World’s Easiest Cinnamon Rolls With 7 Basic Ingredients
Create ultra-gooey vegan cinnamon rolls with minimal steps for sweet weekend mornings.
The World’s Easiest Cinnamon Rolls: Simple, Vegan, Irresistible
Indulge in the comforting aroma and taste of homemade cinnamon rolls, without the intimidation or fuss. This recipe distills the classic treat to its essentials: seven basic ingredients, minimal steps, and pure deliciousness. Vegan, approachable, and ultra-gooey, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunches, or cozy desserts. All you need is a little time, a few pantry staples, and the willingness to enjoy something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fewer ingredients – just seven basics you likely have on hand.
- No fancy techniques – suitable for all skill levels.
- Plant-based – entirely vegan, no eggs or dairy required.
- Quick preparation – standard proofing, easy rolling, bake, and enjoy.
- Versatile and customizable – easily adapts to dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Ingredients
These cinnamon rolls rely on straightforward, mostly pantry-friendly ingredients. Each element is essential for the soft, gooey texture and irresistible flavor.
| Ingredient | Description & Notes |
|---|---|
| Vegan Butter | Provides richness and moisture. Brands like Earth Balance are recommended. |
| Instant Yeast | Rapid-rise yeast for quick, reliable rise (1 packet yields ~2 1/4 tsp). |
| Unsweetened Almond Milk | Dairy-free base for dough. Other plant milks may work. |
| Organic Cane Sugar | Lends sweetness and helps yeast activate. |
| Salt | Balances sweetness and enhances dough flavor. |
| Unbleached All-Purpose Flour | The backbone for structure and texture. |
| Ground Cinnamon | Classic spice for the signature filling. |
Dough
- 3 Tbsp vegan butter
- 1 packet instant/rapid-rise yeast
- 1 cup unsweetened plain almond milk
- 1 Tbsp organic cane sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
Filling
- 3 Tbsp vegan butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup organic cane sugar
- 1/2–1 Tbsp ground cinnamon (to taste)
Topping
- 2 Tbsp vegan butter (melted)
Icing (Optional)
- Simple powdered sugar glaze (see below)
- Vegan cream cheese frosting
How to Make the Easiest Vegan Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare & Proof the Dough
Start by warming your almond milk (not hot!) and melting the vegan butter together. Mix with the cane sugar in a large bowl, then sprinkle in the yeast and allow it to activate. A bubbly, foamy surface indicates readiness. Add the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead gently in your bowl or on a lightly floured surface for several minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rest and rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (usually 1 hour).
- If your kitchen is cool, set near a pre-heated oven or inside a slightly warm oven (turned off).
Step 2: Roll Out & Fill
Roll the dough into a rectangle (~1/4 inch thick). Brush generously with melted vegan butter, then sprinkle with cane sugar and cinnamon. Be sure the filling is evenly distributed for consistent sweetness and flavor. If your cinnamon preference leans strong, add up to a full tablespoon.
- Roll the dough tightly from the short edge for thick spirals.
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss (for tidier cuts) to slice into rolls.
Step 3: Second Rise & Bake
Arrange your rolls snugly in a lightly greased pan. Cover and let rises again until puffy and touching (30-45 minutes). Uncover and brush tops with more melted vegan butter before placing in a preheated oven.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and risen.
Step 4: Frost & Serve
Let rolls cool slightly (about 10 minutes) before icing. For optional glaze, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1–2 Tbsp plant milk until smooth. If preferred, spread vegan cream cheese frosting for a tangy finish.
What others are reading
- Serve warm for gooeyness, or at room temperature after frosting sets.
Tips, Variations & Troubleshooting
- Yeast Tips: Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate yeast. If your yeast doesn’t foam, start over with fresh yeast.
- Flour Adjustments: Add flour gradually—the exact quantity depends on humidity and flour brand.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap in a gluten-free flour blend (see related Minimalist Baker recipes). The rise may be a little lower, but the rolls can still be soft and delicious.
- No-Bake Option: Try No-Bake Cinnamon Roll Bites using oat and almond flour, for a quick (20-minutes) treat.
- Banana Twist: For a fun flavor variation, use banana purée in the dough and fill with banana slices.
