If you’ve ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey, and utterly delicious cinnamon roll, but want to keep it plant-based and cruelty-free, this Cinnaholic vegan cinnamon roll recipe is just what you need.
These rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with a cinnamon-sugar swirl that’s perfectly balanced by a luscious vegan frosting. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply craving a healthier twist on a classic treat, these cinnamon rolls will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromise.
Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that rely on eggs and butter, this recipe uses wholesome plant-based ingredients that create the same irresistible texture and flavor. Best of all, it’s approachable enough for bakers of all levels, making it a perfect weekend project or a comforting breakfast surprise.
Let’s dive into the magic of making these dreamy vegan cinnamon rolls right in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These vegan cinnamon rolls are a game-changer for several reasons:
- Fluffy and tender: Thanks to the perfect blend of plant-based milk and oil, these rolls are airy and soft, just like the classic version.
- Rich cinnamon swirl: The filling uses brown sugar and cinnamon for an authentic, mouthwatering flavor that melts in your mouth.
- Decadent vegan frosting: A creamy, dairy-free frosting tops each roll, making every bite a little celebration.
- Allergy-friendly: No eggs or dairy means this recipe suits vegan and lactose-intolerant friends and family.
- Easy to customize: You can add nuts, raisins, or swap the filling spices to make it your own.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup warm almond milk (or any plant milk), about 110°F
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- For the Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp vegan butter, softened
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp vegan cream cheese
- 2 tbsp vegan butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp plant milk (to thin)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
- Rolling pin
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Small bowl for frosting
- Whisk or electric hand mixer
- Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm almond milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the dough: Add the oil, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside the softened vegan butter for spreading.
- Roll out the dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
- Spread the filling: Evenly spread the softened vegan butter over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top.
- Roll and cut: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Second rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and plant milk until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and serve: Once slightly cooled (but still warm), generously spread the frosting over the rolls. Serve immediately for the best gooey experience.
Tips & Variations
For an extra fluffy dough, make sure your plant milk is warm but not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast.
- Nutty boost: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
- Raisin or cranberry twist: Sprinkle dried fruit over the filling before rolling up.
- Maple frosting: Swap vanilla extract for pure maple syrup in the frosting for a different flavor.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but note the texture may differ slightly.
- Make ahead: Prepare the rolls and refrigerate after the second rise. Bake fresh the next morning.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Roll (1/12th) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon rolls are heavenly on their own, but you can elevate your experience with a few serving ideas:
- Pair with a steaming cup of coffee or chai latte for a cozy morning treat.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit or a berry compote to add brightness.
- For a decadent dessert, warm the rolls slightly and drizzle with extra vegan caramel or chocolate sauce.
- Make a brunch spread featuring these rolls with tofu scramble and roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Making vegan cinnamon rolls from scratch is a rewarding and delicious experience, and this recipe proves that plant-based baking can be just as indulgent as traditional versions. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have fluffy, sweet, and perfectly spiced rolls that everyone will love.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a lazy Sunday morning, these cinnaholic vegan cinnamon rolls will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Don’t forget to check out some of our other delicious recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for hearty veggie inspiration, or try the savory Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a comforting meal. If you love pickled treats, the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe is a tangy delight you won’t want to miss!
📖 Recipe Card: Cinnaholic Vegan Cinnamon Roll
Description: Deliciously soft and fluffy vegan cinnamon rolls with a sweet cinnamon filling and creamy frosting. Perfect for a plant-based breakfast or dessert.
Prep Time: PT30M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 8 rolls
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm almond milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp vegan cream cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp almond milk (for frosting consistency)
Instructions
- Activate yeast by combining it with warm almond milk and sugar; let sit 5 minutes.
- Mix in melted vegan butter, flour, and salt; knead dough until smooth.
- Let dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Roll dough into a rectangle and spread softened vegan butter over it.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
- Roll dough tightly and cut into 8 equal rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for 15 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix powdered sugar, vegan cream cheese, vanilla, and almond milk to make frosting.
- Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 48 g
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