Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Indulge in the sweetness of homemade vegan cinnamon rolls. This recipe is a delightful fusion of soft, fluffy dough swirled with the rich, sweet aroma of cinnamon. It's a plant-based treat that will lift your spirits and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are available in a typical pantry. However, you might need to look for vegan butter alternatives and almond milk in the supermarket if they are not commonly used in your home. Both these ingredients are crucial to provide the necessary texture and flavor to the vegan cinnamon rolls.

Essential Ingredients for the Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Vegan butter: A dairy-free alternative to regular butter. It provides a similar creamy texture and enhances the flavor of the recipe.

Almond milk: This plant-based milk is a great substitute for dairy milk. It gives the dough a soft and pliable texture.

Organic sugar: Adds a natural sweetness to the rolls.

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

Flour: Forms the base of the cinnamon roll dough.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Brown sugar: Used in the filling for its moistness and deep, caramel-like flavor.

Ground cinnamon: Gives the rolls their classic spicy-sweet flavor.

Powdered sugar: Used in the icing for a smooth, sweet topping.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to the icing.

One reader, Annnora Camp says:

star icon star icon star icon star icon star icon

These vegan cinnamon rolls are a game-changer! The dough is perfectly fluffy, and the filling is just the right amount of sweet and spicy. The icing on top is the cherry on the cake. I can't believe they're vegan! I'll be making these again and again.

Annnora Camp

Key Techniques for Mastering Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

How to prepare the dough: Mixing almond milk, melted butter, and sugar, then adding yeast and flour, and allowing the dough to rise.

How to roll out the dough: Rolling the dough into a large rectangle, spreading vegan butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then rolling it up into a log and cutting it into evenly sized pieces.

How to make the icing: Whisking together powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla until smooth to create the icing for the cinnamon rolls.

How To Make Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Unwrapped the beautiful and amazing swirls of this easy-to-make gooey and soft vegan cinnamon rolls smothered in sweet cream cheese frosting.

Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking: 25 minutes
Set and Rest Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

  • 2tbspvegan butter,to coat the foil pan

For Dough:

  • 2cupsalmond milk,at room temperature
  • ½cupvegan butter,melted
  • ¼cuporganic sugar
  • 1pckactive dry yeast
  • cupsflour,divided
  • 1tspsalt

For Filling:

  • ¾cupvegan butter
  • ¾cupbrown sugar
  • 2tbspground cinnamon

For Icing:

  • 1cuppowdered sugar
  • 2tbspalmond milk
  • ½tspvanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Generously rub two disposable foil pie pans with vegan butter.

  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond milk, melted butter, and sugar. The mixture should be just warm, registering between 100 to 110 degrees F. If it is hotter, allow it to cool slightly.

  3. Sprinkle the yeast evenly over the warm mixture and let set for 1 minute.

  4. Add 5 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the milk mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until just combined. Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and set it in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour.

  5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

  6. After 1 hour, the dough should have nearly doubled in size.

  7. Remove the towel and add an additional ½ cup of flour and salt. Stir well, then turn out onto a well-floured surface.

  8. Knead the dough lightly, adding additional flour as necessary, until the dough just loses its stickiness and does not stick to the surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about ½-inch thick. Fix corners to make sure they are sharp and even.

  9. Spread the softened vegan butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.

  10. Roll up the dough, forming a log, and pinch the seam closed. Place seam-side down. Trim off any unevenness on either end.

  11. Cut the log in half, then divide each half into 7 evenly sized pieces, about 1½-inches thick each.

  12. Place 7 cinnamon rolls in each cake pan, one in the center, six around the sides. Cover with plastic wrap and place in a warm place to rise for about 30 minutes.

  13. To prepare the frosting, whisk together powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla in a medium-size mixing bowl until smooth.

  14. Remove plastic wrap. Bake the cinnamon rolls in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.

  15. While still warm, drizzle evenly with frosting. Enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 796.23kcal
  • Fat: 39.10g
  • Saturated Fat: 35.47g
  • Trans Fat: 0.10g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 2.07g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.08g
  • Carbohydrates: 102.84g
  • Fiber: 3.97g
  • Sugar: 34.41g
  • Protein: 9.71g
  • Sodium: 344.76mg
  • Calcium: 170.37mg
  • Potassium: 170.99mg
  • Iron: 1.58mg
  • Vitamin A: 0.29µg
  • Vitamin C: 0.08mg

Expert Tip for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Your Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

When rolling out your dough, ensure you maintain an even pressure to achieve a consistent thickness throughout. This will help your cinnamon rolls bake evenly, preventing any parts from being undercooked or overcooked. Also, when spreading the vegan butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon filling, try to get it as close to the edges as possible. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Lastly, when cutting your log into individual rolls, use a sharp, serrated knife and a sawing motion rather than pressing down. This will help keep the rolls round and prevent them from being squashed.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Prep ahead: Make the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of baking.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough, saving time and effort.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe for faster and more even mixing.

