The scent of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through the air is enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat. If you’re seeking a delightful way to elevate your breakfast game, let me introduce you to my Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. These sweet rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are a warm hug on a plate, bringing comfort with each gooey bite. The best part? They’re entirely dairy-free and can be prepped overnight, making mornings feel effortless and indulgent. Imagine waking up to a fresh batch of these soft, fluffy rolls topped with a spiced maple glaze, ready to be savored with family and friends. Ready to bring a touch of homemade magic into your kitchen? Let’s get rolling!
Why are Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls special?
Warmth and Comfort: These Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls combine the cozy flavors of classic apple pie and cinnamon rolls, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Effortless Preparation: With the option for overnight prep, you can wake up to a stress-free baking experience, perfect for busy mornings.
Food Allergy Friendly: Completely vegan and dairy-free, these rolls cater to diverse dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Idea: Don’t stop at apples—try swapping in pears or nuts for a creative spin! You can even opt for a gluten-free version by using a baking mix.
Irresistible Glaze: The spiced maple glaze takes each roll to another level, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
Indulge in this recipe and pair it with a scoop of vegan ice cream or serve it warm drizzled with a little extra glaze, just like in my beloved Key Lime Pie!
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Organic All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the dough; can substitute with all-purpose flour if needed.
• Artisan Bread Flour – Enhances tenderness for a brioche-like texture; all-purpose flour can replace it but may change the final outcome.
• Rapid Rise Yeast – Activates quickly for a fluffy dough; using Active Dry Yeast will require longer rising times.
• WARM Water – Activates the yeast effectively; ensure it’s warm but not hot to keep your yeast alive.
• Organic Brown Sugar – Imparts sweetness and moisture to the dough.
For the Filling
• Apple Pie Spice Blend – Brings warm apple pie flavors; a homemade option is to mix cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ground cloves.
• Peeled & Diced Apples – Provide delightful filling flavor; a mix of Gala and Granny Smith apples is suggested for the best taste.
• Vegan Salted Butter – Adds richness to both dough and filling; regular vegan butter works too if salt is added separately.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and creaminess to the glaze.
• Pure Maple Syrup – A delicious sweetener for the glaze that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the rich flavor throughout.
• Almond Milk (or Plant-Based Milk) – Helps to blend all glaze ingredients smoothly for a silky finish.
Discover the joy of making these apple pie cinnamon rolls, perfect for cozy mornings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup warm water with 1 tablespoon organic brown sugar and 1 packet of rapid rise yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of organic all-purpose flour, 1 cup artisan bread flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in 1 cup almond milk, 1/4 cup melted vegan salted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and set in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Make Apple Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the filling by creaming together 1/4 cup softened vegan butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons apple pie spice in a bowl. Peel and dice 2 cups of apples into small pieces—using a mix of Gala and Granny Smith for balanced flavors. Stir the diced apples into the spiced sugar mixture until well combined, then set aside.
Step 4: Assemble Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, ensuring it reaches the edges. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal and slice into 1.5-inch pieces to create your Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 5: Second Rise
Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each for expansion. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise in a warm area for about 20 minutes, or until they puff up slightly. This second rise is crucial for achieving fluffy, delightful Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When ready, place the rolls in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and the aroma of cinnamon fills the air. Keep an eye on the rolls as they approach 35 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Step 7: Make Glaze
While the rolls are baking, prepare the spiced maple glaze. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons almond milk. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting with more milk if necessary for the desired consistency.
Step 8: Glaze Rolls
Once the Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls have baked, let them cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Drizzle half of the glaze over the rolls, allowing it to absorb in for extra sweetness. Then, top with the remaining glaze just before serving, ensuring a gooey, delectable finish to your delightful apple pie cinnamon rolls.
Expert Tips for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
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Water Temperature Matters: Ensure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C). If it’s too hot, it could kill the yeast, ruining your dough.
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Knead Well: Knead the dough for a good 5–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, providing the rolls with the perfect fluffy texture.
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Mind the Rising Time: Don’t rush the rising process; allow the dough to double in size for the best results. A warm spot in your kitchen helps greatly!
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Use Dental Floss for Slicing: For clean cuts, use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife. This prevents squishing your beautiful rolls.
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Check for Perfectly Baked Rolls: Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning; golden brown should be your goal for these delightful Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls.
Storage Tips for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store your apple pie cinnamon rolls covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate the rolls for up to 1 week, but ensure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before freezing to retain quality!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat thawed rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste, or microwave for 30 seconds until warm.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are ideal for meal prep, making your mornings effortlessly sweet! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. After kneading the dough, simply cover and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out and assembling the rolls. To maintain their fluffy texture, ensure they are well-covered during the rise time. You can also assemble the rolls completely, place them in a greased pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, let them rise for about 20 minutes, then pop them into the oven for freshly baked, deliciously gooey rolls!
