Vegan Pink Cinnamon Rolls Guide

These vegan pink cinnamon rolls are my go-to recipe when I want to create something stunning and delicious for brunch or special occasions. The vibrant glaze owes its rosy hue to beet juice, while a soft spiced dough swirls around a gooey cinnamon center. Every bite is a cozy mix of nostalgia and playful color.

I first made these rolls as a fun Valentine’s treat for friends, and their smiles said it all. Baking them together has now become a tradition I look forward to every year.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: gives the rolls their fluffy structure choose fresh flour for the softest results
• Sugar: sweetens the dough and helps it brown evenly
• Almond milk: keeps everything vegan while adding moisture use unsweetened for best flavor
• Coconut oil: melted for a soft texture and gentle coconut undertone
• Active dry yeast: makes the rolls rise and creates classic cinnamon roll airiness check the expiration date for strong activity
• Vanilla extract: deepens the flavor and adds homemade warmth
• Cinnamon: is the star spice so use fresh ground for the most aroma
• Salt: balances all the sweetness and enhances flavors
• Powdered sugar: for the glaze use fine sifted sugar for the smoothest texture
• Beet juice: gives a natural pink color opt for fresh beet juice if possible for vibrant color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix Yeast and Milk:

In a medium bowl combine warm almond milk and active dry yeast Let this mixture sit for about five minutes until bubbly The warmth helps activate the yeast which is essential for rising

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:

Add flour sugar melted coconut oil vanilla extract cinnamon and salt to the bowl Mix until a shaggy dough forms Use a wooden spoon or your hands to make sure flour is fully absorbed

Knead the Dough:

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface Knead it for a full five minutes pressing and folding until the dough is smooth and elastic This step builds the gluten which gives the rolls their classic pull apart texture

First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel Let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour or until it doubles in size This rise creates those fluffy layers

Shape and Fill:

Gently roll the dough into a rectangle about a half inch thick Brush with melted coconut oil and sprinkle plenty of cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across This layer provides that dreamy cinnamon swirl in every bite

Roll and Cut:

Starting from the long edge tightly roll the dough into a log Use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife to slice into even rolls This keeps the layers neat

Second Rise:

Arrange the rolls in a baking dish leaving a bit of space for expanding Cover and let them rise for another thirty minutes They will puff up and fill the dish

Bake:

Bake in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius for twenty to twenty five minutes The rolls are done when lightly golden and cooked through

Make the Frosting:

In a small bowl whisk together powdered sugar and beet juice until smooth and vibrantly pink The consistency should be pourable but not watery Adjust with extra sugar or beet juice if needed

Frost and Serve:

Let the rolls cool slightly before spreading the glaze over the tops The glaze melts just a bit and sets into a gorgeous pink finish

Pin

I absolutely love how the beet juice gives these rolls a playful color without any artificial dye My younger sister and I once made a double batch to share with neighbors on a rainy Saturday and it became such an uplifting treat for all of us

Storage Tips

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days They stay soft and flavorful To keep them longer place in the fridge for up to five days Just reheat in the microwave for ten seconds for the warm fresh experience

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap almond milk for oat or soy milk if you have other plant based options in your kitchen If you prefer a nut free version coconut milk works well instead of almond Use gluten free flour blends if you need a gluten free treat but the texture may be slightly more dense

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Serving Suggestions

These rolls are beautiful with a fresh pot of coffee or a cup of spiced chai Serve alongside fresh fruit for a breakfast spread They also make a memorable dessert at birthday parties or a weekend brunch table

Cultural and Historical Context

Cinnamon rolls have been enjoyed for centuries particularly in Sweden where they are a key part of fika or coffee break traditions This vegan version keeps all the coziness but fits beautifully with plant based gatherings and modern food trends

Recipe FAQs

→ How does beet juice affect the color?

Beet juice gives these swirl buns a natural rosy hue without impacting the flavor, creating a vibrant pink glaze and dough.

→ What’s the best way to ensure fluffy rolls?

Allow the dough ample time to rise in two stages and knead until elastic. This helps develop structure and a soft crumb.

→ Can I substitute almond milk with another plant milk?

Yes, oat milk or soy milk work well in place of almond milk, maintaining moisture and flavor in the dough.

→ How do I make these gluten-free?

Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for similar texture and results.

→ What’s the secret to smooth frosting?

Whisk powdered sugar with beet juice until glossy and free of lumps. Spread on slightly cooled buns for best results.