The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Vibrant Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the deep, earthy notes of cocoa with the comforting warmth of spicy cinnamon spirals. These treats offer a soft, pillowy texture and a striking crimson color that instantly brightens any brunch table. My plant-based version prioritizes natural ingredients and sustainable baking practices to ensure every bite feels both indulgent and ethical.
You will adore the balance between the tangy frosting and the sweet, aromatic dough. These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls transform a classic morning pastry into a stunning culinary celebration. Let us dive into this colorful fusion of flavors and textures together.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant colors meet a decadent cocoa-infused dough for a unique sensory experience.
- This recipe uses simple plant-based swaps that make it lighter and more eco-friendly.
- The soft, gooey center provides ultimate comfort without any artificial additives or dyes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the most spectacular Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, you must focus on the quality of your raw materials. Choosing organic and locally sourced ingredients reduces your carbon footprint while enhancing the final flavor of your pastry. I recommend using a high-protein bread flour to achieve that signature chewiness we all crave in a cinnamon roll.
For the iconic color, we will skip synthetic dyes and use a concentrated beet powder or a reduction of fresh beet juice, which adds a subtle depth of flavor. This approach aligns with our goal of creative, health-conscious baking.
- All-Purpose or Bread Flour: Provides the structural foundation for your fluffy rolls.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Gives the dough its classic red velvet flavor profile and dark undertones.
- Active Dry Yeast: The magic element that makes your dough rise and breathe.
- Plant-Based Milk: Use oat or soy milk for a creamy texture and sustainable sourcing.
- Coconut Sugar: A lower-glycemic alternative that offers a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- Vegan Butter: Ensures a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth crumb for the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
- Beet Powder or Juice: Our secret natural coloring agent for that stunning crimson hue.
- Ground Cinnamon: The essential spice that defines the interior spiral.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure bean extract elevates the aromatic complexity of the dough.
- Vegan Cream Cheese: The base for a tangy, indulgent frosting that cuts through the sweetness.
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
You can easily adapt these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls to suit your dietary needs or pantry availability. For a gluten-free version, use a high-quality 1:1 baking blend containing xanthan gum to maintain the elasticity of the dough. If you prefer a refined-sugar-free treat, replace the coconut sugar with monk fruit sweetener or date paste in the filling.
To increase the fiber content, swap a portion of the white flour for whole-wheat pastry flour. These adjustments ensure your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls remain accessible and nutritious for everyone at the table.
If you’re looking for a delectable treat to complement your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, try making some Chocolate Covered Strawberries. Their rich chocolate paired with the sweet rolls will elevate your dessert experience.
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right tools simplifies the process of making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls and ensures consistent results every time. You do not need professional-grade machinery, but a few basics make the journey much more enjoyable. I always advocate for durable, long-lasting kitchenware to minimize waste. Ensure your workspace is clean and organized before you begin, as baking is a precise art that benefits from a calm environment.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your dry and wet ingredients comfortably.
- Whisk and Silicone Spatula: Perfect for blending the yeast and scraping the sides of the bowl.
- Rolling Pin: Necessary to achieve an even thickness for your dough sheet.
- Rectangular Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch ceramic or glass dish works best for even heat distribution.
- Kitchen Scale: Using weight measurements ensures the most accurate results for your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
- Floss or Sharp Knife: Unflavored dental floss allows you to cut the rolls without squishing the delicate layers.
- Small Saucepan: To gently warm the plant-based milk and melt the vegan butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: Warm your plant-based milk to approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir in a tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for ten minutes until a thick foam forms on the surface.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In your large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, beet powder, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the cocoa is well-distributed to avoid clumps in your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
- Combine and Knead: Pour the yeast mixture and melted vegan butter into the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for eight minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about ninety minutes or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix coconut sugar and plenty of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Soften your vegan butter so it is easy to spread.
- Roll and Shape: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
- Cut the Spirals: Roll the dough tightly into a log. Use dental floss to slice the log into twelve even pieces. This technique keeps your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls perfectly round.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in your baking dish. Cover them and let them rise again for forty-five minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls for 25 to 30 minutes. The tops should feel firm, but the centers should remain soft.
