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The smell of cinnamon rolls baking in my kitchen brought back happy memories. These treats were a big part of our weekend family gatherings. Now, I’m thrilled to share a recipe for homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls, without using a cake mix.
Making these red velvet cinnamon rolls from scratch lets you pick the ingredients. This way, you get a taste that’s truly homemade. The dough is soft and fluffy, thanks to cocoa powder and beet juice. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, decadent touch to each bite.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe for red velvet cinnamon rolls without cake mix creates a from-scratch dough with essential ingredients like cocoa powder and beet juice.
- The result is a fluffy, gooey, and flaky pastry with a sweet cream cheese frosting.
- Easy to make with step-by-step instructions for the dough, filling, and assembly.
- Customizable with gluten-free and vegan options available.
- Perfect for special occasions or a weekend indulgence.
Introduction: The Ultimate Homemade Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Why Make Them From Scratch?
Making red velvet cinnamon rolls from scratch has many perks. You control the ingredients for a fresh, quality result. You can also customize, like using beet juice for color instead of artificial dyes.
The kneading and proofing process makes the dough light and fluffy. This is harder to achieve with a cake mix.
Over 1,700 people have given a cinnamon rolls recipe five stars. Another recipe got such great feedback that someone wanted to give it 10 stars. Making red velvet cinnamon rolls from scratch means you get a delicious, customized treat.
There’s also a recipe that uses pumpkin puree for a unique taste. Another variation adds pecans, maple syrup, and icing to refrigerated dough. Homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls are very versatile.
The benefits of homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls make the effort worthwhile. You can adjust the recipe to your taste, use quality ingredients, and feel proud of making something delicious from scratch.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Without Cake Mix
To make delicious homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls, you’ll need a few key ingredients. You’ll need flour, yeast, sugar, eggs, butter, and cocoa powder for the dough. The red velvet flavor and color come from beet juice or natural red food coloring and a bit of apple cider vinegar.
For the cream cheese frosting, you’ll need cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. These ingredients come together to make the perfect red velvet cinnamon rolls, without a cake mix.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose Flour | 3 cups |
| Active Dry Yeast | 2 1/4 teaspoons |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Large Eggs | 2 |
| Unsalted Butter, softened | 1/2 cup |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | 1/4 cup |
| Beet Juice or Red Food Coloring | 2 tablespoons |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Cream Cheese, softened | 8 ounces |
| Unsalted Butter, softened | 1/2 cup |
| Powdered Sugar | 3 cups |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
With these red velvet cinnamon roll ingredients, you’re all set to make a perfect batch. Get the what you need to make homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls ready. Then, indulge in the ultimate essential ingredients for red velvet cinnamon rolls from scratch.
Equipment Needed for Baking Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
To make delicious homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls, you need some special tools. The ingredients are simple, but the right tools make a big difference. They help you get the best results.
Essential Tools for Perfect Rolls
A stand mixer with a dough hook is key for kneading the dough. It makes the dough smooth and even. This is crucial for perfect rolls.
A rolling pin is also essential. It helps roll out the dough thinly and evenly. This makes it easy to spread the cinnamon-sugar filling and roll the dough into spirals.
For cutting the rolls, use a serrated knife or dental floss. These tools cut the dough without squishing it. This keeps the rolls’ shape intact.
You’ll also need a baking dish or pan for the rolls. A hand mixer is useful for making the cream cheese frosting. This frosting is the final touch to these tasty treats.
With these tools, you’re ready to make amazing red velvet cinnamon rolls at home. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Dough
Making the perfect red velvet cinnamon roll dough is key to delicious results. Follow these steps to make the dough from scratch:
- Proof the yeast by mixing it with warm milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly and activated.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and beet juice or red food coloring until well combined. This gives the dough its signature red velvet hue.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients – 3 cups (411 g) of all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and sugar – to the wet mixture, mixing until a slightly sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for several minutes using a stand mixer or by hand. This helps develop the gluten for a soft, fluffy texture.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 2 hours until doubled in size.
With these steps, you’ll have perfectly soft and red velvet-infused cinnamon roll dough. It’s ready to be filled, shaped, and baked to perfection.
“The key to making the best red velvet cinnamon rolls is in the dough. Developing the gluten through kneading creates an incredibly soft and fluffy texture that’s essential for these decadent rolls.”
Proofing the Red Velvet Cinnamon Roll Dough
After mixing the dough for your homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls, proofing comes next. This step lets yeast work and gluten develop, making the dough soft and fluffy. To proof the dough well, here are some tips:
Tips for Optimal Dough Rising
- Make a warm, draft-free spot. You can use the oven’s “bread proofing” setting or wrap the bowl in a towel near Christmas lights.
- Let the dough proof for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This shows it’s ready for the next steps.
- Don’t let the dough over-proof. It can become too airy and hard to handle. Watch it closely during proofing.
- If your kitchen is cool, try placing a bowl of hot water in the oven with the dough. It helps keep the environment warm and humid.
By following these tips for how to proof red velvet cinnamon roll dough and getting the perfect rise for red velvet cinnamon rolls, your dough will be ready for baking.
“Proofing the dough is a critical step in achieving the perfect texture for homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls. With the right techniques, you can create a soft, fluffy base for your delicious baked treats.”
