When I find myself craving comfort food, there’s nothing quite like the allure of pizza—especially when it’s wrapped in a warm, gluten-free bun! The idea for these Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns struck me during a busy week filled with takeout and stress. I yearned for something homemade that would satisfy my pizza cravings while also being a treat I could snack on anytime.
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy bun with gooey cheese spilling out, all nestled within a delightful crust. Not only are these buns easy to make, but they also invite customization—stack them with your favorite toppings or create a cheesy surprise that’ll leave your friends and family raving.
Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just tired of the same old fast food, these stuffed crust pizza buns will make your kitchen feel like a gourmet pizzeria without all the fuss. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the joy of making these delicious bites from scratch!
Why are Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns irresistible?
Soft and Chewy: Experience the perfect balance of tenderness from the buns and the melty cheese center; every bite is a pure joy!
Customizable Goodness: Stuff them with your favorite fillings or switch up the cheeses; the possibilities are endless!
Comfort Food with a Twist: Enjoy pizza flavors without the gluten—perfect for those looking for healthier options.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can whip these up quickly, saving you from fast-food fatigue.
Crowd-Pleasers: Serve these at parties, and watch guests delight in their gooeyness; they’ll disappear in no time!
So roll up your sleeves and try these Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns—your taste buds will thank you!
Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns Ingredients
For the Dough
- Psyllium husk – This ingredient helps bind the dough, providing a chewy texture essential for gluten-free baking.
- Lukewarm water – Activate the psyllium husk for the perfect dough consistency.
- Tapioca starch – Adds a chewy texture and acts as an important binder in gluten-free recipes.
- Millet flour – Offers a mild flavor and contributes to the dough’s structure.
- Sorghum flour – Works well in gluten-free baking, adding a slightly sweet taste to the buns.
- Caster sugar – A touch of sweetness helps balance the savory elements of the buns.
- Instant yeast – Ensures a good rise for fluffy buns without the waiting time of active yeast.
- Baking powder – Provides extra lift and crumb structure for a light texture.
- Xanthan gum – Acts as a binding agent, helping to mimic the elasticity of gluten.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity for better dough development.
- Whole milk, lukewarm – Adds richness and flavor, supporting a tender crumb.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dough.
- Olive oil – Provides moisture and enhances the flavor of the buns.
For the Filling
- Low-moisture mozzarella cheese – Coarsely grated for gooey, melty goodness that stretches with each bite.
- Cheddar cheese – Offers a sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
For the Egg Wash
- Egg (whisked) – Gives the buns a golden-brown, shiny finish when baked.
For the Toppings
- Tomato sauce – A classic pizza flavor, spooned inside to maximize deliciousness.
- Low-moisture mozzarella cheese – Extra cheese to top off the savory filling, making every bite indulgent.
- Cheddar cheese – More sharpness to balance the tomato sauce’s sweetness.
- Olives, sliced – Adds a briny, savory component that perfectly complements the cheesy filling.
These Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns will have your family and friends coming back for more. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of making pizza at home!
How to Make Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns
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Mix the psyllium husk and lukewarm water in a bowl until you form a gel. This step activates the psyllium, which will help bind your dough wonderfully.
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Whisk together the tapioca starch, millet flour, sorghum flour, caster sugar, instant yeast, baking powder, xanthan gum, and salt in a large bowl. This blend forms the foundation of your gluten-free dough.
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Combine the lukewarm milk, egg, and olive oil with the psyllium gel, stirring well until everything is smoothly mixed. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your chewiness.
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Knead by making a well in the dry ingredients and adding the psyllium gel-egg mixture. Knead for about 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Shape the dough into a ball on a floured surface, then divide into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, ensuring they’re uniform in size.
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Roll out each dough ball into a roughly 7-inch circle. Aim for even thickness for a consistent bake.
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Place the grated cheddar and mozzarella around the edges of the dough circle, leaving a ¾-inch border. This will create that irresistible cheesy stuffed crust.
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Fold the dough edges over the cheese and press firmly to seal them. Make sure it’s well-sealed to keep that gooey goodness inside!
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Arrange the buns on a lined baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Allow them to proof for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes; they should puff up nicely.
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Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). This ensures they will bake evenly to a golden perfection.
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Egg wash the edges of each bun. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce into each, add more cheese on top, and finish with sliced olives.
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Bake at 375ºF (190ºC) for 18-20 minutes until they’re golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly and irresistible.
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Cool the buns for 5-10 minutes before serving. Patience will reward you with the perfect cheesy pull!
Optional: Serve with extra tomato sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns Variations
Feel free to get creative with these buns and customize them to suit your taste! Your kitchen can transform into a flavor wonderland with these delightful twists.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese or coconut-based mozzarella for a creamy bite.
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Meaty Surprise: Add cooked sausage or pepperoni to the cheese mix for a savory punch that meat lovers will adore.
