There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when you’re crafting something beautiful and delicious, especially when it’s as vibrant as these Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls. The moment you dissolve the dairy-free butter and inhale its buttery warmth mixed with sweet raspberry and strawberry aromas, you’ll feel the weight of the day melt away.
I was inspired to create these delightful rolls on a rainy afternoon when I was looking for a way to infuse a little color and joy into my home. With only a handful of ingredients and a splash of creativity, I transformed simple dough into a show-stopping treat.
These rolls aren’t just visually stunning; they are soft, fluffy, and bursting with strawberry goodness—a perfect indulgence for everyone, whether you’re vegan, health-conscious, or simply bored of takeout. Whip up a batch for brunch with friends or enjoy them on a cozy Sunday morning. Trust me, once you’ve experienced the sweet, fruity explosion of flavors wrapped in these pink delights, you’ll find your new favorite way to treat yourself.
Why are Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls a must-try?
Irresistible Aroma: The buttery scent mixed with fresh strawberries will fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness.
Colorful Delight: Their vibrant pink hue makes them as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to eat.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, anyone can master this recipe.
Vegan-Friendly: Made without dairy, these rolls cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Sharing: They’re an eye-catching centerpiece for brunch or a sweet surprise for family gatherings.
Indulging in these delightful rolls is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating happy moments! For more delectable ideas, check out my guide to easy vegan baking.
Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• 115 g dairy-free butter – Melted for a rich, buttery flavor.
• 400 ml dairy-free milk – Use any plant-based milk for creaminess.
• 50 g caster sugar – Provides sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
• 1 pack active dry yeast (approx 7 g) – Ensures the rolls rise beautifully.
• 480 g plain flour – The base for a soft and fluffy texture; reserve some for dusting.
• Pink food gel – Adds a fun, vibrant color to your dough.
For the Raspberry Filling
• 100 g fresh / frozen raspberries – Pops of tartness to balance the sweetness.
• 50 g caster sugar – Sweetens the filling perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon water – Helps to combine the filling ingredients smoothly.
• 2 tablespoons cornflour – Thicken the filling, making it spreadable.
• 130 g strawberry / raspberry jam – Adds sweetness and a fruity punch.
• 50 g chopped fresh strawberries – Enhances the jam with fresh, juicy bursts.
For the Frosting
• 60 g dairy-free butter – Gives richness and creaminess to the frosting.
• 40 g dairy-free cream cheese – Adds a tangy flavor; feels indulgent.
• 150 g icing sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a creamy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Dairy-free milk (if needed) – Adjusts consistency for the perfect drizzle.
For Decoration
• 2 tablespoons freeze dried strawberries / freeze dried raspberries – Give a chic finish and extra flavor.
• Fresh strawberries – Adds a burst of freshness on top; an eye-catching touch!
Embrace the delightful flavors of these Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls and watch your loved ones light up with joy!
How to Make Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls
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Melt the dairy-free butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until completely liquefied. Let it cool slightly before combining it with other ingredients.
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Combine melted butter with room temperature milk, sugar, and active dry yeast in a mixing bowl. Whisk together until smooth, then cover with a tea towel and let it rest in a warm place for 10 minutes to activate the yeast.
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Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl. Carefully pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour, adding a drop of pink food gel for that signature color.
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Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic, which should take about 5 minutes. Shape it into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it prove for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
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Prepare the raspberry filling by combining raspberries, sugar, water, cornflour, and strawberry/raspberry jam in a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring until thickened, about 5-8 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.
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Roll the risen dough into approximately a 16” x 24” rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cooled jam mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
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Optionally, sprinkle the finely chopped fresh strawberries over the jam mixture to add extra flavor. Then roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the ends to seal. Cut the log into 9-10 equal rolls.
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Place the rolls in a greased 11 x 9 inch dish, cover, and let them rise again for 40 minutes to 1 hour, until they are puffy.
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Preheat the oven to 180° C (350°F). Brush the edges of the rolls with dairy-free milk to give them a nice golden color, then bake for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and fluffy.
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Cool the rolls in the dish completely before frosting them; this helps prevent the frosting from melting away.
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Frost by whisking together dairy-free butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add in the icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
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Drizzle or spread the frosting over the warm rolls, then decorate with freeze-dried berries and fresh chopped strawberries, if desired.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls
- Perfectly Activated Yeast: Allow the yeast to bubble and foam for about 10 minutes. If it doesn’t, your dough won’t rise properly.
- Dough Consistency: Make sure your dough is soft and slightly tacky. If it’s too sticky, add flour gradually; if it’s dry, knead in a bit of dairy-free milk.
- Temperature Matters: Let your dough rise in a warm place, like near a sunny window or a turned-off oven. A cooler spot may slow down the rising process.
- Filling Balance: Don’t overfill your rolls! Keep the filling within the 1-inch border to prevent a messy overflow during baking.
- Frosting Fun: Let the rolls cool completely before adding frosting to achieve that perfect creamy layer without it melting away.
