Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Soft and fluffy Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that will brighten any occasion. With their zesty lemon curd filling and sweet lemon icing, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Their unique combination of flavors makes them a standout among pastries. Whether you’re having guests over or simply indulging yourself, these rolls are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Deliciously zesty: The use of fresh lemons in both the curd and icing gives these rolls a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Versatile treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these sweet rolls can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
- Dairy-free goodness: With completely vegan ingredients, everyone can enjoy these delightful rolls without compromising dietary preferences.
- Impressive presentation: The bright lemon color and glossy icing make these rolls a beautiful addition to any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spills.
- Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly, ensuring uniform sized sweet rolls.
- Baking tray: A good baking tray ensures even cooking of your rolls for perfect texture every time.
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.
Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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
– 1 pot of Renshaw Lemon Icing
– Fresh lemons (zest and slices)
How to Make Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by warming the dairy-free milk slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine it with active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add melted dairy-free butter, caster sugar, lemon zest, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well before gradually adding in the flour.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place it back in the bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Curd Filling
While waiting for the dough to rise, prepare your lemon curd. In a saucepan, mix coconut milk, caster sugar, cornflour, lemon juice, and turmeric over medium heat. Stir continuously until thickened.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
After rising, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll it out into a rectangle shape on a floured surface.
Step 6: Assemble the Rolls
Spread the prepared lemon curd over the rolled-out dough evenly. Then roll it tightly into a log shape.
Step 7: Cut Into Rolls
Slice the log into equal pieces about an inch thick. Arrange them on a lined baking tray.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a cloth again and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake rolls for about 20–25 minutes until golden brown on top.
Step 10: Add Icing
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before drizzling Renshaw Lemon Icing on top. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls warm!
How to Serve Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that can brighten any occasion. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls add a zesty touch to your table.
For Breakfast
- Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
- Pair with vegan yogurt for a creamy contrast to the zesty rolls.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top of the icing for an extra zing.
As Dessert
- Serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Drizzle additional lemon icing over the top before serving for extra sweetness.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Arrange on a platter with other pastries like croissants and muffins.
- Include fresh lemon slices and mint leaves as decorative garnishes.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Creating the perfect Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your rolls turn out soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your dairy-free milk and butter to room temperature helps with the yeast activation.
- Knead the dough well: Kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls their fluffy texture. Aim for about 5-10 minutes.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place: This helps the yeast activate better, leading to lighter rolls. A sunny kitchen spot works well!
- Don’t skip the lemon zest: Adding lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor in both the rolls and the filling. Use fresh lemons for best results.
- Monitor baking time closely: Every oven is different; check for golden-brown tops to avoid overbaking.
- Cool before icing: Allow your rolls to cool slightly before adding icing to prevent it from melting away.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are versatile and pair well with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options that complement their zesty flavor.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
- Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing contrast.
- Savory Tofu Scramble: A protein-packed dish that contrasts nicely with sweet rolls while keeping breakfast hearty.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages that enhance the lemony flavors of the rolls.
- Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy and nutritious, this pudding pairs well as a light side dish.
- Avocado Toast: The rich creaminess of avocado provides balance against the sweetness of the rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids to ensure success.
- Ignoring dough consistency: If the dough feels too sticky or dry, adjust with small amounts of flour or milk. This will help achieve the perfect texture.
- Over-proofing the dough: Allowing the dough to rise too long can lead to dense rolls. Follow timing guidelines and look for a fluffy texture instead.
- Skipping the lemon zest: The zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; use fresh lemons for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your dairy-free butter and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a better rise and texture in your rolls.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls in an airtight container.
- They last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking tray and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls.
Can I make Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls gluten-free?
You can replace plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for proper structure.
How do I make lemon curd for these sweet rolls?
Combine coconut milk, sugar, cornflour, lemon juice, and zest over low heat until thickened. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
Can I customize the filling of Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls?
Yes! You can add poppy seeds, nuts, or even dried fruit along with the lemon curd for added flavor and texture.
How should I serve Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls?
These sweet rolls are perfect as a breakfast treat or dessert. Serve them warm with extra lemon icing drizzled on top!
Final Thoughts
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are a perfect blend of zesty and sweet flavors that everyone will love. Their fluffy texture makes them ideal for breakfast or as a delightful snack. Feel free to customize your rolls with various fillings or toppings to make them uniquely yours!

Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 rolls 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, a perfect treat for any occasion. These soft and fluffy rolls are filled with homemade lemon curd and topped with a sweet lemon icing, creating a refreshing burst of citrus flavor in every bite. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as dessert, these vegan pastries will surely impress your family and friends. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they offer a delicious way to brighten your day. With their eye-catching presentation and irresistible aroma, these rolls are a must-try for anyone looking to savor a zesty and sweet delight.
Ingredients
- 115g dairy-free butter
- 400ml dairy-free milk (room temperature)
- 50g caster sugar
- 1 pack active dry yeast (approx. 7g)
- 500g plain flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 lemons (zest only)
- 80g lemon juice (from fresh lemons)
- 125g coconut milk (cream only)
- 3 tablespoons cornflour/cornstarch
- Renshaw Lemon Icing
Instructions
- Warm the dairy-free milk and combine it with active dry yeast; let it froth for about 5 minutes.
- Mix melted dairy-free butter, caster sugar, lemon zest, and salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour until combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for an hour or until doubled.
- Prepare the lemon curd by mixing coconut milk, caster sugar, cornflour, lemon juice, and turmeric over medium heat until thickened.
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle, spread the lemon curd evenly over it, roll tightly into a log shape, then slice into equal pieces.
- Arrange on a lined baking tray and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake rolls for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cooling slightly before drizzling with Renshaw Lemon Icing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg