When the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through the kitchen, there’s an undeniable magic that fills the air, a sense of warmth and home that is both comforting and inviting. Hi there, I’m Ellen Allard, and I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that has brought such joy into my life and I hope will do the same for yours. Working at Foodies of New England, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring an array of culinary treasures, but it’s the simple, rustic beauty of Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls that has captured my heart—and my taste buds!
These gluten-free crusty artisan rolls are more than just a recipe to me; they’re a celebration of inclusivity at the dinner table. Whether due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or personal dietary choices, many of us have had to navigate the often challenging waters of gluten-free baking. It can be disheartening to watch others tear into a chunk of chewy bread, knowing that your own options might be limited to alternatives that sometimes lack that satisfying crunch or the airy pockets found in traditional wheat-based loaves.
Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls
Equipment
- oven
- 1 stand mixer
- 1 separate cup or bowl
- 1 large cookie sheet
- 1 plastic wrap
- 3 medium or large cast iron oven-safe
- 1 cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon rapid rise yeast
- ½ cup raisins
- Zest 1 orange
- 2 cups water about 100 degrees
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees. While it is preheating, place 3 medium or large cast iron oven-safe covered pots into oven. As an alternative to the cast iron pots, you can bake the rolls on a large preheated cookie sheet or several pizza stones.
- In a stand mixer, on a low speed, blend the package of Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Hearty Grain Bread Mix with the baking powder, salt, yeast, raisins and orange zest.
- In a separate cup or bowl, mix the water and apple cider vinegar. With the stand mixer on a low speed, add the liquid, slowly increasing the speed to high and then mixing for 3 minutes. It might be very sticky and wet, and appear to have the consistency of paper mache. Dip a rubber spatula into water and use it to scrape down the dough as needed.
- When fully blended, scoop out 12 rolls of dough (+/- depending on the size roll you desire). Use extra flour on your hands if the dough is too sticky to handle. Place rolls on a large cookie sheet, cover with plastic wrap and place in a warm spot for 30 minutes, while the oven and cast iron pots are preheating. It helps to spray the underside of the plastic wrap with vegetable spray to make it easier to remove the plastic wrap before baking the rolls.
- After 30 minutes, gently scrape dough onto surface dusted with rice flour. Using slightly damp and floured hands, shape the dough into small round rolls. The amount of dough you use for each roll will dictate the number of rolls this recipe yields. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut two lines (creating a plus sign) into the surface of each roll.
- Remove the preheated cast iron pot from stove, and remove the lid. When moving the rolls of dough into the cast iron pots, use a floured hard spatula to ease each one off the counter and into your hands. Gently cradle the dough and then drop it into the cast iron pot. If necessary, you can re-carve the lines. If using a cookie sheet or pizza stone, you can shape the rolls and place on a piece of parchment paper dusted with flour and then move the parchment paper onto the cookie sheet or pizza stone. Replace the cover once again onto the pots and place into preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes then remove lids and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Remove from pan and place on cooling rack. Wait until the rolls have reached room temperature to eat, as gluten free baked goods can be sticky and tacky when they first comes out of the oven.
Video
Notes
Alternative Methods
Exploring alternative methods for preparing Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls can be a delightful experiment, offering a chance to adapt the recipe to different tastes and circumstances. The joy of baking is often found in the journey of discovery, as we tweak and refine our approach to suit our individual preferences and the tools at our disposal.
One intriguing variation is to use a Dutch oven for baking the Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls. The enclosed space of the Dutch oven captures steam naturally released by the dough, creating an environment similar to professional steam-injected ovens. This method can lead to an even more pronounced crust, which many Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls enthusiasts cherish. To try this, simply preheat the Dutch oven in the oven, carefully place your shaped rolls inside, cover with the lid, and bake. The result is often a roll with a beautifully blistered crust and a tender interior that sings with each bite.
For those who enjoy a more hands-off approach, a bread machine with a gluten-free setting can be a convenient alternative. While the texture may differ slightly from the handcrafted method, the bread machine offers a level of consistency and ease that can be quite appealing on busy days. Just add the ingredients to the machine, select the appropriate setting, and let it do the work of mixing, kneading, and even baking if you choose.
Cooking Tips
Embarking on the adventure of baking Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls, one quickly learns that this process is as much about heart as it is about precision. The journey to perfecting these rolls is paved with patience and a sprinkle of creativity, allowing us to reimagine what gluten-free baking can be.
