Ingredients
Dough
3 tablespoons vegan butter
1 cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
2 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
Filling
4 tablespoons vegan butter (softened)
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Frosting
6 ounces vegan cream cheese or mascarpone
⅓ cup vegan butter (softened)
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the plant-based milk and vegan butter. Warm gently until the butter melts and the mixture is lukewarm (not hot). Stir in the sugar, then sprinkle in the yeast. Let it sit for 8–10 minutes until slightly foamy.
Add the flour and salt gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms. Stir until it comes together into a slightly sticky dough.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Spread the softened vegan butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly across the surface.
Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side. Slice into 12 equal rolls using a knife or dental floss.
Place the rolls into a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rest for another 20–30 minutes until slightly puffed.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.
In a bowl, beat together the vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use block-style vegan butter: It gives a richer texture compared to spreadable versions.
- Check yeast freshness: If it doesn’t foam, it may be inactive.
- Avoid overheating liquids: Hot milk can kill the yeast. Aim for warm, not hot.
- For overnight rolls: Refrigerate after shaping and let them come to room temperature before baking.
- For gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and add extra liquid if needed.
- Cutting tip: Dental floss works great for clean slices without squishing the dough.
- Prep Time: 30 min
- Cook Time: 30 min