Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Soft and fluffy Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion. Bursting with zesty lemon flavor, these delightful rolls are not just delicious but also easy to make. Ideal for brunch, dessert, or a sweet snack, they’re topped with a luscious lemon icing that takes them over the top. Enjoy the wonderful combination of sweetness and tartness that makes these rolls irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can succeed.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a bright, flavorful experience in every bite.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack—these rolls fit every occasion.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Made without dairy products, they cater to vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
- Homemade Goodness: The homemade lemon curd elevates these rolls, adding a personal touch that’s hard to resist.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe for Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your sweet rolls turn out perfectly every time.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for consistent baking results.
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)
- 2 lemons (zest only)
For the Lemon Curd Filling
- 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 Topping
- 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, melt the dairy-free butter.
- Add dairy-free milk and caster sugar; stir until combined.
- Sprinkle in the active dry yeast; let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Gradually add plain flour and lemon zest; mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Dust your surface with flour; transfer the dough onto it.
- Knead for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl; cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise for 30-45 minutes until doubled in size.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Curd Filling
- In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, coconut milk cream, caster sugar, cornflour/cornstarch, and turmeric until smooth.
- Cook gently on medium heat while stirring continuously until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle about 1cm thick on a floured surface.
- Spread the lemon curd filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll up tightly from one end to form a log; slice into equal pieces.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
- Place roll slices on a lined baking tray; allow them to rise again for about 15 minutes.
- Bake in preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before drizzling with Renshaw Lemon Icing.
Enjoy your delicious Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls!
How to Serve Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that can brighten any meal. They are perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a sweet snack. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Sliced Bananas: A side of banana slices adds creaminess and complements the lemon flavor well.
Accompanied by Beverages
- Herbal Tea: Pair these rolls with chamomile or peppermint tea for a soothing treat.
- Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade can amplify the zesty notes in the rolls.
Topped with Extras
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top for an indulgent twist.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pistachios or almonds for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
To make your Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls even better, consider these simple tips. They will help you achieve the softest and fluffiest rolls imaginable.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps activate the yeast properly, leading to better rise and fluffiness.
- Knead Well: Kneading the dough thoroughly develops gluten, which gives the rolls their nice texture.
- Allow Proper Rising Time: Let your dough rise until it doubles in size; this is crucial for fluffy rolls.
- Don’t Rush Baking Time: Ensure you bake until golden brown for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try adding different fillings like berries or nuts for unique variations on traditional flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of delightful sides that complement their sweetness perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- Granola Yogurt Parfait: Layer vegan yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy contrast.
- Avocado Toast: The rich creaminess of avocado on toasted bread works well against the zesty rolls.
- Chia Pudding: This healthy option adds texture and is an excellent pairing with sweet rolls.
- Savory Scones: Offer a savory option alongside to balance out the sweetness.
- Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with fruits and seeds creates a vibrant dish next to sweet rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Ignoring the yeast proofing: Failing to activate the yeast can lead to dense rolls. Always proof yeast in warm dairy-free milk before mixing.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or milk can hinder dough rise. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.
- Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Knead just until smooth and elastic for soft texture.
- Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can dry out your dough. Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
- Skipping the resting time: Rushing the rising process may lead to flat rolls. Allow adequate time for the dough to rise fully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until warm and fluffy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
- Stovetop: Warm in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls.
Can I make Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Adjust liquid as needed.
How do I make homemade lemon curd?
Homemade lemon curd is simple! Combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, and cornstarch in a pot over medium heat until thickened.
What can I substitute for dairy-free butter?
Coconut oil or margarine works well as a substitute for dairy-free butter in this recipe.
How long does it take to prepare Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, followed by resting and baking time.
Final Thoughts
These Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are fluffy, zesty, and perfect for any occasion. Their delightful taste and texture make them a versatile treat. Feel free to customize with different flavors or fillings!

Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, where fluffy dough meets a tangy homemade lemon curd filling, all topped with luscious lemon icing. These treats are perfect for brightening up brunch, serving as a sweet dessert, or enjoying as a snack any time of day. With a balance of sweet and zesty flavors, these rolls are not only delicious but also simple to make. From novice bakers to seasoned pros, everyone can enjoy this delectable vegan recipe that brings a taste of sunshine to your table.
Ingredients
- 115g dairy-free butter
- 400ml dairy-free milk
- 50g caster sugar
- 7g active dry yeast
- 500g plain flour
- Zest from 2 lemons
- 80g lemon juice (fresh)
- 125g coconut milk (cream only)
- 125g caster sugar (for curd)
- Renshaw Lemon Icing (for topping)
Instructions
- Melt dairy-free butter, mix with milk and sugar, then add yeast; let sit until foamy.
- Combine flour and lemon zest; add to the yeast mixture to form dough.
- Knead until smooth, let rise until doubled in size.
- Prepare lemon curd by whisking juice, coconut cream, sugar, and cornstarch; cook until thickened.
- Roll out dough, spread curd filling, roll tightly into log shape and slice into pieces.
- Let rise again briefly before baking at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before drizzling with lemon icing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg