The moment the chill of fall settles in, I find myself craving something cozy and indulgent. That’s when I whipped up these Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls, a creation that captures the essence of autumn bundled up in soft, fluffy sweetness. Picture this: warm, spiced dough filled with the rich aromas of chai and cinnamon, and when you bite in, the luscious chai latte glaze oozes over your taste buds like a warm hug. Not only are these rolls vegan, but they also come with options for making them gluten-free or ready to bake overnight – perfect for those mornings when time is of the essence!
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply want to create comfort in your kitchen, these cinnamon rolls are bound to be a hit. With easy-to-follow steps and a heavenly flavor, there’s no need to settle for store-bought anymore. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe that promises warmth on the chilliest of days!
Why love Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls?
Incredible Flavor: The harmony of chai spices and cinnamon gives these rolls a delightful twist that elevates breakfast.
Simple to Make: Even novice bakers can enjoy success with this approachable recipe that requires minimal skills.
Versatile Options: Create overnight or gluten-free versions to suit your dietary needs or convenience.
Irresistible Glaze: Topping them with a chai latte glaze adds a creamy sweetness that makes every bite memorable.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a brunch or cozy family breakfast, these rolls are sure to impress everyone!
Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Roll Ingredients
For the Dough
- Almond Milk – Provides moisture and acts as the liquid base; can switch to any preferred plant-based milk.
- Black Tea Bags – Infuses that delightful chai flavor; choose high-quality tea for the best taste.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with agave syrup if desired.
- Chai Spice Blend – Brings warmth and spice; you can craft your blend or buy a store-bought one.
- Organic All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the dough; a gluten-free flour blend works for a GF version.
- Organic Artisan Bread Flour – Contributes to the fluffy, brioche-like texture; replace with an appropriate amount of all-purpose flour if unavailable.
- Organic Cane Sugar – Sweetens the dough; regular granulated sugar can be used as a substitute.
- Rapid Rise Yeast – Aids in quick dough rising; active dry yeast is fine but will require longer rising time.
- Chai Tea Mixture (warm) – Infuses the dough with chai flavor; save a portion for the glaze.
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast, making for an airy dough.
- Vegan Butter (melted) – Provides moisture and richness; coconut oil can substitute if needed.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use pure extract for a wholesome taste.
- Sea Salt – Balances sweetness in the dough.
For the Filling
- Organic Brown Sugar – Used for a caramel-like sweetness in the filling.
- Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
For the Glaze
- Organic Powdered Sugar – Creates a smooth and sweet topping for the finished rolls.
How to Make Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls
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Make Chai Tea: In a saucepan, boil the almond milk and then steep the black tea bags along with your chai spice blend until aromatic. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
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Prepare Dough: In a bowl, activate the rapid rise yeast by mixing it with warm water and pure maple syrup. After a few minutes, combine the chai tea mixture, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract, then mix in the flours and sea salt until a dough forms.
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Knead Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Make Filling: In a small bowl, mix softened vegan butter, organic brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined and creamy.
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Roll Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then tightly roll it up from one end to the other. Cut into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.
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Rise Again: Cover the rolls and allow them to rise for an additional 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F.
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Bake: Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
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Prepare Glaze: In a medium bowl, whip together the softened vegan butter, organic powdered sugar, and reserved chai tea. Once the rolls are out of the oven, spread the glaze generously over the warm rolls.
Optional: Sprinkle with additional cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls
- Warm Ingredients: Ensure your almond milk is warm but not hot when mixing with yeast to prevent killing it, ensuring proper dough rise.
- Room Temperature: Use room temperature ingredients like vegan butter and almond milk for a smoother dough that mixes easily and achieves the best texture.
- Consistent Tightness: When rolling the dough, maintain a steady and consistent tightness to avoid loose rolls that may unravel during baking.
- Clean Cuts: For perfect rolls, use unflavored dental floss to cut them; this prevents squishing and keeps their shape intact.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the chai spices to your liking—more ginger or cardamom can create a unique flavor experience in your Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls.
Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these rolls your own – there are so many delightful twists to explore!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk with oat or coconut milk for a different flavor profile while keeping it plant-based.
- Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, ensuring your rolls remain fluffy without the gluten.
- Overnight Rolls: Prepare everything the night before, refrigerating the unbaked rolls overnight for easy baking in the morning.
- Filling Twist: Swap the brown sugar and cinnamon for Nutella or a fruit preserve for an unexpected and delightful surprise.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger to the dough or filling for an engaging, spicy note that complements the chai.
- Orange Zest: Incorporate some fresh orange zest into the dough or glaze for a bright, citrusy freshness that sings with the chai spices.
- Nuts & Seeds: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for an added crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the softness.
- Chai-infused Glaze: Use brewed chai tea in place of almond milk for the glaze to enhance that warm, spiced flavor in every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls
- Room Temperature: Store tightly wrapped rolls at room temperature for up to 3 days; enjoy them warm for the best experience.
- Fridge: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warm; you can drizzle a bit of extra glaze for added sweetness!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in the refrigerator covered in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Simply follow the initial steps of making chai tea and preparing the dough, then let the rolls rise for 20 minutes before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven and bake directly from the refrigerator; they’ll come out just as fluffy and delightful! Additionally, if you have leftover rolls, store them tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Just pop them in the oven for a quick warm-up before serving, and you’ll have a cozy treat that saves time on busy mornings!
What to Serve with Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls?
Imagine a delightful breakfast spread where warm spices fill the air, and your taste buds are greeted with sweet, creamy flavors.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant seasonal fruits adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the comforting rolls. The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the chai flavors.
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Steamy Chai Tea: Elevate the experience with a cup of spicy chai tea. The warmth and aroma blend seamlessly with your cinnamon rolls, enhancing each bite.
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Savory Breakfast Tacos: A bit of savory flavor balances the sweetness of the rolls. Consider filling soft tortillas with smashed avocado, black beans, and a sprinkle of lime for a deliciously satisfying contrast.
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Creamy Vegan Yogurt: Top your rolls with a dollop of yogurt, offering a tangy and creamy component that complements the chai latte glaze while keeping things light.
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Maple Pecan Granola: Serve a small bowl of granola on the side, providing crunch and nutty flavors that work harmoniously with the soft, fluffy rolls.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: Cozy up even more with a cup of rich, spiced hot chocolate. The sweetness of the chocolate beautifully matches the sweet, aromatic nature of the rolls for a comforting treat.
Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of almond milk is best for making these rolls?
Absolutely! Using unsweetened almond milk is ideal as it provides the moisture needed without adding extra sugar. However, feel free to swap it with any non-dairy milk like oat or soy if you prefer a different flavor.
How should I store leftover Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to warm them up a bit before enjoying for a delightful taste!
Can I freeze Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls?
Very! To freeze the rolls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to regain their fluffy texture.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, check a few things: make sure your yeast is active (it should bubble when mixed with warm water), ensure the almond milk wasn’t too hot when mixed in, and give the dough enough time in a warm place to rise. If you still have trouble, try a warmer spot like on top of the oven while it’s preheating to give it a little boost!
Are these rolls safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
When making Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls, ensure the ingredients used are pet-friendly, especially if your furry friends are curious about your baking! The rolls are free from dairy and eggs, making them suitable for vegans. However, ingredients like cinnamon and nutmeg can be harmful to pets, so keep these rolls out of reach. Always double-check for potential allergies with anyone who may enjoy these rolls, particularly regarding gluten or nut allergies.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! To create gluten-free Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’s best to use one that contains a binding agent to achieve the desired fluffy texture. Follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll have a delightful gluten-free version all set to enjoy!
Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls for Cozy Fall Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, boil the almond milk and steep the black tea bags along with your chai spice blend until aromatic. Allow to cool completely.
- In a bowl, activate the rapid rise yeast by mixing it with warm water and pure maple syrup. Add the chai tea mixture, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract, then mix in the flours and sea salt until a dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, mix softened vegan butter, organic brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until creamy.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then tightly roll it up. Cut into 12 equal rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and allow them to rise for an additional 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- In a medium bowl, whip together the softened vegan butter, organic powdered sugar, and reserved chai tea. Spread the glaze generously over the warm rolls.