Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic treat, perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant crimson color and rich flavor, they make an impressive addition to holiday tables or weekend brunches. Topped with a creamy frosting, these rolls are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious.

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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 the Dough
• Step 3: Make the Filling
• Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
• Step 5: Shape the Rolls
• Step 6: Bake
• Step 7: Make Frosting
• Step 8: Frost & Serve
• How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Classic Serving
• With Fresh Berries
• Ice Cream Delight
• Coffee Companion
• Breakfast Platter
• 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 use different food coloring?
• How do I make cream cheese frosting less sweet?
• Are these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls suitable for special diets?
• How can I customize my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The combination of red velvet and cinnamon creates a rich and indulgent taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas morning or a casual Sunday, these rolls impress every time.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can bake these tasty treats.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your rolls with mini chocolate chips or extra frosting for a personal touch.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is perfectly soft, making each bite melt in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking dish: A greased 9×13-inch dish ensures even baking and easy serving.

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
• 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
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tbsp milk

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Gradually add the 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 it becomes smooth and elastic. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a small bowl, combine softened butter with brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth to create your filling.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 12×18 inches. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it evenly. If using mini chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top now.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Slice it into 12 equal pieces. Place these rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them again and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown on top.

Step 7: Make Frosting

While the rolls bake, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk until you reach desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost & Serve

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

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve the rolls warm with a generous spread of cream cheese frosting on top for that classic touch.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair these rolls with fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.

Ice Cream Delight

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The cold ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls.

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy these rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or latte. The rich flavors of coffee enhance the sweet notes of red velvet.

Breakfast Platter

• Create a breakfast platter by adding scrambled eggs and bacon. This combination makes for a hearty morning meal.

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How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the best red velvet cinnamon rolls, follow these expert tips for optimal results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check your yeast’s expiration date and use fresh flour for the best rise and flavor.

• Knead properly: Ensure you knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving that soft texture.

• Allow enough rising time: Letting the dough rise until it has doubled in size ensures light and fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step!

• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking; they should be golden brown but not overbaked to retain moisture.

• Frost when warm: Spread the cream cheese frosting while the rolls are still warm for better melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your red velvet cinnamon rolls can elevate your meal experience. Here are some tasty ideas.

1. Fried Eggs: Scrambled or fried eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast to the sweet, rich flavors of red velvet.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and helps cut through the richness.

4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a deliciously creamy side dish.

5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns bring a satisfying crunch to your breakfast plate.

6. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a nutritious option alongside the sweet rolls.

7. Tea Selection: A variety of herbal teas can provide a soothing beverage choice after enjoying your sweet treat.

8. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer an interesting flavor profile when paired with red velvet cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can be exciting, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your rolls turn out perfectly.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for the best results.
• Ignoring the dough’s texture: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, a splash of milk can help.
• Skipping the first rise: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; give it at least an hour.
• Overfilling the rolls: While it’s tempting to add more filling, too much can make rolling challenging and may cause spills while baking.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps achieve that perfect golden brown finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 15-20 seconds until warm. Add frosting after heating for best results.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a pan over low heat with a lid on. Heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use different food coloring?

Yes! You can experiment with natural or gel food coloring for different shades or even skip it altogether if you prefer a traditional cinnamon roll look.

How do I make cream cheese frosting less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, add more cream cheese or use less powdered sugar. A pinch of salt can also balance out the sweetness.

Are these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls suitable for special diets?

You can adapt this recipe by using gluten-free flour or dairy-free substitutes. Just ensure that other ingredients align with dietary needs.

How can I customize my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Add nuts or swap chocolate chips for raisins. You could also try different flavored frostings like chocolate or vanilla for variety.

Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them perfect for any occasion, from cozy breakfasts to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite fillings or toppings to make them truly yours!