Description
These cozy and comforting Apple Cinnamon Rolls are fluffy, warm, and filled with tender apple bits and cinnamon flavor. Made entirely with plant-based ingredients, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime. Easy to prepare and customizable, these rolls offer a deliciously inviting taste experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup plant-based butter, softened
- 1 cup warm plant-based milk (around 110°F/43°C)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
Apple Cinnamon Filling
- 2 cups fresh apples, diced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (natural)
- 2 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Optional Frosting
- 1/2 cup plant-based cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (natural)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm plant-based milk with apple cider vinegar and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until frothy, showing the yeast is active. Add flour, sugar, and softened plant-based butter to the yeast mixture. Knead the mixture until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and place it in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours or until the dough doubles in size.
- Make the Apple Cinnamon Filling: While the dough rises, place diced fresh apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and plant-based butter into a saucepan. Cook gently until the apples are just tender. Stir in the natural gelling agent to thicken the mixture and prevent sogginess. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely.
- Shape the Rolls: Once risen, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Roll the dough tightly from the longer side into a log. Slice the log into 1.5-inch thick individual rolls.
- Second Rise and Bake: Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, spaced slightly apart for expansion. Cover and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Optional Frosting: While rolls bake, blend plant-based cream cheese with maple syrup and cinnamon to create frosting. Spread the frosting over warm rolls immediately after removing them from the oven for a creamy, sweet finish.
Notes
- Use crisp, fresh apples for the best texture and natural sweetness.
- Do not overfill with apple filling to avoid soggy bottoms.
- Knead dough until it springs back gently to ensure fluffiness.
- Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment for optimal yeast activity.
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the rolls cleanly without squashing.
- Bake until the rolls are golden and sound hollow when tapped.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: apple cinnamon rolls, vegan cinnamon rolls, plant-based dessert, cinnamon roll recipe, apple pastries