Gluten-Free Herbed Pull-Apart Rolls: Perfect for Sharing (and Impressing!)

Hey friends!

Let's be real: gluten-free baking can sometimes feel like navigating a minefield. Dry textures, weird aftertastes…we've all been there. But I'm here to tell you that these Gluten-Free Herbed Pull-Apart Rolls are *anything* but! They are soft, fluffy, and absolutely bursting with savory flavor.

I honestly didn't think a gluten-free pull-apart roll could taste this good! This recipe came about because my sister-in-law went gluten-free a few years ago, and I wanted to make something special for our holiday gatherings that she (and everyone else!) would adore. After several attempts (and a few epic baking fails!), I finally nailed a recipe so delicious, that even the gluten-lovers in my family don't realize it's gluten-free. Shhh! Let's keep that our secret.

These rolls are perfect for any gathering, from Thanksgiving dinner to a casual brunch or even just as a tasty side with a cozy bowl of soup. Imagine the aroma filling the air, the anticipation building as you pull apart a warm, herby roll... Trust me, they're a surefire crowd-pleaser.

So, ditch those gluten-free baking fears and let's get baking!

Here's What You'll Need:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (that's one standard packet)
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup, if you prefer!)
• 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum (I recommend a blend designed for bread baking, like Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour – *not* the pizza blend! If your blend doesn't contain xantham gum, add a teaspoon).
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (I love a mix of rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing

Let's Bake! The Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and honey. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This means your yeast is alive and kicking! If it *doesn't* foam, your yeast might be old and you'll need to start with a fresh batch.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In mixing bowl (or a large bowl if mixing by hand), whisk together the gluten-free flour, salt.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a small seperate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, and eggs.
4. Mix the Ingredients: Add flour and wet mixtures into the yeast mixture, using a stand mixer with the dough hook or a reliable hand mixer in a large bowl. Beat for 1-2 minutes until a relatively smooth dough forms. Don't worry if it's a bit sticky, that's perfectly normal for gluten-free dough.
5. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. Patience is key here!
6. Prepare the Herb Mixture: While the dough is rising, in a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, and minced garlic. This is where all that lovely flavor comes from!
7. Assemble the Rolls: Grease a 9-inch round cake pan (or a similar sized baking dish). Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, gently shape the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12-15 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, dip it in the melted butter, then roll it in the herb mixture. Place the coated balls in the prepared cake pan, arranging them close together.
8. Second Rise: Cover the assembled rolls with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes.
9. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach around 200°F (93°C). If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil.
10. Serving: Let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. The best part? Pulling them apart and enjoying that warm, herby goodness!

Tips & Tricks for Gluten-Free Pull-Apart Perfection:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a little kick.
• Cheese Please!: Experiment with different cheeses! Asiago, mozzarella, or even a vegan cheese alternative would be delicious.
• Garlic Lover's Dream: Roast the garlic before mincing it for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
• Herb Variations: Use any combination of fresh herbs you like! Chives, oregano, or dill would also work well.
• No Round Pan?: Don't worry; a square baking dish will work just fine.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dough and assemble the rolls ahead of time. Cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Ensure your ingredients are fresh: This help guarantee a great bread

I hope you love these rolls as much as we do! Happy baking!