The first tip I’d love to share is the importance of the right flour blend. Gluten-free baking is a delicate art, and the choice of flour can make or break your rolls. Look for a high-quality all-purpose gluten-free flour that includes a mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and perhaps a touch of xanthan gum to mimic the elasticity that gluten provides. This foundation is crucial for achieving that desirable chewy texture without the gluten.
Hydration is another key element. Gluten-free doughs often require more moisture to prevent them from becoming too dense. Don’t be alarmed if your dough feels a bit stickier than what you might expect from traditional wheat dough. This extra tackiness is normal and necessary for creating those lovely air pockets that give our rolls their lightness.
When it comes to rising, patience truly is a virtue. Gluten-free doughs can take a little longer to rise, so give them time and a warm, draft-free environment. This slow rise allows the yeast to do its magic, imparting flavor and helping to develop a good structure. Remember, the dough may not double in size like wheat-based doughs, but it will still puff up nicely.
Baking in a hot oven is essential for achieving that beautiful crust. Preheating your oven along with a baking stone or a cast-iron skillet can provide the high heat needed to create a crisp exterior. Introducing steam during the initial baking phase can also help to develop a shiny, crackly crust. Simply placing a pan of water in the oven will do the trick.
Lastly, embrace the imperfections. Each roll is unique, with its own character and charm. They may not all look uniform, but that’s the beauty of artisan baking—it’s rustic and real. And when you pull those golden-brown Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls out of the oven, the sense of accomplishment and the joy of sharing your creation with others is immeasurable.
The Best Way to Serve Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls
Serving these Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls is an opportunity to showcase their versatility and the love that went into baking them. Picture your table adorned with a basket of these golden beauties, steam rising as they’re broken open, ready to be savored by all.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy these Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls is straight from the oven, the exterior still crackling as it cools. The warmth of the bread as it meets a pat of butter is simply divine—the way the butter melts into the nooks and crannies, creating a rich and comforting experience with each bite.
For a heartier option, consider pairing these rolls with a bowl of homemade soup or stew. The sturdy crust makes them perfect for dipping, soaking up the flavors while maintaining their texture. It’s a humble yet deeply satisfying meal that brings solace on a chilly day.
These Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls also make an excellent base for an array of sandwiches. Fill them with your choice of fresh vegetables, a spread of creamy hummus, or a generous helping of deli meats and cheese. The robust crust holds up well to even the most lavish fillings, ensuring a delightful crunch with every mouthful.
For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, try serving the rolls with a selection of jams or a drizzle of honey. The subtle sweetness complements the bread’s natural flavor, making for a light breakfast or a delightful afternoon treat alongside a cup of tea.
And let’s not forget the role these Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls can play in special occasions. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual brunch, they can be sliced and used as a base for elegant canapés or served whole as part of a charcuterie board, adding a gluten-free option that everyone can appreciate.
FAQs
When it comes to Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls, there are often many questions that arise from both seasoned bakers and those new to the gluten-free scene. Here are some frequently asked questions that might help guide you through the process of making these delightful rolls.
- What is the best way to store Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls? To maintain the freshness and texture of your Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls, it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive that crisp crust.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing, you can refrigerate the dough overnight, which may actually enhance the flavor due to the slow fermentation. Allow the dough to come back to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the final rise.
- Why did my Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls not rise as much as expected? Gluten-free doughs don’t behave exactly like their gluten-containing counterparts. They generally don’t rise as much, and that’s perfectly normal. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that you’ve given the dough a warm and draft-free environment to rise. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can sometimes deflate the air bubbles that contribute to rising.
- Is it necessary to use xanthan gum in the recipe? Xanthan gum acts as a binder and helps provide the elasticity and stickiness that gluten typically offers in bread dough. While it’s not always necessary, it does help to create a better texture in gluten-free baked goods. If you prefer not to use it, look for a gluten-free flour blend that already includes it or another similar binder like guar gum.
- Can I add other ingredients to the dough, like seeds or herbs? Absolutely! Adding ingredients like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or dried herbs can add lovely flavors and textures to your rolls. Just be mindful of the quantities, as too much additional dry material can affect the moisture balance of the dough.
As we wrap up our journey through the art of baking Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls, I hope you feel inspired and equipped with the tips and insights to create these delightful treats in your own kitchen. Each roll you bake is a testament to the beauty of gluten-free cuisine and the joy that comes from crafting food that everyone can enjoy.
At Foodies of New England, we celebrate the diversity of culinary experiences and the shared pleasure that comes from a well-prepared meal. These Gluten Free Crusty Artisan Rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a symbol of the care we put into our cooking and the inclusive spirit that guides our philosophy. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty soup or simply enjoying them with a dab of butter, these rolls are sure to bring a touch of artisanal charm to any table.