These homemade vegan cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with gooey cinnamon sugar goodness. Topped with a rich vegan cream cheese icing, they make a delightful treat for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups unsweetened plant milk (e.g., soy, almond, or oat)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 packets (4 ½ tsp) quick-rise yeast
• ½ cup vegan butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

For the Filling:

• 6 tablespoons softened vegan butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 8 ounces vegan cream cheese (e.g., Trader Joe’s or Kite Hill)
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, warm the plant milk to about 110°F (43°C). Add the sugar and yeast, stirring gently. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in the melted vegan butter and salt.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 20 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

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

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle (about 12″ x 18″).
3. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
4. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut off the ends and slice into approximately 12 rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
5. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish or two pie pans.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes while you preheat your oven.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

1. While the rolls are baking, beat together vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 7: Serve

1. Once baked, let cool slightly before drizzling with cream cheese icing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Flavor Enhancement

• Add Vanilla: Incorporate vanilla extract into both the dough and icing for added depth of flavor.
• Nutmeg or Cardamom: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon filling for an aromatic twist.
• Fruit Add-ins: Consider adding raisins or chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

Pasta Alternatives

You can use different types of flour such as:

• Whole Wheat Flour: For a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed.

Making Marinara Sauce from Scratch

To prepare marinara sauce:

1. Sauté diced onions in olive oil until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; simmer for at least 20 minutes.

Vegan Cheese Alternatives

If you prefer not to use cream cheese:

• Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast and lemon juice for a creamy topping.
• Store-bought Vegan Cheese: Brands like Daiya or Follow Your Heart offer good options that melt well.

Adding Protein to Your Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

To boost protein content:

• Add Protein Powder: Mix some plant-based protein powder into your dough.
• Incorporate Nut Butter: Swirl almond or peanut butter into the filling for added richness and protein.

These vegan cinnamon rolls are not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste preferences! Enjoy this comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing!