Imagine the aroma of warm cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as you pull a tray of vegan cinnamon rolls from the oven, soft, fluffy, and loaded with gooey cinnamon-sugar goodness. These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls; they’re a decadent, dairy-free treat that delivers everything you love about a classic cinnamon roll, made completely vegan. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an indulgent dessert, these rolls bring cozy vibes with every bite.

The magic lies in the texture: pillowy soft dough that’s lightly sweetened, gently spiced, and enriched with plant-based milk and vegan butter, creating that melt-in-your-mouth feel. Then comes the filling, a classic swirl of cinnamon and sugar, caramelized to perfection as it bakes. When they emerge from the oven golden and aromatic, each roll is crowned with a creamy vegan glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness, taking them to the next level.

One of the best things about these vegan cinnamon rolls is their versatility. You can make them fresh in just about an hour if you’re craving something quick and comforting, or you can prep them the night before and leave them in the fridge, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight. With this overnight method, you can simply pop them into the oven in the morning and have a warm, gooey breakfast ready in no time.

For those who like a twist, these rolls are perfect for customizing. Add a handful of chopped nuts or a hint of cardamom to the filling for a unique flavor profile. Or try a caramel or maple glaze for a hint of autumnal richness. However you enjoy them, these vegan cinnamon rolls are sure to become a beloved staple, delivering that sweet, comforting flavor everyone loves, without any dairy or eggs.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups unsweetened plant milk (e.g., soy, almond)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 packets (4 1/2 tsp) quick-rise yeast
• 1/2 cup vegan butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

For the Filling

• 6 tablespoons softened vegan butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 8 ounces vegan cream cheese
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the warmed plant milk, granulated sugar, and quick-rise yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the melted vegan butter and salt to the mixture.
3. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for about 2 minutes.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for an additional 3-4 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 20 minutes or until nearly doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. While the dough is rising, mix together the softened vegan butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
2. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges.
3. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
4. Cut off the ends of the log and slice it into 12 equal rolls using dental floss or a sharp knife.

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

1. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish or two 9-inch pie pans.
2. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare the Icing

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the vegan cream cheese and softened vegan butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once baked, allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling with icing.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips

• For an overnight option, prepare the rolls up to slicing them and place them in the fridge overnight covered with plastic wrap or a towel. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
• You can substitute different plant milks or sweeteners based on your preference.

These classic vegan cinnamon rolls are sure to impress family and friends with their rich flavor and delightful texture! Enjoy your baking!