Are you craving the decadent sweetness of cinnamon rolls but want a healthier, plant-based option? Look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved Erewhon-style vegan cinnamon roll, delivering all the gooey goodness without the guilt. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weekend baking project or a special brunch treat. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delicious and surprisingly healthy homemade recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm plant-based milk (unsweetened almond or soy recommended)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or a blend with whole wheat for added nutrients), plus more for dusting
- ¼ cup vegan butter, melted and cooled
For the Filling:
- ½ cup vegan butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm plant-based milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
2. Make the Dough: Add apple cider vinegar, salt, and melted vegan butter to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky. This step develops the gluten, resulting in a tender and fluffy roll.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine softened vegan butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until well combined.
6. Assemble the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (approximately 12x18 inches). Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
7. Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
8. Second Rise: Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, leaving some space between each roll. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Make the Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
11. Frost and Enjoy: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle generously with the icing. Let cool completely before serving and enjoy your delicious, homemade vegan cinnamon rolls!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon filling.
- Make it healthier: Use whole wheat flour or oat flour for a more nutritious dough.
- Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the filling before rolling.
- Adjust sweetness: Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or icing to your preference.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 4-6g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy these delicious and relatively healthy vegan cinnamon rolls as a special treat! They're a perfect example of how easy it is to create satisfying and delicious healthy meals at home. These quick dinner ideas are perfect for any occasion. These easy recipes will become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire, among the best recipes you'll ever try.