RED VELVET CINNAMON ROLLS

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Introduction

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence that combines the rich, chocolatey flavor of red velvet with the gooey, spiced goodness of classic cinnamon rolls. Each bite is a perfect harmony of soft, pillowy dough, swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into the warm rolls. These rolls aren’t just a breakfast treat—they’re a show-stopping dessert or celebratory brunch centerpiece that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

I still remember the first time I made these for a holiday brunch, and they stole the spotlight. The vibrant red color makes them festive, while the cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of tang to balance the sweetness. Baking these fills the kitchen with the cozy aroma of cinnamon and vanilla, instantly setting the mood for something special.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary. They’re soft, sweet, and utterly decadent—especially when served warm with an extra drizzle of frosting. Whether for a holiday, birthday, or lazy weekend morning, these rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s equal parts beautiful and delicious, Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the ones to bake!

Perfect for:

  • Valentine’s Day dessert
  • Holiday snacks
  • Dessert lovers
  • Celebratory treats
  • Weekend baking projects

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Decadent Flavor: Combines rich red velvet cake with the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls.
  • Visually Stunning: The vibrant red dough makes them stand out on any table.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds the perfect tangy sweetness to balance the flavors.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the dough in advance for easy baking the next day.
  • Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack.
  • Soft and Fluffy Texture: Perfectly tender dough that melts in your mouth.
  • Holiday-Ready: The bold red color makes them a festive choice for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or birthdays.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making them great for gatherings.
  • Customizable Fillings: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a hint of espresso for extra flavor.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze for a quick, indulgent treat anytime.

Preparation and Baking Time

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rise time)
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Servings: 12 rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 320-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates: 45g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon red food coloring gel
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Filling:

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

Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, egg, cocoa powder, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir in the yeast mixture.
  3. Add Flour and Knead: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and spreadable.

Assemble the Rolls:

  1. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  2. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar filling over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
  3. Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 12 equal slices.
  4. Arrange in Pan: Place the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake the Rolls:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Frosting:

  1. Mix Ingredients: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and creamy.
  2. Frost the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls before serving.

How to Serve

  • Warm and Gooey: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
  • With Extra Drizzle: Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added decadence.
  • Paired with Coffee: Perfect with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
  • Holiday Presentation: Garnish with red and white sprinkles for festive flair.

Additional Tips

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.
  • Avoid Overbaking: Check the rolls early to prevent them from drying out.
  • Extra Filling: Add chocolate chips or chopped pecans for more texture.
  • Double the Frosting: For extra indulgence, make 1.5x the frosting recipe.

Recipe Variations

  1. Chocolate Lover’s Rolls: Add chocolate chips to the filling for extra richness.
  2. Peppermint Red Velvet Rolls: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies into the frosting for a holiday twist.
  3. Nutty Rolls: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for added crunch.
  4. Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
  5. Mini Rolls: Make bite-sized versions for parties and events.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing, then thaw and bake fresh when needed. Alternatively, freeze baked rolls without frosting and add it after reheating.
  • Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.

Special Equipment

  1. Stand Mixer with Dough Hook – For kneading the dough effortlessly.
  2. Large Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients and proofing the dough.
  3. Rolling Pin – To roll out the dough evenly.
  4. Bench Scraper – Helps to cut and handle sticky dough.
  5. Pastry Brush – For applying melted butter or egg wash.
  6. Offset Spatula – For spreading fillings and frosting smoothly.
  7. 9×13-Inch Baking Dish – To bake the rolls in a snug, fluffy arrangement.
  8. Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper – For easy rolling and non-stick handling.
  9. Instant-Read Thermometer – To check milk temperature for yeast activation.
  10. Wire Cooling Rack – To cool the rolls evenly before frosting.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise until doubled before baking the next morning.
  2. What if I don’t have red food coloring?
    You can skip the food coloring, but the rolls will lack the signature red velvet appearance. Alternatively, you can use natural coloring options, such as beet juice or powdered beetroot, for a more natural red hue.
  3. Can I freeze these rolls?
    Yes! Both baked and unbaked rolls can be frozen. For unbaked rolls, arrange them in a baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw and let them rise before baking. For baked rolls, wrap them individually and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  4. How do I prevent the dough from being too dry?
    Avoid adding too much flour during mixing or kneading. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until the desired texture is reached.
  5. What frosting alternatives can I use?
    If you’re looking for a different finish, try a vanilla glaze, cream cheese icing with a hint of lemon, or even a chocolate ganache for added richness.
  6. How do I keep leftovers fresh? Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Warm them slightly before serving to restore softness.
  7. Can I make these rolls gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Keep in mind that the dough may need slight adjustments in moisture levels.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence, combining the rich, velvety flavor of classic red velvet with the warm, spiced sweetness of cinnamon. Each bite offers a soft, pillowy texture swirled with buttery cinnamon filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth.

What sets these rolls apart is their elegance and versatility—perfect for special occasions, holiday brunches, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary. Their vibrant color and irresistible aroma make them as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Whether served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed as a next-day treat, Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls promise to deliver pure comfort and joy in every bite. I can’t wait for you to experience this decadent recipe! Be sure to share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you make them your own. Enjoy this sweet celebration of flavor!

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