Classic Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Get ready to dive into the ultimate comfort treat with these Classic Vegan Cinnamon Rolls! Warm, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness, these rolls bring all the cozy flavors you love without any dairy or eggs. This recipe includes all the essential tips to achieve that perfect pillowy texture and melt-in-your-mouth filling, so every bite is irresistibly soft and gooey. With a bit of patience and a few pantry staples, you can create these bakery-worthy rolls right in your own kitchen!

And if you’re looking to make these rolls your own, we’ve got creative twists to elevate the flavor—try adding a hint of orange zest to the filling, a handful of chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of nuts for extra crunch. We’ll also share tips on making the dough, letting it rise just right, and achieving the ideal golden-brown finish. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a treat, these vegan cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to impress.

Ultimate Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These cinnamon rolls are incredibly soft, fluffy, and filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar mixture. Topped with a creamy vegan icing, they make for an irresistible treat perfect for breakfast or dessert!

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup unsweetened plant milk (e.g., almond, soy)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted (plus more for greasing)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour (start with 3 cups and add more as needed)

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 8 ounces vegan cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons plant milk (adjust for consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small saucepan, gently heat the plant milk until warm (about 110°F or 43°C). Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted vegan butter and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the bowl. Gradually mix in 3 cups of flour until a soft dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5–7 minutes, adding more flour as necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Spread the softened vegan butter evenly over the surface of the dough once it has risen.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface.
2. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 12×18 inches.
3. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered surface.
4. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
5. Slice into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

1. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Cover with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Prepare the Icing

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened vegan cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and plant milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

1. Allow rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with icing.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Flour Measurement: For best results, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense rolls.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or raisins to your filling for added texture and flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these rolls up to slicing them and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

Variations

• Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Replace half of the brown sugar in the filling with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice seasoning.
• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle dairy-free chocolate chips along with the cinnamon-sugar filling for a decadent twist.

These Ultimate Vegan Cinnamon Rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful treats!