These Vegan Matcha Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, incorporating the unique flavor of matcha. Below is a detailed recipe to create these delicious treats.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup warmed almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder
• 2¼ teaspoons active dried yeast (1 standard packet)
• ½ cup melted vegan butter
• ½ cup organic cane sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (add 2-4 tablespoons more if dough is too sticky)
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Black Sesame Filling:

• ½ cup black sesame seeds
• ½ cup organic sugar
• ¼ cup cold vegan butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)

For the Matcha Icing:

• 2 tablespoons almond milk (or other milk alternative)
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup organic powdered sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the warmed almond milk and matcha powder until smooth.
• Add the active dried yeast and stir. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until bubbles form, indicating that the yeast is active.
• Incorporate the melted vegan butter, sugar, and lemon juice into the mixture.
• Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes using a dough hook or by hand on a floured surface until it becomes stretchy and elastic.
• Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Make the Filling:

• In a food processor, combine black sesame seeds and sugar, processing until finely ground.
• Add cold vegan butter and vanilla, blending until smooth.

Assemble the Rolls:

• Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
• Spread the black sesame filling evenly over the dough.
• Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal.
• Cut the log into approximately 12 equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp knife.

Bake:

• Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Prepare the Icing:

• In a bowl, mix together powdered sugar, almond milk, matcha powder, and lemon juice until smooth.

Serve:

• Drizzle the matcha icing over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

These vegan matcha cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day! Enjoy their unique flavor profile that combines traditional cinnamon roll sweetness with earthy matcha notes.