Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending the rich taste of red velvet with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or just a cozy afternoon treat, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at your table. With their vibrant color and indulgent flavor, they stand out as both a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of red velvet and cream cheese frosting creates a luxurious taste experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family breakfast, these rolls fit right in.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious treats.
- Customizable Options: Add mini chocolate chips or nuts for an extra touch of flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: These vibrant rolls not only taste great but also look stunning on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough.
- Baking dish: A 9×13-inch pan is perfect for baking and presents beautifully.
Ingredients
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic cinnamon roll with the rich flavor of red velvet and a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Dough Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2–4 tbsp milk (for frosting)
How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture into the dry ingredients. Gradually add remaining flour until you form a soft dough.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
On a floured surface, knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover it and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar and ground cinnamon to create your filling.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it. If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces.
Step 5: Second Rise
Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
While rolls are baking, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Frost
Once baked and slightly cooled, generously spread cream cheese frosting over the tops of your warm Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. Enjoy these soft, fluffy delights!
How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
These delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy morning at home, there are plenty of ways to serve and enjoy these treats.
With a Side of Fresh Fruit
- Sliced strawberries or bananas add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls.
Drizzled with Extra Cream Cheese Frosting
- For those who can’t get enough, a drizzle of extra frosting on top elevates the indulgence factor.
Accompanied by Hot Coffee or Tea
- Pair these rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for the ultimate morning experience.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream can add an airy texture and make each bite even more delightful.
Served Warm
- Enjoying the rolls warm enhances their softness and makes the frosting melt just right.
How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
To ensure your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly, consider these handy tips:
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Use fresh yeast: Ensure your yeast is active for that fluffy texture. If it doesn’t bubble when mixed with warm milk, it’s time to replace it.
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Knead well: Kneading the dough until smooth and elastic is crucial for achieving that soft bite. Don’t rush this step!
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Correct rising time: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size. This helps create light and airy rolls.
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Roll tightly: When rolling up your dough, do so tightly to avoid gaps and ensure even baking throughout each roll.
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Cool before frosting: Let the rolls cool slightly before adding cream cheese frosting to prevent it from melting entirely into the rolls.
Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Pairing side dishes with your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious sides that complement these sweet treats:
- Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory element that balances out the sweetness of the rolls.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and create a hearty breakfast experience.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, this dish offers freshness and creaminess alongside your cinnamon rolls.
- Breakfast Sausages: Savory sausage links provide a perfect contrast to the sweet cinnamon rolls.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and balance to your brunch table.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with soft, sweet rolls.
- Smoothie Bowl: A berry smoothie bowl topped with nuts adds nutrients while maintaining a light feel.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread offers healthy fats that complement the richness of cinnamon rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
- Skipping the proofing step: Allowing the dough to rise is vital for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; give it at least an hour.
- Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can result in tough rolls. Knead just until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Using cold ingredients: Warm milk and softened butter help create a tender dough. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature.
- Not letting the rolls cool before frosting: Spreading frosting on hot rolls can cause it to melt away. Let them cool for about 10 minutes first.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds on high power.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Can I use different food coloring?
Absolutely! You can use gel or liquid food coloring, but make sure it’s red for that classic look.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel light and airy. You can gently poke it; if the indentation stays, it’s ready.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and filling, then refrigerate overnight before rolling and baking in the morning.
What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?
You can leave them out entirely, or substitute with nuts or dried fruit for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Their soft texture combined with rich cream cheese frosting makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your rolls by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting the frosting sweetness. Try this recipe, and enjoy a delightful twist on a classic treat!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible delight of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, a stunning twist on a classic favorite. These fluffy rolls combine the rich flavors of red velvet with the comforting warmth of cinnamon, all generously topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for brunches, special occasions, or simply a cozy afternoon treat, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at your table. Their vibrant red hue and decadent taste make them not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight.
Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2–4 tbsp milk (for frosting)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, egg, food coloring, and vanilla; combine with dry ingredients.
- Gradually add remaining flour to form a soft dough; knead until smooth.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Prepare the filling by mixing softened butter with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll out risen dough, spread filling evenly, roll tightly, and slice into 12 pieces.
- Let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes before baking at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
- Make cream cheese frosting and generously spread it over warm rolls.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (80g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
