Cinnabon Frosting Recipe Vegan and Deliciously Creamy

If you’re a fan of the iconic, luscious frosting that tops every Cinnabon cinnamon roll, but follow a vegan lifestyle, you’re in for a treat! Traditional Cinnabon frosting uses cream cheese and butter, making it off-limits for vegans.

But with a few clever swaps and wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a vegan version that’s just as creamy, sweet, and indulgent. This recipe captures the essence of that famous frosting—rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and tang.

Whether you’re topping homemade cinnamon rolls, drizzling over cakes, or simply spreading on toast, this vegan Cinnabon frosting will quickly become your go-to.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delightful vegan frosting, from the ingredients and equipment to detailed step-by-step instructions. Plus, don’t miss the tips, variations, and serving suggestions to elevate your baking game.

Ready to create frosting magic? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Cinnabon frosting recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving that classic, creamy topping without any animal products. It uses simple, plant-based ingredients that come together quickly, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

It’s incredibly versatile: Use it on cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, pancakes, or even as a dip for fresh fruit. The frosting balances sweetness with a subtle hint of vanilla and a touch of tang, reminiscent of traditional cream cheese frosting.

Healthier alternative: By using coconut cream and vegan butter, this frosting avoids dairy fat and cholesterol, while still maintaining that luscious texture. Plus, it’s free from eggs, making it allergy-friendly.

Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to make it your own. And it stores well, so you can prepare it ahead of time for your baking projects.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup vegan butter (softened, preferably unsalted)
• 4 oz vegan cream cheese (softened; brands like Kite Hill or Tofutti work great)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons full-fat coconut cream (from a chilled can)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon for extra warmth

Equipment

• Mixing bowl: Medium size, preferably glass or stainless steel
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: For smooth, creamy texture
• Sifter: To sift powdered sugar
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula: For scraping the bowl
• Refrigerator: To chill the coconut cream and to set the frosting if needed

Instructions

1. Chill the coconut cream: Place the can of coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. The thick cream will separate from the liquid and solidify at the top. Scoop out 2-3 tablespoons of this thick cream and set aside.
2. Soften the vegan butter and cream cheese: Remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before starting so they soften to room temperature, making them easier to whip.
3. Combine butter and cream cheese: In your mixing bowl, beat the softened vegan butter and vegan cream cheese together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add vanilla extract and salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a small pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
5. Sift and add powdered sugar gradually: Sift the powdered sugar to prevent clumps. Add it slowly to the butter mixture, beating on low speed at first to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase speed to medium. Continue until fully combined and creamy.
6. Incorporate coconut cream: Add 2 tablespoons of the chilled coconut cream and beat on medium speed. Check the consistency; if the frosting is too thick, add the remaining 1 tablespoon. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable but not runny.
7. Optional: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and mix well for a subtle spice note that complements cinnamon rolls perfectly.
8. Chill if needed: If the frosting feels too soft, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up before spreading or piping.
9. Use immediately or store: Spread on your favorite vegan cinnamon rolls or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: Always use full-fat coconut cream for best texture. Low-fat or light coconut milk won’t give the same rich consistency.

• Sweetness level: Adjust the powdered sugar to your taste. Start with 1 1/2 cups if you prefer less sweet and add more as needed.
• Nutty twist: For a richer flavor, add 1 tablespoon of cashew butter or almond butter to the frosting.
• Chocolate Cinnabon frosting: Mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon rolls.
• Spiced up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg along with cinnamon for a deeper spice profile.
• Dairy-free cream cheese substitute: If you can’t find vegan cream cheese, try blending soaked cashews with a little lemon juice and coconut cream as a homemade alternative.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Cinnabon frosting is a wonderful topping for freshly baked cinnamon rolls, giving them that irresistible creamy finish. You can also use it to frost cupcakes or layer it between cake layers for a decadent dessert.

Try spreading it on warm pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast treat. It also works beautifully as a dip for fruit slices like apples, pears, or strawberries.

For a fun twist, pipe the frosting onto vegan sugar cookies or use it to fill whoopie pies. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Making vegan Cinnabon frosting at home is easier than you might think, and the result is nothing short of magical. By swapping traditional dairy ingredients for vegan butter, cream cheese, and coconut cream, you get a frosting that’s just as creamy, flavorful, and indulgent as the original.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy their favorite cinnamon rolls or baked goods without compromising their plant-based lifestyle.

Not only does this frosting taste amazing, but it’s also highly adaptable—you can tweak the sweetness, add spices, or even create chocolate versions. And if you’re interested in pairing this vegan frosting with an equally satisfying cinnamon roll recipe, or exploring more savory dishes, check out my Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a wholesome side or the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.

For a tangy, spicy snack to balance your sweet treats, the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe is a must-try.

Happy frosting and baking!

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