Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Vegan cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that combines a soft, pillowy dough with swirls of rich cinnamon sugar. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are delightful at any gathering, filling your home with an irresistible aroma as they bake. Their fluffy texture and sweet glaze make them a standout choice for both casual brunches and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and steps, you can whip these up even if you’re new to baking.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet brown sugar creates a comforting flavor that everyone loves.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or snack time; these rolls fit perfectly into any meal.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Made without animal products, these rolls are suitable for those seeking vegan options.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends and family; they’ll be the highlight of any get-together.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your vegan cinnamon rolls, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking even more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently and ensuring even mixing.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect dough consistency.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly, ensuring consistent thickness for uniform baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for your cinnamon rolls to rise and bake without crowding.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup almond milk (or any another non-dairy milk)
• 2½ teaspoons instant dry yeast (or active dry yeast)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ⅓ cup canola oil (sunflower oil, olive oil, avocado oil, or melted vegan butter)
• 3⅓ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• ¼ cup vegan butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 4 teaspoons cinnamon

For the Glaze

• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1½ tablespoons dairy-free milk (oat, almond, soy)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, warm the almond milk until it’s slightly warm but not hot.
2. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add in sugar, canola oil, flour, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Place in an oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix together the vegan butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well blended.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air.
2. Roll out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
2. Starting from one edge, roll tightly into a log.
3. Cut into 9 equal pieces and place them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover again with cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

1. While baking, whisk together powdered sugar, dairy-free milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

1. Once baked, drizzle the glaze over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

Enjoy your homemade vegan cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Vegan cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries to add a sweet and juicy contrast.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas provide a creamy texture that complements the rolls perfectly.

With Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of cinnamon.
• Herbal Tea: Choose a light herbal tea to balance the richness of the rolls without overpowering their flavor.

Topped with Nut Butters

• Almond Butter: Spread almond butter on warm rolls for an added nutty flavor.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter enhances the overall taste while adding protein.

With Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla dairy-free ice cream on top transforms your cinnamon rolls into a decadent dessert.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this pairing is simply irresistible.

How to Perfect Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Achieving the perfect vegan cinnamon rolls involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to help you make them even better:

• Use Warm Milk: Ensure your almond milk is warm (not hot) when activating yeast. This helps it rise effectively.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which contributes to a fluffy texture.
• Allow Enough Rising Time: Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size for optimal fluffiness.
• Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and moisture; make sure to drizzle generously over warm rolls.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruits inside the roll for extra flavor and texture.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Serving vegan cinnamon rolls alongside side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of cinnamon rolls.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers a nutritious boost and pairs well with sweet flavors.
3. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with granola adds crunch and nutrients, complementing your sweet treat.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy side that balances sweetness.
5. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with sliced bananas or berries makes for a hearty breakfast option.
6. Yogurt Dip: Serve a dairy-free yogurt dip on the side for an added creamy element that contrasts nicely with cinnamon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making vegan cinnamon rolls can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is vital for achieving the perfect treat.

• Using warm milk instead of room temperature: Warm milk can kill the yeast, preventing your rolls from rising. Always use room temperature almond milk for best results.
• Not letting the dough rise enough: Rushing the rising process leads to dense rolls. Allow your dough to double in size for light and fluffy results.
• Skipping the glaze: A glaze adds flavor and enhances the texture of your cinnamon rolls. Don’t omit this step; it’s essential for a delicious finish.
• Overstuffing with filling: Too much filling can cause spills while baking and make rolling difficult. Use a moderate amount to keep everything intact.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing your rolls inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover vegan cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Cover a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water, and steam the rolls for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making vegan cinnamon rolls:

What makes these Vegan Cinnamon Rolls different?

These vegan cinnamon rolls are free from dairy and eggs, yet still achieve a soft and fluffy texture that everyone will love.

Can I use other non-dairy milks?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with oat milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy option you prefer.

How do I ensure my Vegan Cinnamon Rolls rise properly?

Make sure that your yeast is fresh and active. Also, allow enough time for the dough to rise in a warm environment.

Can I customize these Vegan Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips into the filling for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Vegan cinnamon rolls are not only delightful but also versatile treats that everyone will enjoy. Their soft texture combined with sweet cinnamon swirls makes them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fillings or toppings!