With these tips, your Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls will shine as the star of any breakfast table!
Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on these delightful rolls and explore a world of flavors!
- Nutty Twist: Add 50g of ground almonds or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch.
- Coconut Version: Substitute the dairy-free butter with coconut oil for a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with the fruity flavors.
- Chocolate Lover: Mix in 100g of dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spicy undertone.
- Berry Medley: Swap out the raspberries for mixed berries (blueberries, blackberries) to create a vibrant and juicy filling.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls accessible for those following a gluten-free diet. Just ensure your yeast is also gluten-free.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting for a zesty, refreshing twist that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Savory Style: Create a savory version by replacing jam with a mix of roasted garlic and herbs as the filling for a unique brunch option.
Each variation offers a chance to get creative in the kitchen while enjoying the comforting charm of these Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls!
What to Serve with Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls?
Start your day off on a vibrant note by marrying these delightful rolls with complementary dishes that make your breakfast table sing.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness with a refreshing crunch.
- Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, it provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the warm rolls.
- Herbal Tea or Fresh Brewed Coffee: A fragrant beverage perfectly complements the fruity flavors while enhancing the cozy brunch experience.
- Almond Butter Toast: Spread it on toasted gluten-free bread for an extra protein boost, grounding the sweetness of the rolls.
- Chia Seed Pudding: Its creamy texture and nutty flavor create a satisfying contrast with the fluffy, sweet rolls.
- Savory Avocado Toast: The creaminess and slight bitterness of avocado bring in a savory note, providing a delightful balance to the meal.
- Vegan Sausage Patties: A protein-packed side that brings rich flavor, completing a hearty breakfast sure to delight everyone at the table.
- Dairy-free Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, this sweet drink pairs beautifully with the rolls, making every bite an indulgent experience.
Create a spread that invites togetherness and comfort with these vibrant pairings.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls
Fridge: Store the rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen rolls, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180° C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until warm and delicious.
Frosting Tip: Consider frosting only the portions you plan to eat right away, as the frosting can alter in texture when stored.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance, making your busy mornings a breeze. To do this, simply follow the recipe up to the point of cutting the dough into rolls. Instead of letting them rise a second time, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before allowing them to rise again for 40 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked rolls, just as delicious but with much less effort!
Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my yeast is active?
Absolutely! To check if your active dry yeast is working, mix it with warm dairy-free milk (about 110°F/43°C) and sugar, then let it sit covered for around 10 minutes. You should see bubbles and froth forming on the surface—this indicates that your yeast is active and ready to use. If nothing happens, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast.
What is the best way to store Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls?
Very good question! Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh. If you want to keep them longer, placing them in the refrigerator is also an option. Just remember, refrigerating can sometimes dry them out, so be sure to wrap them well!
Can I freeze the Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them overnight in the fridge, and then reheat in a preheated oven at 180° C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until warm.
Why are my rolls not rising properly?
Ah, this can happen sometimes! If your rolls aren’t rising as expected, ensure that your yeast was fresh and properly activated. The dough should be placed in a warm area to rise; a cooler environment can slow this down. If the dough feels too stiff, adding a bit of dairy-free milk can help hydrate it and promote a better rise.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, if you need a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, and they might not be as fluffy. With a good flour choice and perhaps a little extra liquid, you’ll have delicious cinnamon rolls in no time!
Can pets have any part of this recipe?
It’s important to be careful with a few of the ingredients. While the rolls are vegan, some ingredients like dairy-free butter can include formulations that aren’t suitable for pets. Always check for any allergens and avoid giving them the rolls or frosting, as it’s best kept for human enjoyment!
Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls That Will Brighten Your Morning
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the dairy-free butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until completely liquefied. Let it cool slightly before combining it with other ingredients.
- Combine melted butter with room temperature milk, sugar, and active dry yeast in a mixing bowl. Whisk together until smooth, then cover with a tea towel and let it rest in a warm place for 10 minutes to activate the yeast.
- Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl. Carefully pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour, adding a drop of pink food gel for that signature color.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic, which should take about 5 minutes. Shape it into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it prove for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the raspberry filling by combining raspberries, sugar, water, cornflour, and strawberry/raspberry jam in a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring until thickened, about 5-8 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Roll the risen dough into approximately a 16” x 24” rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cooled jam mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Optionally, sprinkle the finely chopped fresh strawberries over the jam mixture to add extra flavor. Then roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the ends to seal. Cut the log into 9-10 equal rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased 11 x 9 inch dish, cover, and let them rise again for 40 minutes to 1 hour, until they are puffy.
- Preheat the oven to 180° C (350°F). Brush the edges of the rolls with dairy-free milk to give them a nice golden color, then bake for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and fluffy.
- Cool the rolls in the dish completely before frosting them; this helps prevent the frosting from melting away.
- Frost by whisking together dairy-free butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add in the icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
- Drizzle or spread the frosting over the warm rolls, then decorate with freeze-dried berries and fresh chopped strawberries, if desired.