Description
Soft, fluffy, and bursting with warm cinnamon sweetness, these Gluten-Free Vegan Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence. Made with a tender dough, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a creamy vegan cream cheese icing, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Those seeking a gluten-free and vegan alternative to classic cinnamon rolls.
- Home bakers looking for a fun, satisfying project.
- Anyone craving a warm, gooey, cinnamon-infused treat.
- Individuals with dietary restrictions who don’t want to compromise on flavor.
Why It’s Great
- Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, vegan, and utterly delicious!
- Soft and Fluffy: The dough rises beautifully for a pillowy texture.
- Customizable: Adjust the filling and icing to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, weekend mornings, or special gatherings.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- String or thread (for slicing rolls)
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Roll Dough:
- 2 eggs (separated)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 ½ cups warm coconut milk (100–110°F)
- ¼ cup vegan butter
- 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup tapioca starch
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 2 tsp xanthan gum
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
For the Cinnamon Roll Filling:
- ½ cup vegan butter
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- ¼ cup vegan butter
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (plain)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tbsp coconut milk
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: Warm the coconut milk to 100–110°F. Stir in the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes until frothy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, tapioca starch, salt, xanthan gum, and baking powder.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Beat egg whites in a mixer on medium speed for 3 minutes. Add one egg yolk, mix for 1 minute, then add vegan butter and beat for another minute.
- Combine and Knead: On low speed, add the yeast mixture and dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough: Sprinkle powdered sugar on a large piece of plastic wrap. Roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness between two sheets of plastic wrap.
Making the Filling
- Spread vegan butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- In a bowl, combine cinnamon, sugar, and brown sugar. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Rolling and Cutting
- Gently roll the dough from one end, using the plastic wrap to assist. Seal the edges lightly as you go.
- Use a piece of string or thread to slice the roll into 1-inch pieces.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with coconut oil.
- Place the rolls in the dish, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake for 30–32 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the rolls to cool for 15–20 minutes.
Making the Icing
- Beat vegan butter, cream cheese, vanilla, and sifted powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the icing over the warm rolls before serving.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze un-iced rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before icing and serving.
FAQ
1. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the rolls up to the baking step, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
2. What can I substitute for tapioca starch?
Arrowroot powder or cornstarch can work as substitutes for tapioca starch.
3. Do I need xanthan gum?
Yes, xanthan gum helps mimic the elasticity of gluten and ensures a soft texture.
4. Can I make these rolls nut-free?
Absolutely! Ensure all ingredients, including the vegan butter and cream cheese, are nut-free.
Conclusion
These gluten-free vegan cinnamon rolls are a labor of love but worth every moment. Perfectly spiced, delightfully gooey, and topped with creamy icing, they’re a treat everyone will adore. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or just exploring new recipes, these rolls are a must-try!
