Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re a fan of both cinnamon rolls and the vibrant color of red velvet cake, then this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the perfect treat for you. Combining the soft, pillowy texture of traditional cinnamon rolls with the rich, decadent flavor of red velvet cake, these rolls are an indulgent breakfast or dessert that everyone will love. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this deliciously sweet and visually stunning recipe.

Why Choose Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. While cinnamon rolls are beloved for their warm, gooey filling and comforting texture, the addition of red velvet brings a layer of decadence that takes them to the next level. The deep red hue makes them perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or any time you want to treat yourself to something extra special.

The best part? These cinnamon rolls are easy to make and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with a rich cream cheese frosting that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping brunch item or a sweet treat for a gathering, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls will surely steal the show.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To make these mouth-watering Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

this recipe

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough begins to form, then knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Shape the Cinnamon Rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long edge. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 even pieces. Place the slices into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they’ve puffed up and nearly doubled in size.

6. Bake the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a roll; it should come out clean.

7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a tablespoon of milk. Continue to mix until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Add more milk as necessary.

8. Frost the Rolls

Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. The frosting will melt into the rolls, making them even more irresistible.

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Use quality ingredients: Since this recipe combines the rich flavor of red velvet with cinnamon rolls, high-quality butter, vanilla extract, and food coloring will make a difference in both flavor and appearance.
• Don’t skip the resting times: Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures that the rolls will be soft and fluffy. Be patient and let them rise fully before baking.
• Storage: If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze them (before frosting) for up to 3 months. Simply reheat before serving and add the frosting once warmed.

Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Visually Stunning: The rich red hue of these rolls will instantly catch the eye, making them perfect for special occasions and brunch gatherings.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and the subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet creates a mouth-watering treat that’s perfect for any sweet tooth.
• Soft and Fluffy: The dough is pillowy soft, making each bite melt in your mouth, complemented by the gooey cinnamon filling.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy and creamy frosting adds the perfect finishing touch to these rolls.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a showstopper that combines the best of two classic desserts. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply indulging in a delicious treat, these rolls will surely become a family favorite. The soft dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting make each bite a memorable experience. Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and colors in one irresistible cinnamon roll!

Serving and Storage Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Tips

• Warm and Fresh: For the best experience, serve these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls fresh and warm right out of the oven. The cream cheese frosting will melt into the rolls, creating an irresistible, gooey texture.
• Pair with Drinks: These rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, latte, or hot chocolate. For a special touch, try serving them with a glass of cold milk for a comforting, indulgent treat.
• Serve for Special Occasions: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, Easter, or birthdays. Their vibrant red color makes them a festive addition to any table.
• Make It a Breakfast Feast: These rolls can also be served as part of a brunch spread, alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a savory breakfast dish.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature Storage: If you have any leftover cinnamon rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They’ll stay fresh and soft for the next couple of days, though the frosting may begin to lose its creamy texture.
• Reheating: To enjoy your leftovers, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. The rolls will become soft and warm again, making them just as delightful as when they were first baked.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked rolls (before frosting). After shaping the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, then let them rise for 30-60 minutes before baking as usual. You can also freeze the baked rolls (without frosting) and reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Freezing Frosting: If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Simply rewhip the frosting before using.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls for longer, making them a treat that’s just as delicious the next day (or the next week) as when they were first baked!

1. Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and even assemble the rolls a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe until the second rise, then cover the rolls and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This helps save time and ensures fresh, warm rolls for breakfast or a gathering.

2. Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting? While you can use store-bought cream cheese frosting in a pinch, homemade frosting adds a richer flavor and smooth texture that complements the soft red velvet rolls perfectly. We recommend making the frosting from scratch for the best taste.

3. What can I use instead of food coloring for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls? If you prefer to avoid food coloring, you can substitute with natural alternatives such as beet juice or powder, which will provide a red hue. However, the color might not be as vibrant as with traditional food coloring.

4. How do I store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls? Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked rolls (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving. Frost the rolls after reheating for the best results.

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