As the warm scent of cinnamon envelops my kitchen, a certain nostalgia washes over me, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings and laughter-filled mornings. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns—a playful twist on a classic treat that’s completely dairy-free! Not only are these buns a delightful indulgence, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for a fun weekend baking project or an easy weekday surprise. With a soft, fluffy texture and a sweet apple filling that hugs the warmth of aromatic spices, these buns are sure to become a new favorite in your home. Curious about how to create this comforting masterpiece? Let’s get baking together and unleash the magic of homemade goodness!
Why are Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns special?
Irresistible warmth: The intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills your home, creating a cozy atmosphere everyone will adore.
Quick to make: With a total time of just under two hours, you can whip up this delightful treat any day of the week without hassle.
Perfect for gatherings: Serve these buns at brunches or casual get-togethers, and watch your friends and family gather around for seconds.
Nutritious indulgence: Satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying a wholesome recipe that's completely plant-based, allowing for guilt-free enjoyment.
Flexible filling options: Swap out the apple filling for your favorite fruit jam or even a nut butter spread to customize the flavor to your liking.
Discover more tempting plant-based options in our collection of delicious vegan breakfasts that will brighten your mornings!
Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these delicious Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns, guaranteed to fill your kitchen with love and warmth.
For the Dough
- 350 g strong white flour – This flour provides the perfect structure for fluffy buns.
- 7 g dried yeast – Activates the dough, making it rise beautifully.
- 2 tablespoon soft brown sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness and helps with browning.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- 400 g plant-based milk – Use your favorite non-dairy milk to keep it vegan and creamy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
For the Filling
- 2 tablespoon soft brown sugar – Sweetens up the filling, perfectly complementing the cinnamon.
- 2 teaspoon cinnamon – Brings that warm, comforting flavor we all love.
- 1 tin apple fruit filling – Offers a delightful fruity burst that pairs beautifully with the spices.
For Brushing
- Vegan butter – Gives your buns a lovely golden finish and a rich taste.
Get ready to celebrate the sweetness of homemade treats with these Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns, perfect for cozy mornings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns
Step 1: Warm the Milk
Start by gently warming 400 g of plant-based milk in the microwave until it’s warm to the touch but not boiling, about 30 to 40 seconds. This temperature is crucial for activating the dried yeast later. Set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the dry ingredients, creating the perfect base for your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 350 g of strong white flour, 7 g of dried yeast, 2 tablespoon of soft brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir thoroughly with a whisk to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. This blend will provide structure and flavor to your dough, setting up your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns for success.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Pour the warmed plant-based milk and 1 tablespoon of olive oil into your dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms. Then, use your hands to knead the mixture together until it becomes cohesive and smooth, about 3 to 5 minutes. The dough should be slightly sticky but elastic—this texture is key for fluffy buns.
Step 4: Let the Dough Prove
Lightly oil the interior of the same mixing bowl with a bit of olive oil. Place the kneaded dough back in, cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel, and let it prove in a warm area for about 1 hour. The dough should roughly double in size, becoming fluffy and airy, which is essential for perfect Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Tin
While your dough is proving, preheat your oven to 180 degrees C. Line a baking tin with baking paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your wonderfully golden Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns come out beautifully from the tin once baked, making clean-up a breeze and optimizing presentation.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
After one hour, gently tip the dough onto a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll it out into a rectangle, approximately ¼ inch thick. Make sure there's enough flour on the surface to prevent sticking. This will provide ample space to fill and roll up your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns with the delicious apple and cinnamon goodness.
Step 7: Fill the Dough
Spread 2 tablespoon of soft brown sugar and 2 teaspoon of cinnamon evenly over the rolled-out dough, followed by an even layer of the tin of apple fruit filling. Use a spatula to help guide the filling to the edges, ensuring every bite will be flavorful. This mixture creates a comforting sweet and spicy filling, enhancing the overall taste of your buns.
Step 8: Roll Up the Dough
Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly towards the other end. Keep the filling intact and tight, ensuring a big swirl of flavor in each Vegan Apple Cinnamon Bun. Once rolled, turn the log so the seam is at the bottom, which will help seal it during baking.
Step 9: Slice the Rolls
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into pieces about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. You should yield around eight beautiful buns. Each slice should reveal the swirls of filling, tempting you with their aroma. Place each cut roll onto the prepared baking tin, leaving enough space between them to expand.
Step 10: Second Proving
Cover the arranged rolls with clingfilm and let them prove for another 45 minutes. They should puff up nicely, becoming airy and light. This second proving allows the flavors to meld beautifully while preparing the buns for baking, guaranteeing soft and fluffy Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns.
Step 11: Brush with Vegan Butter
After proving, melt some vegan butter and brush it generously over the tops of your buns using a pastry brush. This step will give them a lovely golden finish and enhance the overall taste. The melted butter adds richness that complements the sweet apple and cinnamon filling perfectly.
Step 12: Bake the Buns
Carefully place the baking tin in the preheated oven and bake the buns for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden brown on top. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as they bake, promising a delightful treat. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning, ensuring your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns are just right.
Step 13: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly, making it easier to remove them without falling apart. Carefully transfer the buns to a wire rack or serve them straight from the tin, ready to enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns
Room Temperature: Enjoy your buns fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature, stored in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the buns for up to 5 days. Wrap them individually in foil to prevent drying out and keep their delightful texture.
Freezer: Freeze your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns for up to 2 months. Simply place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring no excess air to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place a bun in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 180 degrees C for 10 minutes, bringing back that cozy, fresh-from-the-oven feel!
Expert Tips for Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns
Timing is key: Allow enough proving time for the dough to rise; skipping this can result in dense buns instead of fluffy ones.
Flour wisely: Use enough flour on your surface while rolling out the dough to prevent sticking, making the process smoother.
Control the heat: Ensure your plant-based milk is warm, not hot, to keep the yeast active and promote proper rising in your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns.
Slice evenly: Cut the rolls with a sharp knife for clean edges, ensuring even baking and a beautiful swirl in each bun.
Space them out: When placing the sliced rolls in the baking tin, leave enough space between them to allow for expansion during the second proving.
Check for doneness: Keep a close eye on your buns as they bake; they should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch when done.
Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns with these delightful variations!
- Gluten-Free: Swap the strong white flour for a gluten-free blend to make these buns suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Different Fruits: Substitute the apple filling with pears or berries for a fruity twist that brings unique flavors.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the cinnamon filling for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Chocolate Swirl: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent chocolate-apple combination that kids will love.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top the baked buns with homemade or store-bought vegan caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
- Icing on Top: Prepare a simple vegan icing by whisking powdered sugar with a little plant-based milk, then drizzle it over the cooled buns for added sweetness.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate some lemon zest into the dough or filling for a refreshing citrus zing that enhances the flavor balance.
Dive into delightful variations and make these buns your own! And if you’re excited to explore more deliciously diverse options, check out our collection of tantalizing vegan desserts that will bring joy to your baking experience!
What to Serve with Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns
Indulging in the sweet, fluffy goodness of these delightful treats is sure to inspire a cozy, satisfying spread that leaves everyone smiling.
- Creamy Oatmeal: A warm bowl of creamy oatmeal pairs wonderfully, providing a wholesome texture that can balance the sweetness of the buns.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the warm cinnamon buns, perfect for adding a pop of color and nutrients.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of a creamy chai latte enhance the flavors of the buns, creating a comforting drink experience.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of pure maple syrup on the warm buns adds a luscious sweetness and a delightful sticky texture.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This light, nutritious pudding brings a creamy element to your brunch table, and its subtle flavors won’t overpower the buns.
- Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layered with seasonal fruits and granola, a yogurt parfait can elevate your breakfast experience with freshness and crunch.
- Herbal Tea Selection: A warm cup of herbal tea serves as a soothing complement to the sweet and spicy notes of the buns, rounding out your meal beautifully.
- Almond Milk Hot Chocolate: Rich and silky, a comforting cup of hot chocolate adds indulgence to your cozy morning, especially on chilly days.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy mornings, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first half of the instructions to form and roll the dough, then wrap it tightly in clingfilm and refrigerate it after the first proving. For the best flavor, let them prove again for 45 minutes at room temperature before baking. If you want to take it a step further, you can slice and arrange the rolls in the baking tin, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 3 days before you want to enjoy them. Just remember to brush on the melted vegan butter and bake them when you're ready for fresh, warm Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns!
Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right apples for the filling?
Absolutely! When choosing apples for your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns, look for sweet, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and balance the sweetness of the filling perfectly. Avoid overly soft apples with dark spots, which may affect the texture.
How should I store my Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns?
You can enjoy your buns fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, stored in an airtight container to maintain softness. For longer freshness, refrigerate them wrapped in foil for up to 5 days. This little step keeps them deliciously moist and ready for any craving.
Can I freeze Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your cooked buns cool completely, then place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove excess air to avoid freezer burn. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. For the best results, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes at 180 degrees C.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise during the proving phase, it might be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your plant-based milk is warm (around 40 degrees C) but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you've had it sitting for a long time, check the expiration date on the yeast package! Always ensure your proving environment is warm and free from drafts.
Are Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns safe for pets?
Good question! While the buns are safe for human consumption, they contain ingredients like sugar and cinnamon that aren't recommended for pets. Always keep them away from your furry friends, especially baked goods that can upset their stomachs. If you're ever unsure, consult your vet about what human foods can be shared with your pets safely.
What can I do if I don’t have strong white flour?
Don’t fret! If strong white flour isn’t available, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. Just note that it may result in a slightly denser dough. If you have bread flour on hand, that could work wonderfully as well, offering a nice balance of texture and fluffiness in your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns.
Delicious Vegan Apple Cinnamon Buns for Cozy Mornings
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Tin
- Pastry Brush
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 350 g strong white flour Provides the perfect structure for fluffy buns.
- 7 g dried yeast Activates the dough, helping it rise.
- 2 tablespoon soft brown sugar Adds sweetness and aids browning.
- ½ teaspoon salt Balances flavors and enhances taste.
- 400 g plant-based milk Use your favorite non-dairy milk.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds moisture and richness.
For the Filling
- 2 tablespoon soft brown sugar Sweetens the filling.
- 2 teaspoon cinnamon Provides warm, comforting flavor.
- 1 tin apple fruit filling Offers a delightful fruity burst.
For Brushing
- vegan butter Gives buns a golden finish.
Instructions
Steps
- Warm the Milk: Gently warm plant-based milk in the microwave until warm to the touch, about 30 to 40 seconds.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, yeast, brown sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Form the Dough: Pour warmed milk and olive oil into dry ingredients and mix until a rough dough forms. Knead until smooth and slightly sticky.
- Let the Dough Prove: Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, and cover. Let it prove for about 1 hour.
- Prepare the Baking Tin: Preheat oven to 180 degrees C and line a baking tin with baking paper.
- Roll Out the Dough: Tip dough onto a floured surface and roll into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Fill the Dough: Spread brown sugar and cinnamon over dough, followed by the apple fruit filling.
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting at one long side, roll the dough tightly to keep filling intact.
- Slice the Rolls: Cut the rolled dough into pieces about 1.5 to 2 inches thick.
- Second Proving: Cover rolls with clingfilm and let them prove for another 45 minutes.
- Brush with Vegan Butter: Melt vegan butter and generously brush over tops.
- Bake the Buns: Place baking tin in preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven, let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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