As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon began wafting through the air, stirring memories of cozy mornings and warm pastries. The best part? I created this magic with just five ingredients! This 5-Ingredient Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll is a delightful single-serve treat that satisfies my sweet tooth without the fuss of making a whole batch. Perfectly portioned for when cravings hit, it’s not only quick to whip up—ready in under 20 minutes—but can also be made vegan for those seeking alternatives. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast indulgence or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this cinnamon roll is here to bring a smile to your face. Curious about how to make this cozy creation? Let’s dive in! Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Deliciously Quick: You can whip up this indulgent cinnamon roll in under 20 minutes, making it the perfect sweet fix for sudden cravings. Five Simple Ingredients: Using just pantry staples, making this treat is a breeze! No complicated shopping required. Versatile Options: With easy adaptations for gluten-free and vegan diets, everyone can enjoy this cozy delight. Single Serve Convenience: No need to share—this recipe is designed just for you! Perfect for a solo snack or a sweet breakfast. Crowd-Pleasing Aroma: The scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home will make anyone’s mouth water, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy it as is or top it off with a drizzle of glaze for an even sweeter treat! Cinnamon Roll Ingredients For the Dough • Self-Rising Flour – Provides the structure for the roll; substitute with all-purpose flour + 1/2 teaspoon baking powder if needed. • Greek Yogurt – Adds moisture and binds the ingredients; can be substituted with non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option. • Butter – Adds richness and flavor; switch to softened vegan butter for a dairy-free version. For the Filling • Sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon roll; adjust to taste, but it’s best to divide it into portions for both filling and dough. • Cinnamon – Gives the characteristic flavor of a cinnamon roll; maintaining this is key for authenticity. Optional Topping • Powdered Sugar – For an extra touch of sweetness; can be mixed with a little water for a glaze. • Maple Syrup – Drizzle over your warm roll for an indulgent finish that complements the cinnamon. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, grease a small ramekin or microwave-safe mug with a bit of butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal of your warm cinnamon roll later. This preparation sets the stage for that gooey goodness you’ll soon create! Step 2: Combine Ingredients In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of self-rising flour, ¼ cup of Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir these ingredients together until a soft dough forms, ensuring that you incorporate everything well. If the dough seems dry, add a touch more yogurt to reach a sticky consistency. Step 3: Shape the Dough Lightly flour a clean surface before turning out your dough. Gently flatten it into a rectangle about 3×6 inches in size. Use your palms to stretch it out evenly, making sure it’s thick enough to hold the filling but not too thick, as you want it to bake perfectly and remain fluffy. Step 4: Add Filling Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly over the flattened dough. Don’t skimp on this step, as it adds richness. Next, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar mixed with cinnamon generously across the surface. Ensure every bit of dough is covered with this sweet mixture for that classic cinnamon roll flavor. Step 5: Roll It Up Starting from one of the short ends, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log shape. This folding action creates those beautiful swirls of cinnamon and sugar. Once rolled, place your filled dough seam-side down into the greased ramekin, giving it a cozy spot to rise and bake. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Slide your filled ramekin into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cinnamon roll is done when the top is lightly golden and the edges are firm to the touch. You’ll know that delicious aroma is filling the kitchen when it’s nearing completion! Step 7: Cool and Enjoy Once baked, remove the cinnamon roll from the oven and allow it to cool slightly, about 5 minutes. This cooling period helps you avoid burns while enjoying your treat. Top it off with a drizzle of powdered sugar glaze or a splash of maple syrup if desired, adding both sweetness and flair to your single serve cinnamon roll. Make Ahead Options These delightful single serve cinnamon rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the self-rising flour, yogurt, and sugar, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator (this prevents browning and maintains texture). When you’re ready to enjoy your treat, simply roll out the dough, add the filling, and bake as directed. For a super quick morning treat, prep the cinnamon roll filling separately and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to indulge, roll it up and bake to enjoy a deliciously warm cinnamon roll in no time! Cinnamon Roll Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your cinnamon roll, enhancing the flavors and textures to suit your taste buds! Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend for a suitable option. Just ensure it contains a leavening agent! Vegan Yogurt: Replace Greek yogurt with your favorite non-dairy yogurt to make this recipe completely vegan. It’s just as creamy and delightful! Sweetener Switch: Use coconut sugar or honey instead of regular sugar for different sweetness levels and a slight flavor twist. This simple switch can make a tasteful difference. Nutty Crunch: Add 2 tablespoons of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the filling for that extra crunch. The nuttiness beautifully complements the sweet dough. Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon mixture for a warm, aromatic twist. Each bite will surprise you with a cozy depth of flavor. Microwave Option: For an even quicker treat, cook your rolled dough in a mug in the microwave for about 1-1.5 minutes. Perfect for those very last-minute cravings! Fruit Filling: Instead of a traditional filling, add sliced apples or raisins for a fruity twist. These add delightful moisture and a flavor surprise with each bite. Glazed Finish: Top your finished cinnamon roll with a drizzle of homemade vanilla glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. It makes each slice look and taste divine! Looking for a sweet dish to pair with your cinnamon roll? Check out my recipes for Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins and Cinnamon Swirl Bundt that give a delightful nod to the flavors of cinnamon rolls! Storage Tips for Cinnamon Roll Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, store the cinnamon roll at room temperature for up to 1 day in a cool, dry place, covered lightly. Fridge: If you have leftovers, place the cinnamon roll in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds before serving. