Irresistible Vegan Cinnamon Roll Cookies: An Oil-Free Delight
Discover the magic of cinnamon rolls reimagined into a delightful cookie form. These Vegan Cinnamon Roll Cookies offer all the comforting flavors of your favorite breakfast pastry, but in a convenient, shortbread-like bite. Crafted with a soft, pliable cookie dough, generously dusted with aromatic cinnamon sugar, then meticulously rolled, sliced, and baked, these cookies are an absolute revelation. Best of all, they are a refined oil-free vegan recipe, proving that wholesome ingredients can lead to extraordinary taste.
Imagine the rich, buttery texture of a shortbread cookie combined with the sweet, spiced swirl of a classic cinnamon roll – that’s precisely what these cookies deliver. They are undeniably addictive, offering a perfect harmony of crispiness and melt-in-your-mouth softness. Ideal for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a comforting treat with your morning coffee, these cinnamony bites are designed to impress.
A standout feature of this recipe is its commitment to being oil-free without compromising on flavor or texture. The clever use of nut butter and nut flour creates a sturdy yet tender shortbread-style cookie, enriched with a vibrant cinnamon sugar filling. While delicious on their own, a simple sugar icing can elevate them further. For a seasonal twist, consider swapping cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or a chai blend. These cookies are not just easy to make and utterly delicious; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.
Explore More Delicious Vegan Cookie Recipes
If you love these cinnamon roll cookies, be sure to check out some of our other popular vegan cookie creations:
- PB Chickpea Cookie Pie (Can be nut-free, Gluten-Free)
- Lemon Chia Cookies (Gluten-Free option available)
- Cardamom Snickerdoodles (Gluten-Free option available)
- Peanut Butter Pecan Cookies
- Almond Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Gluten-Free, Oil-Free)
- Ginger Tahini Cookies (Gluten-Free option available)
The Aromatic Allure of Cinnamon: Choosing Your Spice
Cinnamon is the heart and soul of these cookies, and its quality can significantly impact the final flavor. Did you know that “cinnamon” can refer to several types of bark? Often, what we buy in stores is Cassia cinnamon, which has a bolder, spicier flavor. True cinnamon, or Ceylon cinnamon, is lighter, sweeter, and more delicate. If you have the opportunity, experiment with different varieties to discover your personal preference. I find a blend of true cinnamon and Indonesian cassia offers a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly pleasing aromatic profile that elevates these cookies from good to outstanding.
Customize Your Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Flavor Variations
These cookies are incredibly versatile! While cinnamon is the classic choice, don’t hesitate to get creative with other spice blends. Imagine the cozy warmth of pumpkin pie spice, the exotic notes of cardamom, or the invigorating kick of chai spice woven into these delectable bites. Simply swap the cinnamon in the filling for your preferred spice blend. Once cooled, a drizzle of simple sugar icing adds a beautiful touch and extra sweetness, making them perfect for gifting in holiday baskets or enjoying as a special treat.
Vegan Cinnamon Roll Cookies – Oil-Free
Vegan Richa
10 mins
15 mins
25 mins
12 cookies
Cookie
American, Vegan
Vegan Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Soft shortbread like cookie dough dusted with cinnamon sugar, rolled, sliced and baked for delicious cinnamon roll bites. Refined Oil-free Vegan Recipe.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough:
- 2 tbsp smooth cashew butter
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 3/4 cup flour (unbleached all-purpose recommended)
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Cinnamon mixture:
- 2-3 tbsp brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice, chai spice etc.)
- Oil spray or water spray (as needed)
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine the cashew butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until well combined. (Allowing the nut butter to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before mixing can help it combine more easily).
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Gradually add the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture to form a soft dough. Begin with 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour and add an additional tablespoon at a time if necessary, until the desired consistency is reached.
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Let the prepared dough rest for about 10 minutes. If the dough still feels too sticky, incorporate another tablespoon of flour. The goal is a smooth, pliable dough that is neither excessively dry nor overly sticky. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large, thin rectangle, approximately 2mm thick.
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In a small separate bowl, mix the brown sugar (or coconut sugar) and cinnamon until fully combined. Lightly spray the rolled-out dough with water or a fine mist of oil. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed. Use a little water to seal the edge of the log.
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Place the dough log in the refrigerator to chill for 15 to 30 minutes. This step helps the log firm up, making it easier to slice cleanly. While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 335°F (168°C).
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Once chilled, slice the log into individual cookies, about 1/2 inch thick. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring. For an extra treat, drizzle with a simple sugar icing once cooled. Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Video
Notes
To make these cookies nut-free, substitute cashew butter with sunbutter and almond flour with sunflower seed meal.
I have not experimented with making these gluten-free myself. However, a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work. The key is to keep the dough adequately moist to prevent it from breaking apart during the rolling process.
Nutrition information provided is for 1 cookie.
Nutrition
Calories: 99kcal, Carbohydrates: 17g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 2g, Sodium: 50mg, Potassium: 56mg, Sugar: 7g, Calcium: 26mg, Iron: 0.7mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you make this recipe? We’d love to hear from you! Rate and comment below to share your experience.
Why Choose Vegan & Oil-Free Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Embracing a vegan and oil-free lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing your favorite treats. These Vegan Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a testament to how delicious and satisfying plant-based baking can be. By eliminating refined oils, we reduce unnecessary saturated fats and focus on whole food ingredients like cashew butter and almond flour, which contribute healthy fats and protein, along with an incredible richness. This approach makes these cookies not just a delightful indulgence but also a healthier alternative to conventional recipes, suitable for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to enjoy guilt-free sweets.
Mastering the Dough: Tips for Perfect Rolls
The secret to perfect cinnamon roll cookies lies in the dough. Achieving the right consistency is crucial for both flavor and ease of handling. When mixing the cashew butter, maple syrup, and vanilla, ensure they are thoroughly combined. If your cashew butter is cold, letting it sit at room temperature for a few minutes will make it softer and easier to mix, preventing lumps. When adding the flours, do so gradually. The goal is a dough that is soft and pliable but not sticky. It should be easy to roll out without tearing. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more maple syrup or plant milk; if too sticky, a little more flour. Don’t skip the chilling step for the log – this firming time is essential for clean, uniform slices, giving your cookies that signature cinnamon roll swirl.
Beyond Baking: Creative Serving and Storage Ideas
These vegan cinnamon roll cookies are fantastic on their own, but there are many ways to enhance your enjoyment. Serve them warm from the oven for a gooey, comforting experience. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or a glass of plant-based milk. For a dessert-like presentation, consider crumbling them over dairy-free ice cream or using them as a base for a mini vegan trifle. To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’ve added icing, refrigeration is best, and they’ll keep well for up to two weeks. These cookies also freeze beautifully for longer storage; simply thaw and enjoy!
Embrace Wholesome Baking: Your New Favorite Cookie
We believe that healthy eating should never be boring, and these Vegan Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a shining example of that philosophy. They challenge the notion that vegan and oil-free treats lack flavor or texture. Instead, they offer a rich, satisfying, and deeply comforting experience that appeals to all palates. Whether you’re an experienced vegan baker or just starting your plant-based journey, this recipe provides a straightforward and rewarding path to creating a truly special dessert. Gather your ingredients, get ready to roll, and prepare to fall in love with these wonderfully spiced, wholesome cookies.