If you are searching for a delightfully sweet treat that’s completely plant-based, you’ll adore these Vegan Honey Buns. Soft, fluffy, and beautifully twisted, they are a perfect balance of tender dough with a luscious cinnamon-sweet filling, all topped with a glossy, homemade glaze. These buns capture the essence of traditional honey buns but entirely vegan, using agave nectar or store-bought vegan honey for sweetness. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, Vegan Honey Buns bring warmth and comfort with every bite, making them a true must-try recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Vegan Honey Buns lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role—whether it’s creating that soft, airy dough or the rich, sweet filling that makes every bite irresistible.

Non-Dairy Milk: Provides moisture and tenderness while keeping the recipe vegan and creamy.
Agave Nectar or Vegan Honey: The perfect natural sweetener that mimics honey’s sticky sweetness without animal products.
Instant Yeast: Essential for the dough to rise beautifully and become light and fluffy.
Melted Non-Dairy Butter: Adds richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough, supplying structure and chewiness.
Kosher Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Combines with cinnamon for a sweet, aromatic filling.
Ground Cinnamon: Brings cozy warmth and depth to the filling.
Powdered Sugar: For that vibrant, glossy glaze that brings it all together.

How to Make Vegan Honey Buns

Step 1: Make the Sweet Dough

First, warm your non-dairy milk until it’s just about room temperature, which creates the perfect environment for your yeast to bloom. Stir in the agave nectar and instant yeast, then allow it to rest for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and alive. This is when the magic of rising begins!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients and Knead

Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, add melted non-dairy butter, flour, and salt to form a shaggy dough. After giving it a brief rest, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and supple. If needed, sprinkle more flour to prevent stickiness but keep it soft enough for that tender bite.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 ½ to 2 hours in a warm spot. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size—this step is essential for creating those airy layers in your Vegan Honey Buns.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together softened non-dairy butter, sugar, ground cinnamon, and more agave nectar in a bowl. This sweet, buttery mixture is going to be spread on the dough to create that delectable swirl of flavor in each bun.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

Roll out your dough into a rectangle approximately 15 by 12 inches. Spread the filling evenly across the surface, then fold the dough in half lengthwise to create a 15 by 6-inch rectangle. Cut into 12 strips, twist each strip a few times, then tie into a knot by looping one end around your fingers and pulling it through the hole. Place each knotted bun on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them proof for 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 6: Make the Glaze and Bake

While the buns are proofing, whisk together powdered sugar and non-dairy milk until smooth and lump-free. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the buns for 28 to 32 minutes, turning them halfway to ensure even, golden tops. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack with the baking sheet underneath to catch drips.

Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy!

Spoon the glaze generously over the warm buns, watching it cascade over every twist and turn, creating that irresistible shiny coating. The moment you take your first bite, the soft dough combined with cinnamon-sweet filling and the creamy glaze will make you feel as if you’ve just discovered a little piece of vegan heaven.

How to Serve Vegan Honey Buns

Garnishes

Enhance your Vegan Honey Buns by adding a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch and a subtle nutty contrast to the sweet glaze. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of extra agave nectar can add an extra touch of flavor and beauty.

Side Dishes

These buns pair beautifully with a warm cup of plant-based milk latte or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness. They also make an excellent companion for a creamy vegan yogurt or a bowl of berries, perfect for brunch or an indulgent breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Vegan Honey Buns on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant platter for a welcoming look. For special occasions, serve them in individual cupcake liners or wrap each bun with a small ribbon, turning them into charming edible gifts. You can even sprinkle edible flowers around the tray for a whimsical, eye-catching display!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store Vegan Honey Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, so they taste just as wonderful the next day as when freshly baked.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the unglazed buns individually by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and re-glaze before serving for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Vegan Honey Buns in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This brings back their soft, gooey texture and makes the glaze delightfully melty again—just like freshly baked!

FAQs

Can I use regular honey instead of vegan honey or agave nectar?

Since this recipe is vegan, regular honey is not included to keep it plant-based. However, if you are not strictly vegan, you can substitute with honey, but it won’t be suitable for a vegan diet.

What is the best non-dairy milk for this recipe?

Unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk work perfectly. Choose one with a mild flavor so it doesn’t overpower the dough’s subtle richness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough, then refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before shaping the buns for best results.

Is agave nectar the only sweetener option?

Agave is ideal for its consistency and mild flavor, but you can also use maple syrup or a store-bought vegan honey alternative. Just avoid liquid sweeteners that are too thin.

How big should the buns be for even baking?

Cultivating 12 small to medium buns from the dough ensures they bake evenly. Overly large buns might need more time, while smaller ones could bake too quickly and dry out.

Final Thoughts

Making Vegan Honey Buns at home is pure joy—from the simplicity of the ingredients to the delight of pulling warm, fragrant buns out of the oven. This recipe gives you that authentic sweet, soft, and sticky experience with a compassionate twist. I can’t wait for you to try baking these and sharing them with loved ones. Trust me, they’ll become a favorite go-to treat in your recipe rotation, bringing comfort and smiles to any day.