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Milk | 2 cups (475 ml) |
| Butter | 1/2 cup (115 grams) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup (50 grams) |
| All-Purpose Flour | 5 cups (650 grams) |
By following these tips for proofing red velvet cinnamon roll dough, you’ll get the perfect rise and texture for your homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls. With the right approach, you can make bakery-quality treats at home.
Preparing the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
While your dough is proofing, it’s time to make the cinnamon-sugar filling. This filling will turn your homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls into a treat. It’s what makes the rolls gooey and cinnamon-flavored.
To make the cinnamon-sugar filling for red velvet cinnamon rolls, you need a few ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (115 grams) of softened butter
- 3/4 cup (160 grams) of dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons (15 grams) of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Blend these ingredients with a fork until you get a thick paste. The butter and brown sugar make it gooey. The cinnamon and vanilla add a spiced flavor to your red velvet cinnamon roll filling.
“The cinnamon-sugar filling is the heart and soul of a perfect red velvet cinnamon roll. It’s what takes these rolls from delicious to downright addictive!”
Now that your filling is ready, you’re closer to making those soft, cinnamon-sugar-filled red velvet cinnamon rolls you’ve dreamed of. Get ready for the next step in baking!
Assembling the red velvet cinnamon rolls without cake mix
After your dough has risen, it’s time to shape and assemble your cinnamon rolls. This is your chance to show off your baking skills. You can make those swirls look amazing.
Shaping Techniques for Perfect Swirls
First, dust your work surface with flour. Roll out the dough into a big rectangle, about 18×10 inches. Spread softened butter all over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon until smooth. Sprinkle this mix over the buttered dough, avoiding the borders.
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the dough into 1-inch wide strips.
- Roll each strip tightly from one end to the other, making a swirl.
- For a special touch, shape the rolls into hearts before placing them in the baking pan.
By following these steps, you’ll get those perfect red velvet cinnamon roll swirls. Your friends and family will be amazed.
Baking the Homemade Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
After shaping your dough, it’s time for the final rise before baking. This step is key for fluffy rolls. Preheat your oven to 350°F while the dough rises.
Once risen, drizzle heavy cream over the rolls. This helps them rise more and get a golden crust.
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes. They should be golden brown around the edges and soft in the middle. Watch them closely to avoid over-browning.
| Baking Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls |
|---|
|
Follow these tips for perfectly baked red velvet cinnamon rolls. After a 10-minute cool-down, they’re ready for frosting and serving.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
No homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls are complete without a rich cream cheese frosting. Start by mixing softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Then, add powdered sugar and a bit of vanilla extract for the perfect taste.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
The right cream cheese frosting is thick but still spreadable. It should melt well over warm cinnamon rolls. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure cream cheese and unsalted butter are at room temperature.
- Beat them together on high speed until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar slowly, beating well after each addition.
- If it’s too thick, add a little heavy cream or milk.
- Finish with a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
With a smooth and spreadable cream cheese frosting, your red velvet cinnamon rolls will be a hit. They’ll taste like they came from a bakery.
Frosting and Serving the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
When the homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, spread warm cream cheese frosting over them. This makes the frosting melt and drip down, creating a gooey treat. Serve the rolls warm for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, with a cold glass of milk.
To frost the red velvet cinnamon rolls, start with the cream cheese frosting. Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy. Spread it over the warm rolls, letting it drip down for a pretty look.
For serving, these homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls go great with hot coffee or cold milk. Add a light dusting of powdered sugar or some chopped nuts for extra flair. Enjoy them while warm, with the frosting melting in every bite.
| Serving Suggestion | Flavor Pairing | Garnish Options |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast or Brunch | Hot coffee or cold milk | Powdered sugar |
| Dessert | Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream | Chopped pecans or walnuts |
Follow these tips for how to frost red velvet cinnamon rolls and serving suggestions to make your homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls extra special. Enjoy the soft, fluffy rolls and the sweet cream cheese frosting. It’s a perfect mix of flavors.
Substitutions and Variations
For those with dietary restrictions, there are several ways to modify this delectable red velvet cinnamon roll recipe. Whether you’re seeking a gluten-free or vegan option, you can still enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors of these homemade treats.
Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
To make the red velvet cinnamon rolls gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Be sure to also add an extra teaspoon of baking powder to the dough. This helps it rise and achieve the perfect texture.
Vegan Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
For a plant-based version, substitute the dairy-based ingredients with their vegan counterparts. Use dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and lactose-free cream cheese in place of the traditional ingredients. The end result may have a slightly different texture, but the rich, red velvet flavor will still shine through.
No matter your dietary needs, these red velvet cinnamon roll substitutions and variations will allow you to enjoy this indulgent treat without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls are a decadent treat. They’re worth the effort of making them from scratch. By making the dough, filling, and frosting yourself, you get the best ingredients and can customize it.
These rolls are perfect for any occasion or just because. They’re rich, gooey, and fluffy. They’ll quickly become a favorite in your family.
The Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe has a 4.7 out of 5 star rating from 333 reviews. It serves 12 people, great for a crowd or leftovers. It uses just 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of unsweetened natural cocoa powder for its deep color and flavor.
Enjoy the homemade goodness of these red velvet cinnamon rolls. They offer tender dough, a burst of cinnamon-sugar filling, and luxurious cream cheese frosting. Making them from scratch is rewarding. Share the experience with your loved ones.