Warm, gooey, and perfectly spiced, vegan cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. With a soft, fluffy dough and a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, these rolls are a treat everyone will love—whether they follow a plant-based diet or not. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make from scratch. Let’s roll up our sleeves and create a batch of these delectable vegan treats.
Servings and Macros
- Yield: 12 rolls (serving size: 1 roll)
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fats: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 16g
Health Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Plant-Based Milk: Adds moisture and a touch of creaminess while providing calcium and vitamin D.
- Coconut Oil: A plant-based fat that contributes to the rolls’ rich texture.
- Cinnamon: Packed with antioxidants and known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that adds depth of flavor without refined sugar.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3/4 cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or oat)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp plant-based milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- Warm the plant-based milk to about 110°F (43°C); it should feel warm but not hot to the touch.
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and melted coconut oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened coconut oil, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pairing Recommendations
Coffee: Pair with a latte made from oat or almond milk for a creamy, complementary flavor.
Tea: Enjoy with a spiced chai or a classic black tea to enhance the cinnamon notes.
Non-Alcoholic Options:
- Warm apple cider for a cozy pairing.
- A glass of vanilla almond milk adds a creamy touch.
Cocktails:
- Espresso Martini: The coffee notes pair beautifully with the cinnamon and glaze.
- Hot Toddy: A warm bourbon-based cocktail with a hint of lemon and cinnamon.
Vegan cinnamon rolls prove that plant-based baking can be just as indulgent and satisfying as traditional recipes. With their soft texture, rich filling, and sweet glaze, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking!