay!—and gently place them in a greased loaf pan, standing them up loosely on their sides. Don’t pack them too tightly; you want air pockets for that signature pull-apart effect.
Step 5: Proof the Bread
Cover the loaf pan with a towel or plastic wrap and set it in a warm, draft-free spot. Let the dough rise for 30 to 45 minutes, until everything looks slightly puffy and a bit expanded. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, tender crumb in your Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread.
Step 6: Bake and Glaze
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slide your pan onto the middle rack and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the bread is beautifully golden and fully cooked through. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, quickly whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm bread, letting it seep into every nook and cranny.
How to Serve Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread
Garnishes
A simple vanilla glaze is the classic finishing touch, but don’t stop there—consider scattering a handful of chopped toasted nuts, a sprinkle of coarse sugar, or even a dusting of extra cinnamon on top. If you’re feeling festive, a few orange zest shavings elevate the aroma and add a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair your warm Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread with a side of fresh fruit, thick Greek yogurt, or a hot mug of spiced chai for breakfast heaven. It’s also lovely with eggs or a refreshing fruit salad at brunch, offering that perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this bread right from the loaf pan for a rustic, family-style moment where everyone can dig in and pull apart their favorite pieces. Or, for a more polished vibe, gently lift out the loaf, slice it, and fan out the pieces on a pretty platter drizzled with extra glaze. If you’re bringing it to a party, tuck some parchment between the layers for grab-and-go snacking!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Since gluten free dough tends to dry out faster, be sure to seal it tightly—this will keep the bread soft and inviting for as long as possible.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap and then foil. Store in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and your future self will thank you.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, simply wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power for 15 to 20 seconds, or pop the loaf in a low oven until just heated through. A quick warm-up restores the bread’s soft texture and brings out all those cozy flavors again.
FAQs
Can I make Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite non-dairy milk and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative. The bread will still be fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.
Does my gluten-free flour blend need xanthan gum?
Yes—most gluten-free flour blends work best with xanthan gum for proper structure and elasticity. If your blend doesn’t already include it, add one teaspoon to the dry ingredients so your pull-apart bread holds together beautifully.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
You can! After stacking the dough in the loaf pan, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bring it up to room temperature for 30 minutes the next morning before baking, and it will rise perfectly.
My dough is really sticky. Is that normal?
Yes, gluten free bread doughs tend to be stickier than traditional ones. That’s why rolling between parchment paper makes things much easier. Try not to add extra flour, as the dough needs plenty of moisture for the best texture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The top should be richly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the bread starts to brown too quickly, tent it with a piece of foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that wows both the eyes and the taste buds, Gluten Free Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is truly a treat worth sharing. So gather your ingredients, cozy up in the kitchen, and let the aroma of cinnamon do its magic—I promise, everyone will be asking for seconds!