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cinnamon roll tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy your cinnamon roll again, warm it in the microwave for 15-30 seconds or until heated through for that fresh-baked taste! Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Perfect Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is sticky but not overly wet for optimal texture. If it feels too dry, add a little more yogurt gradually. Baking Time Vigilance: Keep a close eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Ideally, the top should be golden, not dark brown. Microwave Shortcut: For a quick fix, use your microwave—heat the rolled dough in a mug for 1-1.5 minutes on high, adjusting based on your microwave’s wattage. Flavor Exploration: Don’t hesitate to play with flavors! Incorporate applesauce or bananas for moisture, or add nuts and raisins for extra crunch in your cinnamon roll. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a delightful treat again! What to Serve with 5-Ingredient Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Imagine savoring a warm, gooey treat paired with just the right accompaniments to elevate your indulgent experience. Fresh Fruit Bowl: Bright fruits like berries or sliced bananas add a refreshing contrast to the sweet cinnamon roll and enhance its flavors. Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free topping perfectly complements the warm roll, offering a luxurious finish that’s irresistible. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew brings out the cinnamon notes, creating a cozy vibe that pairs beautifully with your roll. Creamy Oatmeal: Serve alongside a small bowl of oatmeal for a hearty breakfast; the flavors harmonize and keep you satisfied through the morning. Maple Drizzle: Enhance your cinnamon roll with a drizzling of pure maple syrup, infusing extra sweetness and warmth. Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a light chocolate drizzle elevates the indulgence, adding richness and depth to the already delightful treat. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch, textural contrast, and an extra layer of flavor to your comforting cinnamon roll experience. Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea or chai creates a calming atmosphere, making each bite feel like a warm hug. Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert twist, a scoop of vanilla ice cream served on the side can transform your roll into a fabulous treat! Single Serve Cinnamon Roll Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ripeness for the yogurt? Absolutely! For this recipe, it’s best to use plain Greek yogurt, which should be fresh and not past its expiration date. Ideally, it should be smooth and creamy, without any off-smells or flavors. If you’re substituting with non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option, choose a brand with a similar thickness to maintain the texture of your roll. How should I store my leftovers? Very! If you have any leftover cinnamon roll, the best method is to place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This way, it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just pop it in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds to warm it back up, and you’ll have that lovely aroma in no time! Can I freeze the cinnamon roll? Yes, I often freeze these delicious treats! To do so, wrap the cooled cinnamon roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave until warm. What if my dough is too dry or too wet? No worries! If you find that the dough is too dry, simply add a little more yogurt, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a sticky but manageable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too wet, you can mix in a touch more self-rising flour. Aim for a dough that holds its shape but is still tender to the touch. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe can be made vegan by substituting Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt and using vegan butter. Additionally, always check for gluten-free flour options if you have gluten sensitivities. Always read labels to ensure that your ingredients are free from allergens like nuts or dairy if you’re cooking for someone with allergies. Can I make this recipe in the microwave? Yes! For a quick treat, you can prepare the rolled dough in a microwave-safe mug instead of baking it in an oven. Microwave on high for about 1-1.5 minutes, adjusting the time based on your microwave’s wattage. Make sure to keep an eye on it as it cooks, so you don’t overdo it. Enjoy! Decadent Single Serve Cinnamon Roll in Under 20 Minutes This delicious single serve cinnamon roll is made with five simple ingredients and is ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for satisfying your cinnamon cravings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 1 cinnamon rollCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients1/2 cup Self-Rising Flour Can substitute with all-purpose flour + 1/2 teaspoon baking powder1/4 cup Greek Yogurt Can substitute with non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option1 tablespoon Butter Can use softened vegan butter for a dairy-free versionFilling Ingredients2 tablespoons Sugar Sweetens the roll, can adjust to taste1 tablespoon Cinnamon Key flavor for authenticityOptional Topping1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar Can mix with a little water for glaze1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Drizzle for extra indulgence Equipment OvenMixing bowlRamekin or Microwave-Safe Mug Method Cinnamon Roll InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small ramekin or microwave-safe mug.In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of self-rising flour, 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar until a soft dough forms.Lightly flour a clean surface, turn out the dough, and flatten it into a rectangle about 3x6 inches.Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter over the flattened dough and sprinkle with the remaining sugar mixed with cinnamon.Roll the dough tightly into a log shape and place it seam-side down in the greased ramekin.Bake for 15-18 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the edges are firm.Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then top with powdered sugar glaze or maple syrup if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1cinnamon rollCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesFor quick prep, this cinnamon roll can also be made in the microwave by heating rolled dough in a mug for 1-1.5 minutes on high. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
