Description
This Giant Cast Iron Cinnamon Roll features irresistibly soft, fluffy dough with a perfect cinnamon swirl and a luscious plant-based (natural) frosting. Baked to golden perfection in a cast iron skillet, it delivers comforting warmth and rich flavor with every bite. Perfect for sharing, this recipe uses simple pantry staples and offers delicious versatility with options for fruit, nuts, or chocolate additions.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm plant-based milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cinnamon Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons softened vegetable oil (for spreading on dough)
Frosting
- 4 ounces plant-based cream cheese (natural)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Activate the yeast by combining it with warm plant-based milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it stand until bubbly and fragrant, about 5-10 minutes. In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms that springs back when pressed gently.
- Let It Rise: Cover the dough with a clean cloth and place it in a warm spot. Allow it to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, to develop a soft and airy texture.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Spread the softened vegetable oil evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously to create gooey swirls.
- Roll and Arrange: Roll the dough tightly into a log shape, then slice into thick, even pieces. Place the rolls snugly into a preheated cast iron skillet. Let the rolls rise again slightly before baking to ensure a light texture.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cinnamon rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the aroma fills the kitchen.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls bake, whisk together plant-based cream cheese (natural), powdered sugar, natural vanilla extract, and natural gelling agent until smooth and luscious.
- Frost and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and spread the frosting immediately over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the swirls. Serve warm for the best experience.
Notes
- Avoid adding excess flour during kneading to keep dough soft and fluffy.
- Ensure the plant-based milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
- Use a serrated knife with gentle sawing motions for even roll slices.
- Allow the shaped rolls to proof a second time before baking for better texture.
- Preheat the cast iron skillet to achieve a golden crust on edges and bottom.
- Spread frosting on hot rolls so it melts nicely but avoid overheating it.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll, plant-based frosting, cast iron skillet, soft dough, cinnamon swirl, vegan dessert, comfort food