Vegan Yeast Roll Recipe Easy and Fluffy Every Time

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’ve ever craved soft, fluffy, and warm rolls fresh out of the oven, you’ll be delighted to discover this vegan yeast roll recipe that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday feasts, or just a cozy snack, these rolls boast a tender crumb and a golden crust without any animal products.

Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply looking to try something new, these rolls will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Not only are these rolls wonderfully soft and airy, but they also have a subtle sweetness and rich flavor from simple pantry staples. The magic of yeast brings them to life, while plant-based milk and a touch of vegan butter keep them moist and tender.

Baking your own yeast rolls at home is surprisingly simple and rewarding, and this recipe will guide you through every step with ease.

Get ready to enjoy bakery-quality vegan rolls that are perfect served alongside soups, salads, or your favorite vegan main dishes. And if you love exploring more wholesome vegan recipes, check out my Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for more baking inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegan yeast rolls are a wonderful addition to any meal because they are:

  • Soft and fluffy: Achieved by the perfect balance of ingredients and proper kneading.
  • Easy to make: Even if you’re new to baking with yeast, the instructions are straightforward and beginner-friendly.
  • Totally vegan: No eggs, milk, or butter from animals — just plant-based alternatives you probably already have.
  • Versatile: Ideal for sandwiches, dinner sides, or even breakfast with jam or vegan butter.
  • Customizable: You can add herbs, garlic, or sweeteners to tailor the rolls to your taste.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by yeast baking, this recipe will change your mind. The gentle rise and kneading process allow you to develop confidence, and the reward is a batch of warm, homemade rolls that will impress any crowd.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 cup warm plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, or your choice)
  • 3 tablespoons sugar (can use cane sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup)
  • 4 tablespoons vegan butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh chopped herbs for flavor variations

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl for dough preparation
  • Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) or a sturdy wooden spoon for mixing
  • Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap for covering dough
  • Baking sheet or round cake pan for baking rolls
  • Pastry brush for brushing melted vegan butter
  • Cooling rack to cool the rolls

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In your large mixing bowl, combine the warm plant-based milk (around 110°F/43°C) with the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
  2. Mix the dough: Add 3 cups of the flour, melted vegan butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well using a wooden spoon or dough hook until the ingredients start to come together.
  3. Knead the dough: Gradually add the remaining ½ cup of flour, a little at a time, kneading either by hand on a floured surface or with a stand mixer on low speed. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is soft, slightly sticky, but elastic and smooth.
  4. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape the rolls: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release excess air. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a smooth ball. Arrange the balls on a greased baking sheet or in a round cake pan, leaving a little space between them.
  6. Second rise: Cover the shaped rolls again and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes until puffy.
  7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted vegan butter for a golden finish. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.
  8. Cool and serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and brush again with vegan butter. Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool slightly before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

“For the softest rolls, avoid adding too much extra flour during kneading — it’s better to have a slightly sticky dough that yields fluffier rolls.”

  • Flavor twists: Add minced garlic, chopped rosemary, or thyme to the dough for savory rolls perfect alongside soups and stews.
  • Sweet rolls: Mix in cinnamon and a tablespoon of maple syrup for a sweet breakfast treat. Serve with vegan cream cheese or jam.
  • Gluten-free option: Try substituting the flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but note that the texture will be slightly different.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the dough the night before, and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight. Shape and bake the next day for fresh rolls with less active rising time.
  • Storage: Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a sprinkle of water to retain softness.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Roll (approx.)
Calories 130 kcal
Carbohydrates 22 g
Protein 3 g
Fat 3.5 g
Fiber 1 g
Sugar 3 g
Sodium 170 mg

These rolls provide a balanced energy boost with moderate carbohydrates and fats, making them a satisfying addition to any meal without being overly heavy.

Serving Suggestions

Vegan yeast rolls are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:

  • Serve warm with a generous smear of vegan butter or your favorite jam for breakfast or tea time.
  • Use as sandwich buns for hearty vegan burgers or sloppy joes.
  • Complement a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup for a comforting lunch or dinner.
  • Accompany a festive vegan main course like a nut roast or mushroom Wellington.
  • Make mini sliders for parties or casual gatherings.

Conclusion

Baking your own vegan yeast rolls is a delightful way to bring fresh, homemade bread into your kitchen with minimal fuss. This recipe combines simple ingredients to produce soft, fluffy rolls with a tender crumb and delicious flavor.

Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast, a family dinner, or just a cozy snack, these rolls will impress with their texture and taste.

With the ability to customize flavors and the satisfaction of mastering yeast dough, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again. For more plant-based baking inspiration, try the Vegan Beignet Recipe: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious Treat or experiment with other vegan breads like the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy baking!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Yeast Roll Recipe

Description: Fluffy and soft vegan yeast rolls perfect for any meal. Easy to make and completely plant-based.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm plant-based milk (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine warm plant-based milk, yeast, and sugar; let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted vegan butter, applesauce, and vanilla extract; mix well.
  3. Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a dough forms.
  4. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  6. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces; shape into rolls.
  7. Place rolls on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Brush rolls with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Carbs: 27g

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Marta K

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