There’s something magical about cinnamon rolls — their warm, gooey centers and fragrant cinnamon swirl make them irresistible. But if you’re following a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking to cut out dairy and eggs, traditional cinnamon rolls might seem out of reach.
Fear not! This vegan cinnamon roll recipe is here to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on taste or texture.
Soft, fluffy, and bursting with cinnamon-spiced goodness, these rolls are perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time you want a cozy homemade treat.
Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe creates cinnamon rolls that rival any classic bakery version. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a newbie in the kitchen, the step-by-step instructions ensure success.
Plus, the luscious vegan icing adds the perfect finishing touch. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in a batch of dreamy, plant-based cinnamon rolls that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan cinnamon roll recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses plant-based alternatives that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture, making it ideal for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.
The dough is incredibly soft and fluffy thanks to the use of non-dairy milk and a little bit of apple cider vinegar, which helps create a tender crumb.
Secondly, the cinnamon filling is rich and perfectly balanced with brown sugar and warming spices, ensuring each bite is a delightful mix of sweet and spicy. The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any exotic ingredients, so you can easily make it in your own kitchen.
Finally, the vegan cream cheese glaze adds a creamy, tangy finish that makes these rolls truly irresistible.
All in all, these cinnamon rolls are moist, flavorful, and utterly satisfying — a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat, or your choice)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons vegan butter, softened
- For the Icing:
- ⅓ cup vegan cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons non-dairy milk (to thin)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
- Rolling pin
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Small bowl for icing
- Pastry brush or spoon for spreading filling
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm non-dairy milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
- Make the dough: Add the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add 3 cups of flour, stirring well to combine. If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and mix on low speed. Add additional flour ¼ cup at a time until the dough pulls away from the sides and is soft but not sticky.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead for about 4-5 minutes. Form the dough into a ball.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside the softened vegan butter for spreading.
- Roll out the dough: Once risen, punch the dough down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 16×12 inches in size.
- Spread the filling: Use a pastry brush or spatula to evenly spread the softened vegan butter over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Form the rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam closed. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Second rise: Place the rolls cut side up into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Make the icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough non-dairy milk to create a smooth, pourable glaze.
- Glaze and serve: Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle the icing generously over the warm rolls and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
For fluffier rolls, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch or potato starch to the dough—it helps keep the texture soft and tender.
If you want a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts along with the cinnamon sugar before rolling.
Try substituting maple syrup or agave nectar in place of granulated sugar for a naturally sweet flavor.
For a citrusy hint, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the filling or icing.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Roll (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 8 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
Sugar | 18 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Serving Suggestions
These vegan cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for a comforting breakfast or mid-afternoon treat.
They also pair wonderfully with a glass of cold almond milk or your favorite plant-based latte.
For a festive touch, try topping with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a handful of toasted coconut flakes. If you want to turn them into a brunch centerpiece, serve with fresh fruit salad and a variety of vegan spreads.
Looking for more plant-based baking inspiration? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for more delightful treats.
Conclusion
Making vegan cinnamon rolls at home is easier than you might think, and the results are simply mouthwatering. This recipe yields soft, fluffy rolls with a rich cinnamon filling and a creamy vegan cream cheese glaze that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Whether you’re baking for special occasions or a weekend indulgence, these rolls bring warmth and sweetness to any table.
By using simple plant-based ingredients, you get all the comfort of classic cinnamon rolls without dairy or eggs, making them perfect for vegans and anyone looking to eat a little healthier. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make this recipe your own.
Happy baking!
For more wonderful plant-based recipes to explore, visit our collection of Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Cinnamon Roll Recipe
Description: Soft and fluffy vegan cinnamon rolls with a sweet cinnamon filling and creamy glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT45M
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 almond milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm almond milk with 1 tbsp sugar; let sit 5 minutes.
- Mix flour, salt, remaining sugar in a bowl.
- Add melted vegan butter and yeast mixture; knead until smooth.
- Let dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Roll dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over it.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle evenly over dough.
- Roll dough tightly and cut into 8 rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased pan; let rise 20 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until golden.
- Mix powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla for glaze.
- Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 45g
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