Indulge in the Sweet Delight of Vegan Cinnamon Rolls. There's something undeniably irresistible about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, and now you can experience that heavenly scent while still staying true to your vegan lifestyle. These Vegan Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising your principles. Made with simple, plant-based ingredients, these fluffy and aromatic rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delectable dessert.
Dairy-free cinnamon rolls
When I began this blog, my cinnamon roll recipe was the first one I ever shared! That's why I decided to share a vegan version of this classic dessert. As it is a vegan version, that means that it is also parve (kosher non-dairy) and can fit more occasions and people who might have allergies.
I used applesauce instead of eggs for this recipe. Apples and cinnamon work very well together and plus, the combination tastes delicious. It's a perfect match! I have a recipe for homemade applesauce however, if you are in a hurry, store bought is also fine.
To replace butter, I used refined coconut oil which works great when you need a non-dairy butter replacement and to avoid the coconut flavor. If you do not mind the coconut flavor then you can use cold press coconut oil, which is healthier.
How to make cinnamon roll icing
The frosting on top is just a simple powdered sugar and boiling water frosting. Simple yet divine powdered sugar and boiling water frosting, which is also dairy-free to keep the recipe vegan, awaits to crown these golden-brown wonders. Don't overlook the significance of this velvety glaze, as it truly elevates both the taste and appearance of your cinnamon rolls, making them irresistible in every way.
Tips for Making Perfect Vegan Cinnamon Rolls:
Measure Ingredients Accurately
Baking is a science, so be sure to measure your ingredients precisely. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients like flour and sugar, and a kitchen scale for more accurate measurements.
Check Yeast Freshness
Ensure your dry yeast is fresh and active. If your yeast doesn't froth or bubble when mixed with lukewarm water and sugar, it may be expired, and your dough won't rise properly.
Knead the Dough Well
When mixing the dough, knead it thoroughly to activate the gluten and achieve the right texture. It should be slightly sticky but elastic and smooth.
Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Place
Yeast thrives in warm environments, so find a warm spot in your kitchen to let the dough rise. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to keep the moisture in.
Roll the Dough Evenly
When rolling out the dough, aim for an evenly shaped rectangle. This will ensure your cinnamon rolls have consistent thickness and bake evenly.
Use High-Quality Cinnamon
The flavor of your cinnamon rolls depends on the quality of your ground cinnamon. Use fresh, high-quality cinnamon for the best taste.
Use Melted Coconut Oil
Coconut oil adds richness and enhances the flavor of the filling. Make sure it's melted and spread it evenly over the dough.
Cutting the Rolls
For neat and even rolls, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough into strips. You can also use dental floss by sliding it under the dough, crossing it at the top, and pulling to make clean cuts.
Allow Space for Rising
Place the cut rolls on the baking pan with some space between them to expand during the second rise and baking process.
Don't Overbake
Keep an eye on the rolls while baking, as they can go from perfectly golden to overly brown quickly. Once they turn golden, take them out of the oven to ensure a soft and tender texture.
Make the Perfect Frosting Consistency
Adjust the amount of boiling water added to the powdered sugar to achieve your desired frosting thickness. Add it gradually to avoid making the frosting too runny.
FAQS
Yes, you can experiment with different flours, but keep in mind that they may yield different results in terms of texture and rise. Whole wheat flour can make the rolls denser, while gluten-free flour may require additional binders like xanthan gum. Adjust the liquid content accordingly, as different flours absorb liquid differently.
Absolutely! You can use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the quantity based on your preference.
Yes, you can replace applesauce with other fruit purees like mashed banana, pumpkin puree, or even sweet potato puree. These alternatives add moisture and act as egg substitutes.
To prepare in advance, you can make the dough, shape the rolls, and place them in the baking pan. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, let the rolls come to room temperature and rise for about an hour. Then, bake as instructed.
Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked cinnamon rolls. To freeze unbaked rolls, shape them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. To bake, let them thaw and rise for a few hours before baking as usual. For freezing baked rolls, allow them to cool completely, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
You can add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the frosting to enhance the flavor. Additionally, some grated lemon or orange zest can add a delightful citrus note.
Certainly! If you enjoy extra texture and flavor, you can sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans or add some raisins or dried fruit to the filling before rolling up the dough.
Freshly baked cinnamon rolls are best consumed within a day or two. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave to enjoy them warm.
The basic recipe doesn't contain nuts, but if you decide to add nuts to the filling, be mindful of anyone with nut allergies. Consider offering nut-free options or informing potential consumers about the ingredients.
Other bread and pastry recipes to try:
Bake these vegan cinnamon rolls today!
The recipe is very easy and the outcome is super yummy! But come on, this dessert is one everyone is crazy for so let's get started! Now, it's time to indulge in the pure joy of savoring these vegan cinnamon rolls. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, savoring each bite with a cup of coffee, or treat yourself to one as a midnight snack, these rolls will leave you with a contented smile on your face and a satisfied heart. So go ahead, have a roll, and relish in the blissful combination of cinnamon-spiced heaven!
Vegan Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- 4 cups (500 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup apple sauce
- ⅔ cup (160 ml) lukewarm water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
For the filling:
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- 4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoon boiling water (amount depends on the thickness that you want for the frosting)
Instructions
- Place all the dough ingredients (add the salt last so it won't interact with the yeast otherwise the yeast won't work and the dough won't rise) in a mixer bowl and mix with a kneading hook for a few minutes. It is important to clean the sides of the bowl every few minutes to ensure that all the ingredients have been combined. If the dough is slightly sticky, that is fine too.
- Grease the bowl and make sure that all the dough is greased too. Cover with plastic and let the dough rest in a warm place for about an hour or until the dough doubles in volume.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F degrees with fan and place baking paper on a pan.
- After the dough has risen, flour the work surface and transfer the dough to it.
- Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangular leaf, 3 to 4 mm thick.
- Spread the melted coconut oil evenly on the dough and then, spread the sugar and the cinnamon.
- With a knife or pizza roll, cut lengths 2.5 cm wide and roll into snails. Place the snails on the pan in large intervals.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the rolls are golden.
- Make the frosting: In a bowl, place powdered sugar and boiling water and mix well to avoid lumps.
- Drizzle the rolls with the frosting.
- Have a roll and enjoy!
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