Name: Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 28 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 35 g (4 ½ Tablespoons) white bread flour; 170 g (⅔ cup + 2 teaspoons) water; 190 g (¾ cup + 2 teaspoons) unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy recommended), cold; 30 g (2 Tablespoons) dark or light brown sugar; 65 g (3 Tablespoons) black treacle or molasses; 10 g (1 ½ teaspoons) table salt; 420 g (3 ½ cups) white bread flour; 85 g (1 cup) rolled oats; 10 g (1 Tablespoon) instant/fast action yeast; 45 g (3 Tablespoons) vegan block butter, softened; Non-dairy milk for brushing; Rolled oats for sprinkling

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 7 reviews

If you’re craving a warm, tender bread with a rich, deep-flavored twist, these Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe are going to be your new favorite comfort food. Soft oat-studded rolls sweetened with the luscious molasses and black treacle give them a beautiful caramelized color and a slightly smoky depth, while the vegan butter makes the crumb irresistibly silky. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a cozy dinner side, these homemade rolls are a delightful way to enjoy plant-based baking at its finest.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear round glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a single thick round layer of light brown dough that has risen and almost fills the bowl. The dough’s surface is smooth with some small bubbles, showing it is soft and stretched. The bowl's rim is clear and shiny, with a small spout visible on one side. The scene is bright with even light, highlighting the dough texture clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From nourishing oats to the rich molasses, every element is simple but essential for that classic soft yet chewy crumb and golden hue.

White bread flour: Provides structure and a soft, elastic dough that’s perfect for fluffy rolls.

Water: Hydrates the flour and creates the base for the tangzhong that adds incredible softness.
Unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy preferred): Keeps the dough dairy-free while adding richness and tenderness.
Dark or light brown sugar: Sweetens gently and enhances caramelization during baking.

Black treacle or molasses: Brings deep, smoky notes and beautiful dark coloring to the rolls.
Table salt: Balances the sweetness and strengthens the gluten network.
Rolled oats: Give a lovely rustic texture and wholesome flavor throughout the bread.

Instant/fast action yeast: Ensures a reliable rise and light crumb structure.
Vegan block butter (softened): Adds silkiness and richness, making the crumb tender and moist.
Milk for brushing: Creates a beautiful golden crust and helps the oats stick on top.

Oats for sprinkling: Adds a rustic, inviting finish on the tops of the rolls.

How to Make Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong

The magic begins with the tangzhong – a Japanese technique that involves cooking a portion of flour and water into a thick paste. This step might seem unusual, but it’s crucial for creating those soft, fluffy rolls that stay fresh for days. Whisk the flour into water gently over a low heat until you get a pudding-like consistency. Then cool it down with the cold non-dairy milk to protect the yeast from heat damage.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Combine the cooled tangzhong with sugar, molasses, salt, bread flour, oats, and yeast in your mixer bowl. The dough will come together somewhat shaggy at first, which is perfectly normal. This mix of ingredients is where the rich flavor and texture start to build, with the molasses adding that signature warmth and the oats a lovely chew.

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Kneading is key to dough development here. Initially, the dough feels quite sticky, but resist dusting it with extra flour. Kneading (either by mixer or by hand) for 5 to 10 minutes transforms the dough into a smooth, elastic ball as the gluten forms. Incorporate the softened vegan butter after a few minutes of kneading and keep working it until it’s fully blended and the dough regains its silkiness.

Step 4: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This ambient rising allows the yeast to produce those lovely bubbles and lightness that make the rolls so soft and airy. It generally takes around 2 hours depending on your environment.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

After the first rise, gently deflate the dough and divide it into 15 equal portions, weighing them if you want perfection. Shape each piece into a tight little ball by folding the edges underneath to create surface tension, which encourages a smooth, shiny roll surface once baked.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking tin spaced slightly apart. Cover loosely with oiled clingfilm and let them rise again until puffy—about an hour. You can check readiness by gently pressing the dough; it should spring back slowly but still hold a small indentation.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the tops of the risen rolls with non-dairy milk and sprinkle extra oats on top for that rustic, inviting look. Pop them in a preheated oven at 180°C/350°F and bake for around 28-30 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and an internal temperature reaches 90°C (194°F). Let them cool slightly before enjoying.

How to Serve Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe

A single round brown bread roll sits on a white plate with a soft tear on one side showing its light, fluffy texture inside. The top of the roll is sprinkled with small, pale oat flakes adding a rough contrast to the smooth, shiny crust. In the background, a loaf of similar brown bread with oat flakes on top is visible inside a white baking tray, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These rolls are stunning just as they are with a brush of plant-based butter or a slather of your favorite jam. You can also get creative with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory finish. The molasses flavor pairs beautifully with bold herb butters or tangy fruit spreads.

Side Dishes

Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe make a lovely accompaniment to hearty soups and stews—think warming lentil stew or a smoky chili. They’re fantastic alongside fresh salads or roasted vegetables too, perfect when you want something soft and comforting to balance crisp or spicy elements.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the rolls horizontally and filling them with savory ingredients like vegan cheese, smoked tofu, or a chickpea salad for a quick sandwich. For a fun brunch twist, serve warm rolls with a bowl of cinnamon-spiced vegan butter or a creamy nut-based spread. They make fabulous slider buns for small gatherings too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to three days. Their soft texture holds up remarkably well thanks to the tangzhong method, but try to keep them away from air exposure to prevent drying.

Freezing

Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe freeze beautifully. Once cooled completely, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months. When you want fresh bread vibes, just thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked softness, heat the rolls in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel for a quick, cozy snack, but the oven method helps keep the crust pleasantly chewy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

White bread flour is ideal for the texture and rise in this recipe, but you could try all-purpose flour if needed. Keep in mind that whole wheat or gluten-free flours might change the dough’s elasticity and final softness, so adjustments may be necessary.

Is black treacle the same as molasses?

Black treacle and molasses are very similar, with black treacle having a slightly more intense, almost smoky flavor compared to light molasses. Both work wonderfully in this recipe, so choose based on your taste preference or availability.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

No mixer? No problem! You can knead the dough by hand on a clean surface. It takes a bit more effort but gives you great control over the dough’s texture as it develops. Use a dough scraper to help manage any stickiness.

Can I substitute the vegan butter?

Yes, you can use any plant-based butter or even coconut oil for a different but delicious flavor profile. Just make sure the butter is softened for easy incorporation during kneading.

Alternative non-dairy milks?

Soy milk is recommended for its protein content and neutral flavor, but oat, almond, or cashew milk can all be used. Avoid sweetened versions to keep the sugar balance on point.

Final Thoughts

Making these Oatmeal Molasses Rolls (Vegan) Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience—you get to enjoy bread that’s not only deliciously soft and flavored with rich molasses but also completely plant-based. Perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with your favorite meal, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to try it out and fill your kitchen with the aroma of freshly baked goodness!