Soft Vegan Dinner Rolls

The smell of these rolls baking takes me back to my first vegan Thanksgiving, when I nervously served them to skeptical family members who couldn't believe they were completely dairy-free. Watching their expressions change from hesitation to seconds and thirds was incredibly validating.

I once made twelve batches for a community potluck, lining them up on every available surface of my tiny kitchen while they rose. The best part was watching neighbors drift toward my apartment door, following that unmistakable bread-baking aroma through the hallway.

Ingredients

• Unsweetened almond milk: The subtle nuttiness complements the wheat beautifully, though any plant milk works wonderfully here
• Vegan butter: I've found that melting it into the warm milk helps it incorporate evenly for consistent richness throughout every bite
• Organic cane sugar: This feeds the yeast and creates that gorgeous golden-brown crust we all love
• Active dry yeast: Always check the expiration date, as nothing ruins bread-making faster than sleepy yeast
• All-purpose flour: Keep some extra nearby for dusting your hands and work surface during shaping
• Fine sea salt: Don't skip this, as it balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors

Instructions

Wake up the yeast:

Warm your plant-based milk until it feels comfortably warm against your wrist, then stir in melted butter and sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle the yeast across the surface and watch it bloom into a fragrant, foamy layer that proves it's alive and ready to work.

Form the dough:

Pour in your flour and salt, mixing until the shaggy mess turns into a soft, cohesive ball that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Knead with purpose:

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and fold, push, and turn it for 8 to 10 minutes, feeling it transform from sticky and rough to smooth and elastic under your hands.

First rise:

Place your dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and tuck it in a warm corner to nap for an hour until it's puffed into a beautifully doubled pillow.

Shape the rolls:

Gently deflate the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces, cupping each one with your palm to create perfect smooth balls that fit snugly into your greased baking dish.

Second rise:

Cover the dish again and let the rolls puff up for 30 minutes until they're touching each other and looking wonderfully plump.

Bake to golden:

Slide them into a 375°F oven for 18 to 20 minutes, watching the tops turn a mouthwatering deep golden brown that makes the whole house smell incredible.

Butter finish:

Brush the hot rolls immediately with melted vegan butter, watching it soak in and create an irresistible glossy sheen.

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These rolls have become my go-to comfort food during rainy weekends, especially when paired with a steaming bowl of tomato soup. Something about the process of kneading dough feels meditative, and the end result is always worth every minute spent waiting for them to rise.

Making Ahead

The dough can be prepared the night before and kept in the refrigerator for its first rise. The cold actually develops more complex flavors, and you can shape and bake them fresh the next day.

Freezing Instructions

Once baked and cooled, these rolls freeze beautifully for up to three months. I wrap each one individually in plastic, then place them all in a freezer bag so I can grab exactly what I need.

Serving Suggestions

Warm leftovers in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to recapture that fresh-baked texture. I love experimenting with different herbs or garlic powder in the dough for special occasions.

• Try brushing with roasted garlic-infused vegan butter for extra depth
• These make incredible slider buns for plant-based burgers
• Dip them in olive oil and balsamic for an appetizer twist

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There's something profoundly satisfying about making your own bread, and these vegan rolls prove you don't need dairy to achieve that perfect, comforting homemade flavor.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute other plant milks?

Yes, soy, oat, or cashew milk can be used interchangeably without affecting texture or flavor significantly.

→ How do I ensure the dough rises properly?

Use lukewarm plant milk and active dry yeast, and keep the dough covered in a warm spot during rising phases for best results.

→ What is the purpose of brushing melted vegan butter after baking?

It adds a rich, buttery flavor and gives the rolls a glossy, appealing finish.

→ Can garlic powder or herbs be added?

Yes, adding garlic powder or fresh herbs to the dough imparts extra flavor and complements the soft texture.

→ Are these rolls freezer-friendly?

Absolutely, they freeze well and can be gently reheated to restore their softness and flavor.