Name: Vegan Caramelized Onion Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 8 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup warmed almond milk (or other vegan milk); 2 Tablespoons sugar; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet); 1/4 cup oil (olive or avocado oil recommended); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 3 cups all purpose flour (375 grams); 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 large onion, sliced; 4 cups spinach (loosely packed); 2 Tablespoons vegan butter; Salt & pepper to taste; 2/3 cup tomato sauce; 8-10 leaves fresh basil (torn); 1-2 Tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)

If you’re craving a savory, soft, and utterly irresistible snack or appetizer, you have to try this Vegan Caramelized Onion Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe. These rolls are packed with sweet caramelized onions and vibrant spinach, all wrapped in a tender, homemade dough that bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe combines the best flavors of classic pizza with a totally plant-based twist. It’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of baking ingredients and tools on a white marbled surface. On the left, a yellow bowl has flour inside, with some flour spilled slightly outside the bowl on a light cloth. Above it is a large empty silver metal bowl. To the right, there is a metal whisk, and next to it three small white bowls filled with different spices or powders in light brown tones. Below these bowls, a small white pitcher holds olive oil, and next to it is a clear glass measuring cup with milk. The overall color is soft and neutral with a clean, bright look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple, everyday pantry staples that come together beautifully to create the most amazing flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a special role in crafting the perfect pizza rolls, from the soft dough to the luscious filling.

Warmed almond milk (1 cup + 1 cup): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender and dairy-free.
Sugar (2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory filling.
Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magic behind the fluffy, airy dough texture.
Olive or avocado oil (1/4 cup): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb in the dough.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings classic Italian herb flavor that pairs perfectly with the filling.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle, sweet herbaceous note.
All-purpose flour (3 cups / 375 grams): The essential foundation of the dough, providing structure.
Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Balances and highlights all the other flavors.
Large onion (1, sliced): Caramelized to bring a natural sweetness and softness into every bite.
Fresh spinach (4 cups, loosely packed): Adds vibrant color and a mild, fresh taste that complements the onions.
Vegan butter (2 tablespoons): Helps caramelize the onions to golden glory with rich flavor.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning for the onion-spinach mix.
Tomato sauce (2/3 cup): Acts like the pizza base sauce inside the rolls – tangy and comforting.
Fresh basil leaves (8-10, torn): Sprinkle on top of filling for an aromatic boost and lovely pops of green.
Nutritional yeast (1-2 tablespoons, optional): Adds a cheesy, nutty finish on top before baking, perfect for umami lovers.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Vegan Caramelized Onion Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Pizza Dough Ahead

Starting with the dough is essential for these rolls, and the extra time you give it to rise in the fridge will pay off in flavor and texture. Warm your almond milk, whisk in sugar and yeast, and watch for the bubbles that tell you your dough is ready to rise. Incorporate oil, herbs, flour, and salt, then knead until elastic but not sticky. Cover and refrigerate the dough for 24 to 48 hours for a slow, flavorful rise that makes all the difference.

Step 2: Reactivate the Dough

About an hour before baking, take the dough out of the fridge, punch it down gently, and let it rise again at room temperature. This step wakes up the yeast so the dough becomes soft and easy to work with—perfect for rolling and shaping your pizza rolls.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions and Prepare the Spinach

While the dough is doing the second rise, melt vegan butter in a skillet over low heat and cook the sliced onions slowly. This patient 20 to 30-minute cooking brings out their natural sugars and creates a deep, mellow sweetness. Then add the fresh spinach, letting it wilt gently into the onions. Season with salt and pepper, and set this vibrant filling aside while you prepare the dough.

Step 4: Shape and Fill the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a half-inch thick rectangle. Spread tomato sauce evenly but leave a border free of filling so it seals well. Layer the caramelized onion and spinach mixture next, and sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves over everything for a fresh, herby lift. Then, roll the dough tightly into a log, tuck the edges in as you roll, seal the seam with a pinch, and place it seam side down.

Step 5: Slice, Add Nutritional Yeast, and Bake

Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices and arrange them in a greased baking dish. The optional nutritional yeast sprinkled on top adds a wonderful cheesy flair as they bake. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 34 to 38 minutes until golden brown and soft inside. These rolls come out perfectly risen, flaky on the outside, and bursting with the sweet-savory filling.

How to Serve Vegan Caramelized Onion Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe

The image shows a rectangular pizza on a white marbled surface, with a thick, uneven crust that is being folded inward by a woman's hands on the left side. The pizza has a bright red tomato sauce base spread over the dough. On top of the sauce, there are scattered green spinach leaves and small pieces of brown mushrooms. The pizza dough is light beige with a slightly puffy texture, and the photo captures a close-up view from above. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These rolls are delicious on their own, but feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dusting of extra nutritional yeast right before serving. A dash of red pepper flakes can bring a touch of heat, or drizzle some olive oil to keep them wonderfully moist.

Side Dishes

Pair your pizza rolls with a crisp green salad, a bowl of tangy marinara for dipping, or even a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. Anything light and fresh cuts through the richness beautifully and rounds out the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these rolls on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic-infused olive oil, vegan ranch, or spicy harissa. They also make perfect finger food at parties, and stacking them in a spiral makes for a stunning centerpiece. Get creative with presentation to impress your guests or just treat yourself.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your Vegan Caramelized Onion Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe cools completely, store leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Keep them sealed well to maintain their moisture and softness.

Freezing

You can freeze baked pizza rolls by wrapping them individually or placing them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months for a quick ready-to-bake snack. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To bring your rolls back to life, warm them gently in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, cover with foil and heat for 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough chewy instead of soft and fluffy.

FAQs

Can I use regular cow’s milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute any plant-based or dairy milk here, but almond milk is great for its lightness and subtle flavor that won’t overpower the dough. Just make sure it’s warmed so the yeast activates properly.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the dough overnight?

Refrigerating the dough slowly develops flavor and improves texture, but if you’re short on time, you can let it rise at room temperature for a shorter period. Just expect a less complex flavor in the final rolls.

Can I add other vegetables or vegan cheese to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your pizza rolls with mushrooms, bell peppers, artichokes, or your favorite vegan cheese to make the recipe your own.

How do I know when the dough is properly kneaded?

The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch but not sticky. It should stretch without tearing easily, which means it’s ready to rise.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast, try sprinkling some vegan Parmesan or toasted breadcrumbs for a similar flavor and texture. It’s optional but adds a lovely finishing touch.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Caramelized Onion Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe is one of those comforting, show-stopping dishes that feels like a big warm hug in every bite. From the tender, herb-infused dough to the sweet richness of caramelized onions and fresh spinach, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t hesitate—get your ingredients together and create these delicious rolls that are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your plant-based recipe collection!

Vegan Caramelized Onion Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need