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Gluten Free Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

4.8 from 54 reviews

These Gluten Free Hawaiian Rolls are soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet rolls made with pineapple juice for natural sweetness and moisture. Perfectly suited for those avoiding gluten, they feature a tender crumb thanks to psyllium husk and xanthan gum, which help replicate the texture of traditional bread. A delicious homemade alternative to store-bought rolls, they are ideal for sandwiches, sliders, or simply enjoyed warm with butter.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 250 ml pineapple juice
  • 2 tbsp caster sugar
  • 150 ml warm water
  • 5 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 20 g unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)

Dry Ingredients

  • 7 g dried yeast
  • 10 g whole psyllium husk
  • 400 g FREEE gluten free white bread flour
  • 1 tsp xanthan gum
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: Pour the pineapple juice into a bowl or jug and warm it to approximately 40°C (warm to the touch, not hot). Stir in the caster sugar, then add the dried yeast. Cover with a tea towel and leave in a warm spot for 5-10 minutes until the yeast froths, indicating activation.
  2. Prepare the psyllium husk gel: In a separate bowl, combine the whole psyllium husk with warm water. Stir and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens into a gel-like consistency. This ingredient helps provide structure and moisture in gluten-free baking.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten free white bread flour, xanthan gum, and salt until evenly combined.
  4. Combine wet ingredients: In another small bowl or mug, lightly whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, and apple cider vinegar until blended.
  5. Form the dough: Once the yeast mixture is frothy and active, add it to the dry ingredients along with the egg-oil mixture and the psyllium husk gel. Using a wooden spoon, vigorously beat the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it forms a thick, sticky dough without lumps. For easier mixing, a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook can be used.
  6. Divide and shape the dough: Lightly dust your work surface with gluten free flour. Scrape the sticky dough onto the surface using an oiled dough scraper or spatula. Shape the dough into a rough ball, then divide it evenly into 9 portions. Lightly flour your hands and roll each portion into a smooth ball, adding minimal flour to prevent sticking.
  7. Arrange and proof the rolls: Lightly oil an 8-inch (20 cm) square cake tin. Place the dough balls in the tin in three rows of three, leaving a little space between each. Cover the tin loosely with oiled clingfilm and then with a tea towel. Leave in a warm, draft-free spot to rise for 40-60 minutes, until the rolls have doubled in size.
  8. Preheat oven and prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C) or Gas Mark 6. Remove the clingfilm from the dough, then brush the tops of the rolls generously with melted butter.
  9. Bake the rolls: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
  10. Finish and cool: Remove the tray from the oven and immediately brush the rolls with additional melted butter to add shine and extra richness. Allow the rolls to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture. They are best enjoyed warm.

Notes

  • Use a food thermometer to ensure the pineapple juice is warmed to about 40°C to effectively activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Psyllium husk acts as a binder in gluten-free baking, helping to improve dough elasticity and moisture retention.
  • Minimal extra flour should be added when rolling out the dough balls to prevent drying out the rolls.
  • These rolls are best served warm and can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • The pineapple juice adds natural sweetness and a subtle tropical flavor that complements the soft texture of the rolls.

Keywords: Gluten Free Hawaiian Rolls, Pineapple Rolls, Gluten Free Bread, Soft Rolls, Homemade Hawaiian Rolls