5 Best Chicken Broth Substitutes for Cinnamon Rolls

Quick tip: Maintains moisture and adds subtle savory notes without overpowering the sweet dough.

Vegetable broth works well because it mimics the savory and salty components of chicken broth, which helps activate yeast and enhances dough flavor through umami compounds. The liquid content ensures proper hydration for gluten development, critical for soft, fluffy rolls.

To ensure success, use a low-sodium vegetable broth to avoid excessive saltiness that can inhibit yeast activity. Warm the broth slightly to match the recipe’s temperature requirements for optimal yeast activation.

Compared to chicken broth, vegetable broth results in a slightly different but still balanced flavor profile that complements the sweetness of cinnamon rolls without introducing animal flavors.

Quick tip: Adds a mild earthy umami flavor that can enhance dough complexity without overwhelming sweetness.

Mushroom broth contains natural glutamates that provide umami, similar to chicken broth, supporting yeast fermentation and dough flavor. Its water content hydrates the flour for proper gluten network formation.

Use a clear, mild mushroom broth to avoid overly strong flavors. Warm it to the appropriate temperature to maintain yeast viability.

The final rolls may have a subtle earthy undertone, which can add depth but might slightly shift the traditional cinnamon roll flavor.

Quick tip: Provides moisture with a hint of herbal aroma, but lacks umami and saltiness.

Herb-infused water hydrates the dough similarly to broth but lacks the savory compounds that enhance yeast activity and dough flavor. Herbs like thyme or rosemary add subtle aromatic notes that can complement the cinnamon.

To optimize, steep fresh herbs in hot water and cool before use. Add a pinch of salt separately to compensate for the missing sodium.

The resulting rolls may be slightly less flavorful and less tender than those made with broth but still acceptable with enhanced herbal notes.

Quick tip: Imparts umami and saltiness but can introduce a slight soy flavor that may alter traditional taste.

Diluted light soy sauce provides glutamates and sodium, mimicking the savory and salty profile of chicken broth, which supports yeast fermentation and dough flavor enhancement.

Use low-sodium soy sauce to prevent over-salting and dilute properly to avoid overpowering the dough. Test small batches first to gauge flavor impact.

The final product may have a subtle soy undertone, which can be noticeable but generally does not clash with the cinnamon sweetness if used sparingly.

Quick tip: Rich in flavor and nutrients but may add a heavier taste and denser texture.

Bone broth contains gelatin and minerals that can enrich dough texture and flavor, providing umami and moisture similar to chicken broth. The gelatin can improve dough elasticity and moisture retention.

Use a mild-flavored bone broth to avoid overpowering the cinnamon rolls. Warm to the correct temperature for yeast activation.

The rolls may be richer and slightly denser, with a more complex savory background that could contrast with the sweet filling.