Bake in batches: If you have multiple pans, bake the cinnamon rolls in batches to save time and ensure even baking.

Freeze for later: Make a double batch and freeze half of the unbaked rolls for a quick and easy breakfast in the future.

Pre-cut parchment: Cut parchment paper into squares and place them at the bottom of the pans for easy removal and cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

  • vegan butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to vegan butter in the dough and filling of the cinnamon rolls.

  • almond milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk has a creamy texture and mild flavor that works well as a substitute for almond milk in the dough.

  • vegan butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the filling to replace vegan butter, providing a rich and luscious texture.

  • organic sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener in place of organic sugar, adding a caramel-like flavor to the dough.

  • active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used as a substitute for active dry yeast, and it does not require proofing, making the process quicker.

  • flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, adding a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the dough.

  • vegan butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the icing instead of vegan butter, providing a delicious tropical flavor to the glaze.

How to Beautifully Present Your Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

  1. Elevate the plating: When presenting the vegan cinnamon rolls, ensure that the plating is elegant and refined. Use a beautiful serving platter or individual plates to showcase the rolls.

  2. Garnish with fresh berries: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by garnishing with a selection of fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful burst of flavor.

  3. Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving, delicately dust the cinnamon rolls with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar. This will create a visually appealing contrast and add a touch of sweetness to the presentation.

  4. Drizzle with artistic finesse: When applying the icing, do so with precision and finesse. Create elegant drizzles over the cinnamon rolls, ensuring that each roll is adorned with a beautiful, artistic touch of icing.

  5. Accompany with a dollop of vegan whipped cream: Serve the vegan cinnamon rolls with a dollop of homemade vegan whipped cream on the side. This adds a luxurious element to the presentation and provides a delightful complement to the warm, fragrant rolls.

  6. Use a decorative plating technique: Consider using a decorative plating technique, such as arranging the cinnamon rolls in a circular pattern or creating an intricate design with the icing. This attention to detail will impress the judges and elevate the overall presentation.

  7. Incorporate edible flowers: For a touch of sophistication, consider incorporating edible flowers into the presentation. Choose delicate, colorful blooms that complement the flavors of the cinnamon rolls, adding an element of artistry to the dish.

  8. Present on a bed of cinnamon-infused caramel sauce: Elevate the dessert by presenting the cinnamon rolls on a bed of luscious, cinnamon-infused caramel sauce. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a luxurious and visually stunning element to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making the Perfect Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

  • Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the dough for the cinnamon rolls.

  • Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used for stirring and mixing the dough and filling for the cinnamon rolls.

  • Disposable foil pie pans: These pans are used for baking the cinnamon rolls and can be easily disposed of after use, making cleanup a breeze.

  • Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to cover the dough and the pans while the cinnamon rolls are rising.

  • Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to roll out the dough into a large rectangle before adding the filling and rolling it up to form the cinnamon rolls.

  • Whisk: A whisk is used for mixing the ingredients for the icing until smooth.

  • Oven: The oven is used for baking the cinnamon rolls until they are golden brown and delicious.

  • Pastry brush: A pastry brush is used to evenly spread the softened vegan butter over the dough before adding the filling.

How To Store and Freeze Vegan Cinnamon Rolls for Later

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for vegan cinnamon rolls:

  • Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticky.
  • To store: place the cooled cinnamon rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • To freeze: wrap each cinnamon roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
  • To reheat: place the frozen cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for 30-60 seconds, or until warm.
  • If you plan to freeze the cinnamon rolls, it's best to wait to add the icing until after they have been thawed and reheated. This will ensure that the icing has the best texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Cinnamon Rolls

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). place the cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. the foil will prevent the rolls from drying out or getting too crispy on the outside.

  • If you prefer a softer, gooier cinnamon roll, you can reheat them in the microwave. place one or two rolls on a microwave-safe plate and heat them for 15-20 seconds. if they're not warm enough, heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

  • For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, you can reheat your cinnamon rolls in an air fryer. set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls in the basket, making sure they're not touching each other. heat them for 3-4 minutes, or until they're warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

  • If you want to recreate the freshly-baked experience, you can reheat your cinnamon rolls in a skillet. melt a small amount of vegan butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. place the rolls in the skillet and cover them with a lid. heat them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they're warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

  • For a more indulgent treat, you can slice your cinnamon rolls in half horizontally and toast them in a toaster or toaster oven. this will give you a crispy, caramelized exterior and a soft, warm interior. you can even spread a little extra vegan butter or icing on the inside for added flavor.

