Why You’ll Love Irresistible Vegan Ube Rolls: Soft Sweet Delight Recipe

These vegan ube rolls are wonderfully soft, fluffy, and tender, making each bite melt in your mouth. The rich purple yam flavor brings a unique sweetness that stands out from traditional cinnamon rolls. A creamy vegan frosting adds the perfect finishing touch without overpowering the delicate ube taste. They’re also a great make-ahead option for gatherings, holidays, or relaxed weekend baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough
vegan dairy-free milk, warmed
dehydrated ube powder or mashed ube
ube extract
instant yeast
all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
salt
vegan butter

For the filling
ube halaya (purple yam jam)

For the frosting
vegan cream cheese
vanilla extract
ube halaya
powdered sugar

Directions

Prepare the dough by mixing the warm dairy-free milk with the dehydrated ube, allowing it to rehydrate fully. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the rehydrated ube, ube extract, and softened vegan butter, then knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let the dough rise until doubled in size.

Once risen, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the ube halaya evenly across the surface, then roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into equal portions and arrange them in a prepared baking dish. Cover and allow the rolls to rise again until slightly puffy.

Bake in a preheated oven until the rolls are cooked through and lightly golden. While the rolls cool slightly, mix the vegan cream cheese, vanilla extract, ube halaya, and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 9 rolls.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes.
First rise takes around 1 hour.
Second rise takes 30 to 40 minutes.
Bake time is 25 to 30 minutes.
Total time is roughly 2 to 3 hours, including rising.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted rolls for up to one month. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them in a low oven until heated through.

FAQs

How do I make sure the dough rises properly?

Use fresh yeast and make sure the dairy-free milk is warm but not hot. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot.

Can I substitute ube halaya?

If ube halaya is unavailable, cooked and mashed purple yam can be used, though the flavor may be slightly less sweet.

What if I don’t have ube extract?

The rolls will still taste great, but the purple color may be lighter without the extract.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, just dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk before adding it to the dough.

Can these rolls be made gluten-free?

This recipe is designed for wheat flour. Gluten-free flour blends may work but will change the texture.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar and add a small splash of dairy-free milk to balance the flavor.

Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, after shaping the rolls, you can refrigerate them overnight and bake the next day.

What type of vegan cream cheese works best?

A firm, block-style vegan cream cheese provides the best texture for frosting.

Can I add extra flavors?

Coconut, vanilla, or a touch of citrus zest pairs beautifully with ube.

Are these rolls good for special occasions?

Absolutely. Their striking color and soft texture make them perfect for celebrations and brunch tables.

Conclusion

These vegan ube rolls are a beautiful and delicious twist on classic sweet rolls. With their soft texture, rich purple yam filling, and creamy frosting, they’re a standout treat for any occasion. Whether shared with guests or enjoyed at home, they’re sure to become a favorite.