Description

Indulge in irresistibly soft and fluffy sourdough cinnamon rolls made with a gently fermented dough for a unique tangy flavor. Swirled with warm cinnamon and natural brown sugar, and topped with a rich plant-based frosting, these rolls offer a comforting and aromatic treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

1 cup active sourdough starter
3/4 cup plant-based milk
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
2 tbsp natural brown sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for variation)
1/4 cup vegetarian butter (plant-based), softened

Filling

1/4 cup vegetarian butter (plant-based), softened
1/2 cup natural brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon (natural)
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: 1/2 cup diced apples, raisins, or dried cranberries
Optional: 1/3 cup dairy-free chocolate chips or 1 tbsp cocoa powder

Frosting

1 cup powdered sugar (natural, plant-based)
4 oz plant-based cream cheese (plant-based)
2 tbsp maple syrup (natural)
1–2 tbsp plant-based milk (to thin as needed)
1 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Combine the active sourdough starter, plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, and natural brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and softened vegetarian butter (plant-based) while stirring until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead gently for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth, then cover and let rest to ferment until slightly puffy and doubled in size.
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the rested dough into a large rectangle to create an even base for the filling, ensuring consistent thickness.
Spread the Filling: Generously coat the dough with softened vegetarian butter (plant-based). Sprinkle an even layer of ground cinnamon and natural brown sugar over the butter. Add optional nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate if desired.
Shape the Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other to form a spiral. Cut into even slices with a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, and place each slice flat on a lined baking pan, leaving space between rolls for expansion.
Let the Rolls Rise: Cover the tray and allow the rolls to rise in a warm place until nearly doubled in size and soft to the touch, about 4 to 6 hours depending on room temperature.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and aromatic.
Prepare and Add the Frosting: While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar (natural, plant-based), plant-based cream cheese, maple syrup (natural), plant-based milk, and natural gelling agent until creamy. Drizzle or spread generously over each warm roll.

Notes

Use active sourdough starter for best rise and flavor.
Allow dough to rest and rise properly for a soft, airy crumb.
Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut rolls cleanly.
Use room temperature ingredients for smooth dough formation.
Monitor bake time to avoid drying the rolls.
Optional additions include nuts, dried fruit, or dairy-free chocolate in the filling.
Can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for dietary needs.

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 4-6 hours fermentation time)
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Bakery

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 320
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: sourdough cinnamon rolls, plant-based cinnamon rolls, vegan cinnamon rolls, gluten-free cinnamon rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls, plant-based frosting