Surprising Fact About Cinnamon Rolls You Might Not Know

The vegan cinnamon rolls recipe is a delicious and cruelty-free alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls. These sweet treats are perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike. They are made with almond milk, vegan butter, and organic sugar, and are topped with a delectable icing made with powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract. These cinnamon rolls are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch spread. Enjoy them warm and fresh out of the oven for a truly indulgent treat.

Is Making Vegan Cinnamon Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

This vegan cinnamon rolls recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as almond milk, vegan butter, and flour, are reasonably priced and can be used for various other recipes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an affordable treat. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10, considering the delightful flavors, ease of preparation, and economic value.

Are Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Healthy or Unhealthy?

While vegan cinnamon rolls may seem like a healthier alternative to traditional ones, this recipe still contains a significant amount of sugar and fat. The dough itself is made with almond milk, vegan butter, and sugar, while the filling contains even more vegan butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. The icing, made with powdered sugar and almond milk, adds an additional layer of sweetness. Although the recipe uses plant-based ingredients, the high sugar and fat content makes it more of an indulgent treat than a healthy breakfast or snack.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

  • Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and filling, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or date paste
  • Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour for added fiber and nutrients
  • Decrease the amount of vegan butter in the filling, or substitute it with mashed bananas or applesauce for a lower-fat option
  • Experiment with adding healthy ingredients to the dough, such as grated carrots or zucchini, for extra moisture and nutrients
  • Top the cinnamon rolls with a lighter glaze made from cashews, almond milk, and a touch of maple syrup, or simply dust them with cinnamon and powdered sugar

Editor's Opinion: Why This Vegan Cinnamon Roll Recipe Stands Out

As a culinary expert, I find this vegan cinnamon rolls recipe to be a delightful and indulgent treat. The use of almond milk and vegan butter ensures a rich and flavorful dough, while the combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a luscious filling. The icing adds a perfect touch of sweetness. The detailed instructions make it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, this recipe promises a delectable and satisfying vegan alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls.

Enhance Your Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the sweet and gooey vegan cinnamon rolls.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable skewers, a healthy and vibrant side dish to complement the indulgent cinnamon rolls.
Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing mixed berry salad with a zesty citrus dressing, a light and fruity accompaniment to balance out the rich and decadent cinnamon rolls.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Cinnamon Rolls

Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy recipe that combines colorful bell peppers with a flavorful filling of quinoa, black beans, and spices. Perfect for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Mango Salsa Chicken: This recipe features juicy mango salsa served over tender, grilled chicken. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes for a refreshing and satisfying dish.
Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a creamy and comforting butternut squash soup. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in and is packed with rich, autumn flavors.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well with Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Appetizers:
Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, breadcrumbs, and vegan cheese. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.
Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve on toasted baguette slices for a burst of Italian flavors.
Main Courses:
Vegan Lasagna: Layered with savory marinara, creamy cashew ricotta, and a variety of roasted vegetables, this vegan lasagna is a hearty and satisfying main course that will please even the most dedicated meat-eaters. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: These stuffed bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, then topped with a zesty tomato sauce and baked to perfection. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a standout, and it's a great way to showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients.

Why trust this Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe:

This vegan cinnamon rolls recipe is a delightful treat for anyone looking for a delicious and guilt-free indulgence. The use of vegan butter and almond milk ensures a rich and creamy texture, while the combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm and comforting flavor profile. The step-by-step instructions guarantee a foolproof baking experience, and the homemade icing adds a touch of sweetness to every bite. With carefully selected organic ingredients and precise measurements, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying outcome, making it a trustworthy choice for anyone seeking a delectable vegan dessert.

Want to share your experience making these delightful vegan cinnamon rolls or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's talk about this delicious treat!
FAQ:
How long do I need to let the dough rise?
You should let the dough rise for about 1 hour in a warm place until it has nearly doubled in size.
Can I use a different type of non-dairy milk?
Yes, you can use other non-dairy milk such as soy milk or oat milk as a substitute for almond milk.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cinnamon rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them overnight. Simply cover the pans with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cinnamon rolls. After placing them in the pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw and rise in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Can I omit the icing?
Absolutely! If you prefer your cinnamon rolls without icing, you can omit it or substitute with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and a little bit of non-dairy milk.

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