Vegemite scrolls are a beloved Australian snack that offer a perfect balance of salty, cheesy, and doughy goodness. But for those following a gluten free diet, enjoying this traditional treat can be a challenge. The good news is that gluten free Vegemite scrolls are not only possible they can be absolutely delicious with the right ingredients and a few baking tips. Whether you’re avoiding gluten due to celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or personal preference, these savory scrolls can easily become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Understanding Gluten Free Vegemite Scrolls
What Are Vegemite Scrolls?
Vegemite scrolls are a type of savory pastry roll made from soft dough, spread with Vegemite and sprinkled with cheese, then rolled up and baked. They’re often found in bakeries, lunchboxes, and snack trays across Australia. Traditionally made with wheat flour, these scrolls have a tender, fluffy texture and a strong umami flavor from the Vegemite, balanced by the richness of cheese.
What Makes Them Gluten Free?
To make gluten free Vegemite scrolls, wheat flour is replaced with a gluten free alternative, and all other ingredients must be verified gluten free. Vegemite itself is typically not gluten free, but there are certified gluten free versions on the market designed specifically for those with dietary restrictions. With the right substitutions, you can recreate the same taste and texture of the original version.
Ingredients for Gluten Free Vegemite Scrolls
Core Ingredients
Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need to make gluten free Vegemite scrolls at home:
- Gluten free self-raising flour (or a blend with baking powder)
- Plain Greek yogurt or milk (for a soft dough)
- Gluten free Vegemite or similar yeast spread
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and optional herbs for flavor
Some bakers prefer to use yeast-based gluten free doughs for extra rise, while others opt for quicker, no-yeast recipes using yogurt or buttermilk. Both methods can work depending on your preference for flavor and convenience.
Choosing the Right Gluten Free Flour
The flour blend you use can significantly impact the final result. A quality gluten free all-purpose flour should include a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour, often with xanthan gum or guar gum added for elasticity. Make sure your flour blend is labeled gluten free and certified safe for consumption by those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Make Gluten Free Vegemite Scrolls
Step-by-Step Instructions
Below is a simple method to make gluten free Vegemite scrolls from scratch:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of gluten free self-raising flour with 1 cup of Greek yogurt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough gently until smooth. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 1cm thick.
- Spread a thin layer of gluten free Vegemite across the surface of the dough. Don’t use too much Vegemite is strong!
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a log, then cut into scrolls about 23 cm wide.
- Place scrolls on the tray with the spiral side facing up. Optionally, top with a bit of extra cheese.
- Bake for 2025 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Let them cool slightly before serving. These scrolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, but they can also be stored and reheated later.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Keep your dough slightly moist but not sticky too dry and it will crumble, too wet and it won’t hold shape.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the scrolls cleanly without flattening them.
- If your gluten free flour doesn’t have xanthan gum, consider adding ½ teaspoon to help with structure.
Variations and Customization
Alternative Fillings
While the classic Vegemite and cheese combo is popular, you can easily adapt this recipe with different ingredients. Here are a few variations:
- Spinach and Feta: Replace Vegemite with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
- Pesto Scrolls: Use gluten free pesto and mozzarella for a herby twist.
- Ham and Cheese: Add thin slices of ham with cheddar for a more filling snack.
- Tomato Paste and Herbs: Swap Vegemite for tomato paste and sprinkle with oregano and parmesan.
Dairy Free and Vegan Options
If you’re avoiding dairy or following a plant-based diet, you can make these scrolls dairy free by using vegan cheese and a plant-based yogurt or milk. Make sure all substitutes are labeled gluten free as well.
Storage and Reheating
Keeping Scrolls Fresh
Once baked, gluten free Vegemite scrolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat them in a low oven or toaster oven to refresh the texture. Microwaving is an option, but it may make the dough a little rubbery.
Freezing Instructions
These scrolls freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Simply allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C for 1015 minutes or until heated through.
Why Gluten Free Vegemite Scrolls Are Worth Making
Diet-Friendly Comfort Food
One of the biggest challenges of going gluten free is missing out on nostalgic comfort foods. Gluten free Vegemite scrolls offer a solution that feels just as indulgent as the traditional version. They’re satisfying, flavorful, and portable perfect for school lunches, work snacks, or picnics.
Inclusive and Customizable
Having a versatile recipe like this one on hand makes entertaining much easier, especially if you need to accommodate various dietary needs. From gluten free to dairy free or vegetarian, you can adjust the filling and dough to suit everyone at the table.
Gluten free Vegemite scrolls prove that you don’t need to compromise flavor or texture to enjoy a classic snack. With the right ingredients and a few helpful tips, anyone can recreate this Aussie favorite in a gluten free form that even wheat-eaters will love. Whether you stick with the traditional Vegemite and cheese combo or branch out with your own fillings, these scrolls are a crowd-pleasing treat worth baking again and again.