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Veggie Delight: Load up with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach inside for a burst of flavor and nutrition.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese for a fiery twist that will ignite your taste buds.
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Herbed Up: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or basil with the cheese for an aromatic flair that harks back to classic pizza flavors.
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Sweet and Savory: Try drizzling a bit of honey or using caramelized onions as a filling for an unexpected flavor combination.
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Flour Substitute: Use almond flour instead of millet or sorghum flour for a nutty taste and a protein boost. Just check your consistency!
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Breadstick Style: Roll the dough into long strips before filling to make twisted stuffed breadsticks perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match these variations to find your perfect combination—culinary adventure awaits!
What to Serve with Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns?
Picture a cozy dinner gathering where every bite delivers satisfaction and joy.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crisp on the outside and soft within, these complement the cheesy goodness while offering a delightful contrast.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the buns, adding a burst of freshness to your plate.
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Marinara Dipping Sauce: Perfect for dunking, this classic sauce enhances the pizza flavors, bringing an extra layer of zing to each bite.
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Roasted Vegetable Medley: The earthy flavors of roasted veggies create a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the indulgent stuffed buns.
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Italian Antipasto Platter: A colorful array of cured meats, cheeses, and olives tantalizes the senses and sparks conversation before your meal.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshingly sweet and tangy, this drink will cleanse your palate between bites and enhance the meal’s overall experience.
Indulge in these pairing ideas, and your gluten-free feast will become a cherished gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns
Room Temperature: These buns can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, store the pizza buns in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure they are in a sealed container to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns, simply reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Tips for the Best Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh psyllium husk and yeast for the best rise. Stale ingredients can lead to dense buns.
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Correct Temperature: Ensure all liquids are lukewarm. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly.
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Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough well for at least 4-5 minutes. This is essential for achieving the right texture in your gluten-free buns.
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Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the dough edges well. An open seam may result in cheese oozing out during baking, leading to less cheesy goodness.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the buns in the oven. Baking until golden brown not only adds flavor but also ensures the inside is fully cooked.
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Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to swap out the cheeses or add your favorite toppings to these Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns for delicious variety!
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns are perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough and shape the buns up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow steps 1-8 and arrange the buns on a lined baking sheet. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow the buns to proof at room temperature for about 1 hour before proceeding with steps 10-13. This not only saves you time but ensures the buns are just as delicious, with a fresh taste ready to be enjoyed straight from the oven!
Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, always opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients. When selecting your cheeses, I recommend low-moisture mozzarella and sharp cheddar. Look for cheeses that are firm and free from excess moisture to ensure a great melt. Additionally, make sure your egg is room temperature to aid in the mixing process, as this will help create a smooth dough.
How should I store leftover pizza buns?
Very good question! You can store these Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. If you’re looking to keep them for longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container where they’ll last up to a week. Just ensure that they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain moisture and texture.
Can I freeze these pizza buns?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is a fantastic option. To freeze, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. They can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, reheat directly from frozen by placing it in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You’ll find they taste almost as good as fresh!
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising well?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to several factors. Ensure that your instant yeast is fresh, as expired yeast won’t work effectively. Also, verify that your liquids were at the correct lukewarm temperature; too hot or too cold can hinder activation. If you feel that you’ve done everything right but it still isn’t rising, give it a little more time—sometimes it just needs those extra few minutes to puff up beautifully.
Are these pizza buns safe for those with allergies?
Great consideration! Since this recipe is gluten-free, it’s a suitable option for people with gluten sensitivities. However, if you or your guests have other dietary restrictions, such as dairy allergies, feel free to substitute the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives. Always check labels when using processed ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs, and definitely consult with your doctor or dietitian if you’re uncertain.
Can these buns be made vegan?
Definitely! To make these buns vegan, substitute the egg in the dough with flaxseed meal or a chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, left to sit for 5-10 minutes). You can also use plant-based cheeses to replace the dairy products. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
Gluten Free Stuffed Crust Pizza Buns that Delight Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the psyllium husk and lukewarm water in a bowl until you form a gel.
- Whisk together the tapioca starch, millet flour, sorghum flour, caster sugar, instant yeast, baking powder, xanthan gum, and salt in a large bowl.
- Combine the lukewarm milk, egg, and olive oil with the psyllium gel, stirring well until everything is smoothly mixed.
- Knead by making a well in the dry ingredients and adding the psyllium gel-egg mixture. Knead for about 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball on a floured surface, then divide into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
- Roll out each dough ball into a roughly 7-inch circle.
- Place the grated cheddar and mozzarella around the edges of the dough circle, leaving a ¾-inch border.
- Fold the dough edges over the cheese and press firmly to seal them.
- Arrange the buns on a lined baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Allow them to proof for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC).
- Egg wash the edges of each bun. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce into each, add more cheese on top, and finish with sliced olives.
- Bake at 375ºF (190ºC) for 18-20 minutes until they’re golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool the buns for 5-10 minutes before serving.
