Baking Powder and Baking Soda with Acid (Best Option)
1 teaspoon baking powder + 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar per 2 cups flourThis combination works because baking powder provides immediate leavening while baking soda reacts with the acid (apple cider vinegar) to produce additional carbon dioxide, mimicking yeast's leavening effect. The acid also helps tenderize the dough.
For best results, mix the acid into the wet ingredients and add the leavening agents just before baking to maximize rise. The dough will not require proofing time, so handle gently to retain gas bubbles.
The final cinnamon rolls will be softer and less chewy than yeast-based ones, with a cake-like crumb and slightly different flavor profile, but still enjoyable and fluffy.