Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining rich flavors and a beautiful appearance. Perfect for brunches, holidays, or any special occasion, these rolls feature a soft, fluffy texture and are topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Each bite is a heavenly experience that guests will love!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dough
• For the Filling
• For the Frosting
• How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Step 1: Prepare the Dough
• Step 2: Knead and Rise
• Step 3: Prepare the Filling
• Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
• Step 5: Second Rise and Bake
• Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 7: Frost & Serve
• How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• For Breakfast
• For Dessert
• At Gatherings
• For Special Occasions
• How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
• How do I know when my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are done?
• What can I add to my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
• Why is my dough not rising?
• Can I use different frosting on my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of red velvet combined with the comforting flavor of cinnamon.
• Versatile Treat: These rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a festive treat during the holidays.
• Decadent Frosting: The creamy cream cheese frosting adds sweetness and tang to balance the flavors beautifully.
• Easy to Make: With clear instructions and simple ingredients, these cinnamon rolls are approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Impressive Presentation: Their vibrant color and swirled design make these rolls an eye-catching addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having everything ready will make the preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients effectively without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the dough and mix dry ingredients thoroughly.
• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out your dough for perfect cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic cinnamon roll with the rich flavor of red velvet and a luscious cream cheese frosting.

For the Dough

• 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

For the Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Frosting

• 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

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture into the dry ingredients. Gradually add the remaining flour to form a soft dough.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. On a floured surface, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Place dough in an oiled bowl; cover it and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once risen, roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
2. Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips if desired.
3. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise and Bake

1. Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them again and let rise for another 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing in vanilla extract and milk until reaching desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost & Serve

Once baked and slightly cooled, generously spread cream cheese frosting over each roll. Enjoy these soft, fluffy, and decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a special occasion, or simply indulging yourself, these rolls are sure to impress.

For Breakfast

• Serve warm alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors.

For Dessert

• Top with extra cream cheese frosting and sprinkle some chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream for a delicious warm and cold contrast.

At Gatherings

• Present them on a decorative platter to make an inviting centerpiece.
• Offer them as part of a brunch spread along with other sweet treats.

For Special Occasions

• Add festive sprinkles on top of the frosting for celebrations like birthdays or holidays.
• Create mini versions of these rolls for easy serving at parties.

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How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it is active for proper rising.
• Don’t skip the rise time: Giving the dough enough time to rise makes your rolls fluffy and soft.
• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough well develops gluten, which contributes to the texture of the rolls.
• Adjust flour as needed: If your dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour until you achieve the right consistency.
• Cool before frosting: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before applying cream cheese frosting to prevent it from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

While these cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt and granola provide a creamy crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft rolls.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Savory eggs balance the sweetness of the rolls and make for a hearty breakfast.
4. Bacon or Sausage Links: The salty flavor of cured meats pairs well with sweet cinnamon rolls.
5. Hash Browns: Crispy potatoes offer texture and serve as a satisfying side dish.
6. Coffee Cake: For those who love sweets, coffee cake makes an excellent companion during brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making red velvet cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make the rolls tough. Mix until just combined and knead gently.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the Rising Time: Failing to let the dough rise properly leads to dense rolls. Be patient; allow enough time for the dough to double in size.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients lead to poor dough formation. Ensure your milk and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Overbaking dries out your cinnamon rolls. Keep an eye on them in the oven and bake until golden brown.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover red velvet cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last for up to 3 days.

Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Freeze unbaked rolls or baked ones in an airtight container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each roll for about 15-20 seconds. Add a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling, then refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh in the morning.

How do I know when my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

What can I add to my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

You could add nuts, chocolate chips, or even cream cheese filling for extra flavor and texture.

Why is my dough not rising?

Ensure your yeast is active. If it’s expired or if your ingredients were too cold, it may not rise properly.

Can I use different frosting on my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting is traditional, but you could try vanilla or chocolate ganache as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can customize them with various fillings or toppings based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe for a delightful treat!