- Frosting Ideas: Classic powdered sugar glaze, vegan cream cheese, or even dairy-free vanilla icing all work well.
- Storing: Keep covered at room temperature 2–3 days; freeze for longer storage (up to a month).
Cinnamon Rolls Around the World
The cinnamon roll has fascinating global roots. The classic version is believed to have originated in Sweden in the 1920s, where they’re a staple for “fika”—the beloved coffee break. Sweden even celebrates a National Cinnamon Bun Day. The pastry gained worldwide popularity by the 1950s, finding place on bakery shelves and home tables everywhere.
Comparison: Classic vs. Minimalist Vegan Cinnamon Rolls
| Classic Cinnamon Rolls | World’s Easiest Vegan Cinnamon Rolls |
|---|---|
| Contains eggs/dairy | 100% plant-based, vegan butter & plant milk |
| Multiple mixing bowls, complex steps | One bowl, simple mixing & kneading |
| Long proofing, rich dough | Rapid-rise yeast, easy dough formation |
| Standard cream cheese frosting | Powdered sugar glaze or vegan cream cheese |
| Can take 2–3 hours or more | Done in about 90 minutes (start to finish) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these cinnamon rolls gluten-free?
A: Yes. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The rolls will be slightly less voluminous but still tasty. See the Vegan Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls recipe for guidance.
Q: What’s the best way to cut cinnamon rolls?
A: Dental floss is surprisingly effective! Slide beneath the rolled dough, cross ends, and pull to slice clean spirals. Otherwise, use a serrated knife and gentle sawing motions.
Q: Can I prep these cinnamon rolls the night before?
A: Yes. After arranging in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow rolls to come to room temperature and rise before baking.
Q: What’s the best plant-based milk for cinnamon rolls?
A: Unsweetened almond milk offers a neutral flavor and lightness, but soy or oat milk also work well.
Q: How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
A: Store in a covered container at room temperature for up to three days. To freeze, wrap well and freeze up to one month. Reheat gently in microwave or oven.
Ingredient Substitutions & Add-Ons
- Sugar: Use organic cane sugar or brown sugar for deeper flavor. Coconut sugar is a natural alternative.
- Butter: Vegan margarine or coconut oil substitutes for vegan butter.
- Add-ins: Chopped walnuts, raisins, or a pinch of cardamom for Swedish flair.
- Frosting: For a tangy finish, try dairy-free cream cheese frosting; for more sweetness, go with classic glaze or even a maple drizzle.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm, straight from the oven, for best gooey texture.
- Pair with a mug of hot coffee or tea for an authentic “fika” experience.
- Top with fresh berries, nuts, or edible flowers for a brunch centerpiece.
- Pack for a weekend treat, picnic, or sweet addition to lunchboxes.
More Cinnamon Roll Inspiration
- Vegan Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls: For allergy-friendly mornings, check out Minimalist Baker’s gluten-free adaptation.
- No-Bake Cinnamon Roll Bites: Fast, naturally sweetened, and perfect for on-the-go snacks.
- Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls: Combine classic banana bread flavors with cinnamon roll comfort, using banana slices and walnuts.
Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe
For easy icing, simply whisk together the following:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 Tbsp unsweetened almond milk
Mix until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over slightly cooled rolls and let set for a glossy, sweet finish.
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Whisk
- Baking pan (round, square, or rectangular)
- Sharp knife or dental floss
Summary of Steps
- Mix wet ingredients and yeast in bowl.
- Stir in flour and salt, knead until smooth.
- Proof dough in a warm spot (until doubled).
- Roll dough out, butter, sugar, cinnamon.
- Roll up tightly, slice into spirals.
- Arrange in pan, proof again until puffy.
- Bake 25–30 minutes at 350°F.
- Let cool, glaze and serve!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per roll)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 3g
(Values approximate and will vary with ingredient choices and quantities.)
Share & Connect
- If you bake these, tag your photos #minimalistbaker on Instagram for a chance to be featured.
- Leave a comment or rating to share your tips and feedback.
Cinnamon rolls are meant to be shared, savored, and celebrated. With this world’s easiest recipe, any home baker can create warm, gooey spirals of happiness—minus the stress and with all the joy.
References
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