- Frost and Serve: Whisk the vegan cream cheese with a splash of maple syrup and vanilla. Spread this generous frosting over the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls while they are still slightly warm so it melts into the crevices.
As you mix your dry ingredients for the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, consider enhancing your dessert repertoire with our Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars. They provide a delightful way to enjoy the iconic flavors of red velvet in another form.
Pro Tips for Success
To master the art of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, pay close attention to the temperature of your ingredients. If the milk is too hot, it will kill the yeast; if it is too cold, the dough will not rise. Always use room-temperature vegan butter for the filling to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
For a more intense color without the beet taste, use a high-quality food-grade gel, though natural beet reduction remains my favorite eco-friendly choice. If your kitchen is cold, turn on the oven for a minute, turn it off, and place the dough inside to rise. Patience is the most important ingredient when making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, so do not rush the proofing stages.
Storage & Reheating Tips
You can keep your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls fresh for up to three days at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. If you want to prolong their life, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For long-term storage, wrap individual Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in parchment paper and freeze them in a reusable silicone bag for up to two months.
When you are ready to enjoy one, reheat it in the microwave for twenty seconds or in a warm oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes. Adding a small splash of water to the oven helps steam the rolls, restoring their original pillowy softness.
To maximize the shelf life of your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, check out how to properly store them and also discover our Red Velvet Dessert Lasagna for an impressive dessert alternative that your guests will love.
What to Serve With This Recipe
While these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a star on their own, pairing them with healthy sides creates a balanced and vibrant brunch. I love serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad seasoned with mint and lime to cut through the richness. A side of roasted balsamic glazed carrots or a savory kale salad provides a wonderful nutritional contrast.
These pairings ensure you get a boost of vitamins and minerals alongside your sweet treat. You can also serve these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with a hot cup of herbal tea or a homemade oat milk latte for the ultimate cozy experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these rolls overnight?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls the evening before. After shaping the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about an hour to finish their second rise before baking. This method actually develops a deeper flavor in the dough.
What is the best natural way to get a bright red color?
The most effective natural method for coloring Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls involves using concentrated beet juice or hibiscus powder. If you use beet juice, reduce it on the stove until it becomes a thick syrup to avoid adding too much liquid to the dough. This provides a beautiful earthy red hue that looks stunning once baked.
Why are my cinnamon rolls dry or tough?
Tough Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls usually result from over-kneading the dough or adding too much flour. When kneading, stop as soon as the dough feels smooth and slightly tacky. Additionally, ensure you do not overbake them; the rolls should be just set and lightly golden on the edges while remaining soft in the middle.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a colorful and flavorful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, incorporating cocoa powder and often beet juice for their signature hue. This unique pastry is popular for its soft texture and can be served as a dessert or sweet breakfast option, making it a versatile choice for any occasion; learn more about this delightful treat in the cinnamon roll article.
Final Thoughts
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls represent the heart of my kitchen: colorful, compassionate, and incredibly delicious. Sharing these vibrant spirals with loved ones creates memories that last. I hope this recipe brings a splash of joy to your home while respecting our beautiful planet.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
The following data provides a general estimate for one serving of these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls based on standard plant-based ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Vibrant Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the deep, earthy notes of cocoa with the comforting warmth of spicy cinnamon spirals. These treats offer a soft, pillowy texture and a striking crimson color that instantly brightens any brunch table. This plant-based version prioritizes natural ingredients and sustainable baking practices to ensure every bite feels both indulgent and ethical.
Ingredients
Method
- Warm your plant-based milk to approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir in a tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for ten minutes until a thick foam forms on the surface.
- In your large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, beet powder, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the cocoa is well-distributed.
- Pour the yeast mixture and melted vegan butter into the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for eight minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise in a warm spot for about ninety minutes or until it doubles in size.
- While the dough rises, mix coconut sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Soften your vegan butter.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and use dental floss to slice into twelve pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in your baking dish. Cover them and let them rise for forty-five minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Whisk vegan cream cheese with maple syrup and vanilla. Spread frosting over the rolls while they are warm.
Notes
Ensure the milk is warm, not hot; if your kitchen is cold, place the dough inside the oven after preheating for a minute. Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
