Name: Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup almond milk (or any other non-dairy milk), lukewarm; 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; ¼ cup vegan butter, softened at room temperature; ½ cup brown sugar; 4 teaspoons cinnamon; ¾ cup powdered sugar; 1½ tablespoons dairy-free milk (oat, almond, soy); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sweet, warm aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, and this Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves that classic flavor without any animal products. Soft, fluffy dough swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, topped with a luscious dairy-free glaze, these rolls deliver pure comfort and joy in every bite. Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with baking ingredients neatly arranged. On the right side, there is a large white bowl filled with white flour. Above and slightly left, there is a small glass bowl with light beige powder. Around this bowl are three small copper measuring cups with wooden handles, each filled with different ingredients: the largest one holds white sugar, the middle one contains white salt, and the smallest one has a light pinkish powder. Below, there is a white dish holding two white blocks of cream cheese or butter. Next to it, on the left, a wooden spoon holds white granulated sugar. Above this spoon, there is a small round dish with a golden-yellow liquid, likely honey or syrup. To the right of the spoon, two white small bowls hold a tan powder and a burnt orange powder, likely spices. The whole setup is clean and bright, showing all ingredients clearly and evenly spaced, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to your perfect batch of vegan cinnamon rolls. Each component plays a vital role — from the creamy almond milk that keeps the dough moist to the fragrant cinnamon that gives it that unforgettable warmth. These simple staples come together to create a mouthwatering treat that’s both soft and full of flavor.

Almond milk (1 cup): Provides a creamy, dairy-free base that keeps the dough tender and light.
Instant dry yeast (2½ teaspoons): The magic agent that makes your dough rise and become wonderfully fluffy.
Sugar (¼ cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the dough to balance flavors.
Canola oil (⅓ cup): Keeps the dough moist while lending a subtle richness; feel free to use sunflower or avocado oil as alternatives.
All-purpose flour (3⅓ cups): The fundamental building block that forms the soft, elastic dough.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall taste, preventing the dough from being bland.
Vegan butter (¼ cup for filling, softened): Creates a creamy spreadable layer, essential for that gooey center.
Brown sugar (½ cup): Brings a deep caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
Cinnamon (4 teaspoons): The star spice that infuses the rolls with unmatched warmth and aroma.
Powdered sugar (¾ cup): For a smooth, sweet glaze that finishes the rolls perfectly.
Dairy-free milk (1½ tablespoons): Used to thin out the glaze while keeping it creamy and vegan.
Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle hint of vanilla that boosts the sweetness and aroma of the glaze.

TIP

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

How to Make Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by mixing 1 cup of lukewarm almond milk, 2½ teaspoons instant dry yeast, ¼ cup sugar, and ⅓ cup canola oil in a large bowl. Stir everything together and let it sit for about 1 minute so the yeast starts waking up and getting ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add 3⅓ cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt to your liquid mixture. Use a wooden spoon to blend everything until a ball of dough starts to form. This dough is the foundation of your cinnamon rolls — elastic, soft, and ready for kneading.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough vigorously for around 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step helps develop the gluten, giving your rolls their signature fluffy texture.

Step 4: First Proofing

Shape your dough into a round ball and oil a large bowl. Place the dough inside and brush it lightly with oil to prevent drying. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, making sure to leave enough room for the dough to rise. Set it somewhere warm — the top of your slightly warmed oven is perfect — and let it proof for about 1½ hours until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While your dough is rising, mix together ¼ cup softened vegan butter, ½ cup brown sugar, and 4 teaspoons cinnamon in a small bowl until you get a thick, spreadable paste. This sweet, cinnamony filling is the heart of the rolls and what makes each bite so memorable.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once your dough has doubled, place it back on the floured surface and fold it over itself five times, pulling the edges inward each time to build structure. Then use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a 12 x 16 inch (30 x 40 cm) rectangle.

Step 7: Spread the Filling and Roll Up

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border of about ¼ inch around the edges. Starting from the short side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Stretch this log gently with your hands until measuring about 11 inches (28 cm).

Step 8: Cut the Rolls

To get neat, even rolls, wrap dental floss around the dough log and pull tight like tying a knot, then slice to create 9 rolls about an inch thick each. The floss cuts cleaner than a knife and helps keep your rolls looking perfect.

Step 9: Second Proofing and Bake

Place each cinnamon roll in a baking pan that you’ve brushed with oil or vegan butter. Let the rolls proof again in a warm spot for 40 minutes, allowing them to puff up and become even fluffier. Then preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 10: Bake and Glaze

Brush the tops with a little dairy-free milk for a beautiful golden finish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. While they cool for 15 minutes, whisk together ¾ cup powdered sugar, 1½ tablespoons dairy-free milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. Pour this luscious icing over the warm rolls and get ready to indulge.

How to Serve Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your vegan cinnamon rolls even further, sprinkle some crushed pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and nuttiness. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a few fresh berries can also bring a pop of color and freshness to your presentation.

Side Dishes

These cinnamon rolls are fantastic on their own but also pair beautifully with a hot cup of strong coffee, herbal tea, or a refreshing glass of oat milk. For a more filling breakfast, serve them alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or your favorite vegan yogurt.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy brunch setting, arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden platter lined with a linen napkin. Or serve them stacked with the glaze dripping down and garnished with edible flowers for a stunning finish that’s sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any cinnamon rolls left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready to brighten your morning or afternoon snack.

Freezing

To enjoy these vegan cinnamon rolls later, you can freeze both unbaked and baked rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Unbaked rolls can be frozen before the second rise, while baked rolls freeze best after cooling completely.

Reheating

When you’re ready to indulge, thaw frozen rolls overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a couple of hours. Warm them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to bring back that freshly baked softness and re-glaze if desired for an irresistible treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for the dough?

While all-purpose flour works best to give the classic soft texture, you can try using a blend of whole wheat or spelt flour, but expect the rolls to be a bit denser. You might need to adjust the liquid amounts slightly.

Is it necessary to proof the dough twice?

Yes, giving the dough two rises is crucial for achieving those soft, fluffy layers. The first rise allows the yeast to activate, and the second plumps up the shaped rolls for that perfect light texture.

Can I substitute the almond milk with another plant-based milk?

Absolutely! Soy, oat, rice, or even coconut milk will work well. Just make sure your milk is unsweetened and at a lukewarm temperature for proper yeast activation.

How do I make sure the cinnamon rolls don’t get dry?

Be sure not to over-bake your rolls and keep them covered with foil if baking times vary. Brushing the tops with dairy-free milk before baking helps retain moisture, and the glaze adds an extra layer of softness.

Is there a way to make these cinnamon rolls gluten-free?

Gluten-free baking is trickier for cinnamon rolls because gluten develops the dough’s elasticity. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, though the texture will be different from traditional rolls.

Final Thoughts

Making this Vegan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe from scratch is such a rewarding experience — the smell, the taste, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones are unbeatable. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a weekend treat, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to become a cherished favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into baking the coziest, most delicious vegan cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tasted. You absolutely won’t regret it!