Vegan Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe You’ll Crave

Nothing beats waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked vegan gingerbread cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. These rolls combine the cozy spices of gingerbread with the classic cinnamon swirl, creating a treat you’ll want to make on repeat all season long.

this Recipe

Whether you’re a longtime vegan or simply looking to try a new holiday breakfast, this vegan gingerbread cinnamon rolls recipe is easy to follow and yields soft, fluffy rolls with a sweet, spicy glaze. Let’s dive into why these rolls should be your next baking adventure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth
• Rich gingerbread spices paired with classic cinnamon swirl
• Completely vegan, using plant-based ingredients only
• Perfect for holiday breakfasts or cozy weekend treats
• Gluten-free option easily adaptable with simple swaps

Ingredients

Gather these everyday ingredients for an unforgettable batch of vegan gingerbread cinnamon rolls that deliver on flavor and texture.

• 3/4 cup warm plant-based milk (almond or soy), about 110°F
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one 0.25-ounce packet)
• 1/2 cup organic brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce (as egg replacer)
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Glaze

• 4 ounces vegan cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons plant-based milk, as needed

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (including rising time)
• Servings: 8 rolls
• Calories: Approximately 320 per roll

How to Make Vegan Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls – Recipe You’ll Make on Repeat

1. In a small bowl, combine warm plant-based milk and yeast. Let it activate for 5–7 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, applesauce, melted vegan butter, and the activated yeast mixture.
3. Add the flour, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Roll out the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
6. Spread the softened vegan butter evenly over the dough. Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger for the filling, then sprinkle it over the buttered surface.
7. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 8 equal rolls and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until puffed.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and cool slightly.
10. For the glaze, beat vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and plant milk until smooth. Drizzle generously over warm rolls before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Make sure your plant-based milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
• Knead the dough thoroughly for a soft, elastic texture that rises well.
• Don’t rush the rising times – they’re essential for fluffy rolls.
• Use softened vegan butter for easier spreading in the filling.
• Adjust glaze thickness by adding milk gradually to get the perfect drizzle.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover vegan gingerbread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They maintain their softness well and are even better when warmed.

To reheat, microwave a roll for 20–30 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. You can also freeze the rolls before baking or after cooling; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

What can I substitute for applesauce as an egg replacer?

You can use mashed banana, flaxseed meal mixed with water, or commercial egg replacers. Applesauce keeps the rolls moist and tender.

How long do the rolls keep fresh?

When stored properly in the fridge, the rolls stay fresh for about 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them either before or after baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and baking.