The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Imagine biting into the warm, gooey center of a cinnamon roll, perfectly married with the fluffy, glazed delight of a donut. This dream is now a delicious reality with our incredible vegan Cinnamon Roll Donuts recipe! Crafted to perfection, these treats offer that iconic sweet cinnamon swirl and tender crumb, all without a hint of compromise. Get ready to transform your kitchen into the most aromatic bakery, creating plant-based Cinnamon Roll Donuts that will captivate every palate.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Donuts
These aren’t just any donuts; they’re a celebration of flavor and mindful eating. Hana’s touch ensures a delightful experience from start to finish.
Irresistibly Delicious: Experience the perfect fusion of a tender donut and the sweet, spiced swirl of a cinnamon roll, creating truly unforgettable Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Surprisingly Simple: With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can master these elegant vegan Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Wholesome & Plant-Based: Enjoy a healthier indulgence crafted with plant-based ingredients, making these Cinnamon Roll Donuts guilt-free.
Waste-Reducing Tips: Learn how to make the most of every ingredient, embracing an anti-waste philosophy for your Cinnamon Roll Donuts preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect Cinnamon Roll Donuts begins with choosing quality, conscious ingredients. Hana always focuses on fresh, vibrant components that sing together in harmony.
For the Donuts:
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, unbleached
2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (240ml) warm plant-based milk (almond or oat milk works beautifully)
1/4 cup (60g) vegan butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling:
1/2 cup (115g) vegan butter, softened
1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, organic for best flavor
For the Vanilla Glaze:
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
3-4 tablespoons plant-based milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Selecting unbleached flour ensures a cleaner taste, and using organic cinnamon truly elevates the aromatic experience of these Cinnamon Roll Donuts. Remember, every ingredient contributes to the final masterpiece, making these Cinnamon Roll Donuts truly special.
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
Hana loves encouraging creativity and conscious choices in the kitchen. These Cinnamon Roll Donuts offer fantastic opportunities for healthy swaps and exciting variations without compromising flavor or texture. For instance, you can use whole wheat pastry flour for a fiber boost in your Cinnamon Roll Donuts, adjusting liquid slightly as needed.
Instead of granulated sugar, consider a blend of coconut sugar and a small amount of erythritol for a lower glycemic option in both the donut dough and the glaze. For the cinnamon swirl, finely chopped dates can offer a natural sweetness and caramel-like texture when combined with the cinnamon. You might even add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the filling for an extra layer of warmth, giving these Cinnamon Roll Donuts a unique twist.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different plant-based milks like cashew or soy for varied richness. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter can replace vegan butter in the swirl, though the flavor will be different. These delightful Cinnamon Roll Donuts are incredibly versatile.
For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, these Cinnamon Roll Donuts are a fantastic base for healthy variations. You can explore recipes like Fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, perfect for adding a delightful twist to your baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
Gathering your tools before you begin ensures a smooth and enjoyable baking process for these magnificent Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Large mixing bowls
Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional, but highly recommended)
Rolling pin
Donut cutter (or two round cutters, one larger and one smaller)
Baking sheets lined with parchment paper
Deep pot or Dutch oven for frying
Slotted spoon or spider strainer
Wire cooling rack
Small saucepan (for glaze)
Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s embark on the journey to create your own irresistible Cinnamon Roll Donuts, following Hana’s precise and mindful steps.
Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm plant-based milk (ensure it’s around 105-115°F or 40-46°C), a pinch of the granulated sugar, and the instant dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is active and ready to create fluffy Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Prepare the Dough: To the yeast mixture, add the remaining granulated sugar, salt, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing with a spoon or your stand mixer’s dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface or in the mixer for 7-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. This crucial step develops the gluten, giving your Cinnamon Roll Donuts their perfect texture.
First Rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Patience here leads to truly airy Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Make the Cinnamon Swirl Filling: While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until light and fluffy. Set aside.
Shape the Donuts: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Aim for roughly 12×18 inches. Spread the cinnamon swirl filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border on one long edge. This generous filling makes these proper Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge, creating a log. Pinch the seam shut to seal. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the log into 1-inch thick rounds. You should get about 12-15 Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Second Rise: Arrange the sliced Cinnamon Roll Donuts on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them. Cover loosely with a clean towel and let them rise again for another 30-45 minutes, or until visibly puffy.
Fry the Donuts: Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower 2-3 Cinnamon Roll Donuts into the hot oil at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.Use a slotted spoon to flip them. Adjust heat as needed to maintain oil temperature. Frying too fast results in raw centers, too slow makes them greasy.
Drain & Glaze: Once golden, remove the Cinnamon Roll Donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. While they are still warm, prepare the glaze.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, a tiny bit at a time, until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. Dip each warm Cinnamon Roll Donut into the glaze, or drizzle generously over them.Let the glaze set slightly before serving. Enjoy your magnificent Cinnamon Roll Donuts!
Starting your journey with Cinnamon Roll Donuts is made easier with clear instructions that guide you each step of the way. Be sure to check out the Homemade Glazed Donuts for more tips on creating the perfect glaze for your donuts.
