What is the trick to making good gluten-free bread?

The key to great gluten-free bread is using a balanced flour blend (rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch), a binding agent like xanthan gum, and enough moisture. Letting the dough rest before baking also improves the texture.

What is the biggest challenge of making gluten-free bread?

The most common issue is lack of structure since gluten is responsible for elasticity in traditional dough. This can lead to crumbly, dense, or gummy textures, which is why using xanthan gum or psyllium husk is essential.

Are any breads naturally gluten-free?

Yes! Some breads that don’t require gluten substitutes include cornbread, Brazilian cheese bread (Pão de Queijo), and arepas. These breads use naturally gluten-free ingredients like cornmeal and tapioca flour.

What makes gluten-free bread fluffy?

Fluffiness comes from proper leavening. Using yeast, baking powder, and a small amount of vinegar helps the dough rise. Also, allowing enough resting time before baking improves the texture.

Why put vinegar in gluten-free bread?

Vinegar helps activate the yeast and improves the bread’s rise. It also breaks down proteins in gluten-free flours, making the dough lighter and softer. Just 1 teaspoon per batch is enough to see the benefits!

Gluten-Free Monkey Bread: Best Recipe & Baking Tips (2024)

Description

Gluten-Free Monkey Bread is a warm, gooey, and sweet pull-apart treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack. This delicious recipe delivers all the soft, cinnamon-sugar goodness of traditional monkey bread without the gluten. With the right gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum for structure, and a rich caramel coating, this monkey bread is as indulgent as the classic version. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just looking for a fun, homemade treat, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon xanthan gum (if not included in the flour blend)
¾ cup warm milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 large egg (or flax egg: 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
¼ cup melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free option)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup melted butter

For the Caramel Sauce:

½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup melted butter
2 tablespoons heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and xanthan gum.
In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, egg (or flax egg), melted butter, and vinegar.
Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Cover and let the dough rest for 30 minutes to allow the yeast to activate.

Step 2: Shape the Dough Balls

Grease a bundt pan or round baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for the coating.
Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls.
Dip each ball into melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Layer the coated dough balls in the greased pan.

Step 3: Add the Caramel Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat brown sugar, melted butter, and cream until smooth.
Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the dough balls.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Let cool for 5-10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Serve warm and enjoy your soft, gooey, and delicious gluten-free monkey bread!

Notes

Dairy-Free & Vegan Option: Use coconut oil or vegan butter, almond or oat milk, and a flax egg.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Flavor Variations: Add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for a twist!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Calories: ~320
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g