Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Soft and fluffy Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful rolls, filled with a homemade lemon curd and topped with zesty lemon icing, bring a burst of citrus flavor to your breakfast table or dessert spread. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just enjoying a lazy Sunday, these sweet rolls are bound to impress with their unique combination of softness and tangy sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these rolls are perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Zesty Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest create a bright, refreshing taste that elevates this treat beyond ordinary sweet rolls.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them as a delightful breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert at gatherings.
- Plant-Based Delight: Made entirely without animal products, these rolls cater to vegan diets while still being indulgent.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful icing and garnish make these sweet rolls visually appealing for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready helps streamline the process for a smoother baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining wet and dry ingredients effectively without spills.
- Whisk: Ensures that your lemon curd is smooth and well-mixed for the best flavor.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly, making it easier to shape into rolls.
Ingredients
Soft and fluffy Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are filled with a homemade lemon curd, topped with lemon icing. They’re zesty, sweet, and delicious.
For the Dough
- 115g of dairy-free butter
- 400ml of dairy-free milk (room temperature)
- 50g of caster sugar
- 1 pack active dry yeast (approx 7g)
- 500g of plain flour (plus extra for dusting)
For the Lemon Curd Filling
- 2 lemons (zest only)
- 80g of lemon juice (from fresh lemons)
- 125g of coconut milk (cream only)
- 125g of caster sugar
- 3 tablespoons of cornflour / cornstarch
- Pinch of turmeric (or yellow food gel) optional
For the Icing
- 1 pot of Renshaw Lemon Icing
- Fresh lemons (zest and slices)
How to Make Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm dairy-free milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Melt the dairy-free butter and mix it into the yeast mixture along with caster sugar.
- Gradually add plain flour while stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic (about 5–10 minutes).
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Curd Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together coconut milk cream, sugar, cornflour, lemon juice, zest, and turmeric until thickened.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
- Spread the cooled lemon curd evenly over the dough.
- Roll up tightly from one end to form a log shape.
- Cut into equal pieces (about 6–9 depending on preference) and place them on a lined baking tray.
Step 4: Bake
- Allow rolls to rise again for about 30 minutes on the baking tray covered with cloth.
- Bake in preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 5: Icing & Serving
- Once baked, let cool slightly before drizzling with Renshaw Lemon Icing.
- Garnish with fresh lemon zest or slices if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls warm from the oven!
How to Serve Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Mixed Berries: Serve your rolls with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor.
- Sliced Bananas: Add slices of banana for a creamy contrast that complements the lemon.
Accompanied by Tea or Coffee
- Herbal Tea: Enjoy these sweet rolls with a calming chamomile or refreshing mint tea.
- Espresso: A shot of espresso pairs well, balancing the sweetness with its rich flavor.
Topped with Extra Icing
- Lemon Icing Drizzle: Enhance the zesty flavor by drizzling more lemon icing over the top before serving.
- Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream can add extra decadence.
Served Warm
- Fresh Out of the Oven: These rolls are best enjoyed warm, right after baking, when they’re soft and fluffy.
- Reheated: If they cool down, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their warmth.
How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
To achieve the ultimate Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your dairy-free milk and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Knead Thoroughly: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic to create fluffy rolls.
- Allow Proper Rising Time: Let the dough rise until it doubles in size; this is crucial for achieving lightness.
- Check Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly to ensure even baking. An oven thermometer can help maintain accuracy.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider these options to complement your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can brighten up your plate.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruits for added texture and flavor.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding adds a nutritious element alongside your sweet rolls.
- Savory Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
- Green Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the sweet rolls.
- Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts for added crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Incorrect Yeast Activation: Failing to activate your yeast properly can lead to dense rolls. Always ensure that your dairy-free milk is warm (not hot) before adding the yeast and sugar.
- Overworking the Dough: Kneading the dough too much can make it tough. Mix just until combined and allow it to rise adequately for a soft texture.
- Skipping Zesting: Not using fresh lemon zest means missing out on vibrant flavor. Always zest your lemons just before use to maximize freshness.
- Inaccurate Measurements: Using wrong ingredient amounts can ruin your rolls. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
- Ignoring Rest Time: Rushing the resting period can prevent proper dough rise. Allow the dough to rest as instructed for fluffy rolls.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure rolls are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual rolls on high for about 15-20 seconds. Add a damp paper towel to keep moisture.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes or until warm throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls.
What makes these Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls so fluffy?
The secret lies in proper yeast activation and allowing adequate rising time, which helps create a light texture.
Can I customize the filling of my Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls?
Absolutely! You can add berries, chocolate chips, or nuts for a unique twist.
How do I know when my Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed.
What should I serve with Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls?
These rolls pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fillings or toppings. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the zesty goodness that brightens any meal!
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, a perfect fusion of soft, fluffy dough and vibrant lemon curd. These rolls are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors that can brighten any breakfast or dessert spread. With the refreshing zing of fresh lemons and a luscious top layer of lemon icing, these vegan pastries are both indulgent and guilt-free. Ideal for special occasions or lazy weekends, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress guests or family alike. Enjoy the zesty goodness warm from the oven, or serve them with fresh fruit and your favorite hot beverage for a truly satisfying experience.
Ingredients
- 115g dairy-free butter
- 400ml dairy-free milk (room temperature)
- 50g caster sugar
- 1 pack active dry yeast (approx 7g)
- 500g plain flour
- 2 lemons (zest only)
- 80g lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 125g coconut milk (cream only)
- 125g caster sugar (for filling)
- Renshaw Lemon Icing
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm dairy-free milk and active dry yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix melted dairy-free butter into the yeast mixture along with caster sugar.
- Gradually add plain flour while stirring until a soft dough forms; knead on a floured surface for about 5–10 minutes until smooth.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover with cloth, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- For the filling, whisk together coconut milk cream, sugar, cornflour, lemon juice, zest, and turmeric over medium heat until thickened; cool slightly before using.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out risen dough into a rectangle and spread cooled lemon curd over it.
- Roll tightly into a log shape and cut into equal pieces; place on a lined baking tray.
- Allow rolls to rise again for about 30 minutes covered with cloth before baking for approximately 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Once baked, cool slightly and drizzle with Renshaw Lemon Icing; garnish with fresh lemon zest if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (85g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