Pro Tips for Success
To truly master these Cinnamon Roll Donuts, a few insider tips from Hana can make all the difference, ensuring every batch is a triumph.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your plant-based milk is just warm enough to activate the yeast, not too hot (which kills it) or too cold (which inhibits it). An instant-read thermometer is your best friend here for perfect Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Don’t Skimp on Kneading: Thorough kneading is essential for developing gluten, which gives your Cinnamon Roll Donuts their chewy yet tender texture. If you don’t have a stand mixer, a good 10-15 minutes of hand-kneading will achieve the same result.
Oil Temperature Control: Maintaining the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) is key to perfectly fried Cinnamon Roll Donuts. Too low, and they’ll absorb too much oil; too high, and they’ll brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. A deep-fry thermometer is invaluable.
Pinch the Seam: When rolling the dough for the cinnamon swirl, really pinch that seam shut to prevent the filling from oozing out during frying. This keeps your Cinnamon Roll Donuts looking beautiful.
Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Place the shaped Cinnamon Roll Donuts on individual squares of parchment paper. This makes transferring them to the hot oil much easier and prevents them from deflating.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While these Cinnamon Roll Donuts are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly store them to savor later, minimizing waste.
Store leftover glazed Cinnamon Roll Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The glaze may soften slightly. For longer storage, freeze unglazed Cinnamon Roll Donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
Thaw at room temperature and then glaze. To reheat glazed Cinnamon Roll Donuts, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave can revive their tenderness, or warm them gently in a low oven for a few minutes. Avoid overheating, as this can make them tough. These Cinnamon Roll Donuts are a fantastic make-ahead treat!
While it’s hard to resist these fresh Cinnamon Roll Donuts, knowing how to store them can help you enjoy them longer. You might also want to try the twist of Old-Fashioned Apple Cider Donuts for a seasonal treat that packs its own unique flavor.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These sweet Cinnamon Roll Donuts pair wonderfully with refreshing, wholesome additions, balancing the richness with fresh flavors. For a truly delightful breakfast or brunch experience, consider serving your Cinnamon Roll Donuts alongside a vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal berries, melon, and citrus segments. A bowl of creamy plant-based yogurt, perhaps drizzled with a touch of maple syrup and a sprinkle of granola, offers a lovely textural contrast.
For a savory counterpoint, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a small portion of roasted root vegetables can beautifully complement the sweetness of the Cinnamon Roll Donuts. And, of course, a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee or a herbal tea makes for the perfect accompaniment to these scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bake these Cinnamon Roll Donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, you absolutely can! For a baked version, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the risen Cinnamon Roll Donuts on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
They will have a slightly different texture – more like a sweet roll – but will still be incredibly delicious and fragrant. Baking is a great alternative for lighter Cinnamon Roll Donuts.
How can I make these Cinnamon Roll Donuts gluten-free?
While this recipe is developed for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You might need to add a touch more liquid or adjust the kneading time as gluten-free doughs can be less elastic. Achieving the exact texture of traditional Cinnamon Roll Donuts can be challenging, but a delicious result is still possible with careful adjustments.
Can I prepare the dough for Cinnamon Roll Donuts in advance?
Absolutely! After the first rise, you can gently punch down the dough, place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it overnight (up to 18 hours). The next morning, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before rolling it out, filling, and shaping your Cinnamon Roll Donuts as directed. This makes preparing fresh Cinnamon Roll Donuts for breakfast much easier.
Cinnamon Roll Donuts combine the beloved elements of cinnamon rolls and donuts, catering to both lovers of pastries and innovative baking. This delightful fusion offers a unique twist on traditional flavors, making it a sought-after treat for many enthusiasts interested in exploring more about pastry innovations like doughnuts.
Final Thoughts
These vegan Cinnamon Roll Donuts are more than just a treat; they’re an invitation to joy, a testament to creativity in the kitchen, and a delicious way to embrace plant-based goodness. Hana hopes you find as much delight in making and sharing them as she does. Let these fragrant Cinnamon Roll Donuts fill your home with warmth and happiness!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Approximate values, based on 15 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugars | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 4g |
Cinnamon Roll Donuts
These vegan Cinnamon Roll Donuts perfectly combine the flavors of a cinnamon roll and the tender crumb of a donut, offering a delicious and guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm plant-based milk, a pinch of the granulated sugar, and the instant dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- To the yeast mixture, add the remaining granulated sugar, salt, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface or in a mixer for 7-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
- Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough in it, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, prepare the filling by creaming together softened vegan butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until light and fluffy.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle, then spread the cinnamon swirl filling over it.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 1-inch thick rounds.
- Arrange the donuts on a lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the donuts to a cooling rack and prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract.
- Dip each warm donut into the glaze or drizzle it over them and let set before serving.
Notes
Ensure the milk is at the right temperature to activate the yeast. Maintain oil temperature while frying for perfect results. Store glazed donuts at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze unglazed for up to 1 month.