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to mix and match these delightful twists to make the Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls your own!
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Gluten-Free: Replace both flours with a gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You’ll still enjoy that airy, fluffy texture!
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Fruit Swap: Switch out the apples for juicy pears or add chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch. Each option offers a new flavor layer that keeps things exciting!
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Extra Spice: For an added kick, sprinkle in some ginger or allspice to the filling. This spicy twist enhances the traditional apple pie flavor profile.
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Air-Fried Delights: Prefer a quicker method? Preheat your air fryer to 360°F and bake for about 8 minutes. Air-frying gives them a lovely crispy finish!
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Maple Walnut Glaze: Swap half of the almond milk in the glaze for more maple syrup or crushed walnuts. This adds richness and depth to each sweet bite.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted vegan chocolate over the finished rolls for a decadent touch. Chocolate and apple create a dreamy dessert combo you won’t forget!
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Cinnamon Sugar Crust: Before the second rise, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the rolled dough for an irresistible crust. Every bite will be bursting with gooey sweetness!
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Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: Mix in some dairy-free cream cheese in your filling for a creamy layer that pairs beautifully with the spiced apples, creating a rich texture.
Ready to elevate your breakfast experience? These delightful variations are sure to please everyone at the table! Don’t forget to check out other delicious ideas like helping your family enjoy Apple Crisp Cinnamon or indulge in a cozy Foster Cinnamon Rolls!
What to Serve with Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls?
Imagine your kitchen filled with the sweet, spiced aroma of freshly baked rolls, now let’s elevate this experience with perfect pairings!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the rolls. Think of juicy berries and zesty citrus!
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Coconut Yogurt: Creamy and subtly sweet, a dollop of coconut yogurt adds a delightful creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
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Chai Latte: Warm spices in a chai latte complement the flavors of the cinnamon rolls beautifully. Sip on this cozy beverage while enjoying your treats.
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Maple Pecan Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and pairs perfectly with a drizzle of extra maple syrup, enhancing the rolls’ glaze without overpowering them.
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Nutty Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of almond or cashew ice cream creates a creamy contrast to the warm rolls. Enjoy the melty goodness as it blends with the sweet flavors!
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Sweetened Almond Milk: Served chilled or warm, this dairy-free milk option acts as a great pairing, enhancing the rolls by balancing their sweet warmth.
Serve your Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls with any of these delightful options for a cozy, comforting experience that your family will cherish!
Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for the filling?
I recommend using a combination of Gala and Granny Smith apples for a balanced flavor—Gala offers sweetness, while Granny Smith adds a nice tartness that elevates the overall filling. If you’re in the mood for a twist, try using other fruits like pears or even adding chopped nuts for extra texture!
How should I store my Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls?
Store your apple pie cinnamon rolls covered at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them wrapped tightly for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing!
Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls before or after baking?
You can freeze the baked cinnamon rolls after cooling completely. For an unbaked option, assemble the rolls, then freeze them before the second rise. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature and let them rise before baking. This method retains freshness and flavors beautifully!
What if my dough is too sticky?
Absolutely! If your dough is sticky, it’s often just a matter of adding a small amount of flour gradually while kneading. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture; don’t be shy to sprinkle flour onto the surface as needed. If you’ve added too much liquid, you may have to adjust with a little more flour to achieve the right consistency!
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Very! To make gluten-free Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, simply replace both the all-purpose and bread flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well for a safe and delicious treat!
How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?
Keep an eye on your rolls towards the end of the baking time; they should turn golden brown and feel slightly firm to the touch. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready to come out of the oven!
Delicious Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup warm water with 1 tablespoon organic brown sugar and 1 packet of rapid rise yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of organic all-purpose flour, 1 cup artisan bread flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in 1 cup almond milk, 1/4 cup melted vegan salted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5–10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and set in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour.
- While the dough rises, prepare the filling by creaming together 1/4 cup softened vegan butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons apple pie spice in a bowl.
- Peel and dice 2 cups of apples into small pieces. Stir the diced apples into the spiced sugar mixture until well combined.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough.
- Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal and slice into 1.5-inch pieces.
- Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each for expansion. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise in a warm area for about 20 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When ready, place the rolls in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the spiced maple glaze by whisking together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons almond milk.
- Once the Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls have baked, let them cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Drizzle half of the glaze over the rolls.