The rich aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through my kitchen, a promise of something special. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of whipping up Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls—a delightful twist on two beloved classics. Soft, fluffy, and drizzled with tangy cream cheese frosting, these rolls are not only a feast for the eyes but a treat for the taste buds. What I adore most about this recipe is how easy it is to make, allowing even the most inexperienced bakers to impress their friends and family. Plus, they shine on brunch tables or as festive treats during holiday gatherings! So, are you ready to discover how to create these mouthwatering masterpieces that will have everyone asking for seconds?
Why will you love this recipe?
Ease of Preparation: This Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls recipe is designed for everyone, even those who are new to baking. Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of rich cocoa and sweet cinnamon creates a truly irresistible experience. Festive Touch: Their stunning red color makes them perfect for any celebration or special occasion. Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or extracts for unique twists to delight your guests. Treat yourself to these soft, fluffy rolls, and consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence or serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a bright contrast. You won’t want to miss this delightful twist on classic comfort food!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the rolls; substitute with gluten-free flour mix for a gluten-free version.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness; essential for all baked goods.
• Active dry yeast – Leavens the dough for a light, airy texture; ensure your yeast is fresh, and instant yeast can also be used.
• Milk – Hydrates the dough and activates the yeast; opt for plant-based milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor; can be substituted with vegetable oil for a non-dairy version.
• Large egg – Binds the dough and enhances moisture; replace with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
• Vanilla extract – Provides depth of flavor; swap with almond extract for a different profile.
• Red food coloring – Gives the rolls their signature red hue; omit for more traditional cinnamon rolls.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a subtle chocolate flavor; essential for that red velvet experience.
For the Filling
• Brown sugar – Contributes moisture and deeper sweetness; light or dark brown sugar works interchangeably.
• Ground cinnamon – The primary spice for flavoring the filling; consider adding ground cloves for extra warmth.
• Ground nutmeg – Complements the cinnamon; optional but enhances the aromatic quality.
For the Frosting
• Cream cheese – Base for the creamy frosting and must be softened for mixing; use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thicken the frosting; can be reduced for a less sweet option.
• Milk (for frosting) – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting; add more for a thinner texture.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast. Make sure to mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients. This foundational step ensures your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls have the perfect structure.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, gently whisk together 1 cup of warm milk (110-115°F), ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon red food coloring, and 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. The warmth from the milk will activate the yeast; ensure the mixture is well-blended and smooth, creating a rich, colorful base for the dough.
Step 3: Combine and Form Dough
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky. Once combined, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and start kneading, which will develop the gluten and create that wonderful fluffiness for your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 4: Knead for Elasticity
Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back after gently pressing it with your finger. If the dough sticks to your hands, add a sprinkle of flour as needed.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size, about 1–1.5 hours. This key step ensures your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls will be light and airy.
Step 6: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, make the filling. In a bowl, mix together ¼ cup softened unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Blend until smooth—this mixture will create a delightful swirl within your rolls.
Step 7: Shape the Rolls
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Evenly spread the filling mixture over the surface to ensure each bite of the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bursts with flavor.
Step 8: Roll and Cut
Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces, creating beautiful rolls that will bake into fluffy treats.
Step 9: Second Rise
Arrange the cut rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each. Cover them loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until they puff up. This second rise is crucial for achieving that pillowy texture in your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 10: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent overbaking, ensuring they remain soft and delightful.
Step 11: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup softened butter until the mixture is fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and a splash of milk, adjusting until your desired creamy consistency is achieved.
Step 12: Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Generously frost the warm Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with the cream cheese mixture, allowing it to melt slightly into the rolls. Serve immediately, indulging in this festive treat!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Temperature Matters: Ensure your milk is between 110-115°F to properly activate the yeast. Too hot can kill it, leading to dense rolls!
• Knead Gently: Kneading too aggressively can make the dough tough. Aim for 6-8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic for those perfectly fluffy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
• Avoid Overbaking: Watch your rolls closely in the oven. Overbaking will dry them out; they should be golden brown and soft.
• Perfect Cuts: Use dental floss to slice the rolls without squishing them. This technique ensures clean cuts, keeping the swirls intact!
• Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts, flavored extracts, or a chocolate drizzle to elevate your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls even more!
What to Serve with Decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Imagine the delightful warmth of freshly baked rolls melding with the comforting flavors of your favorite sides—make your brunch unforgettable!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes creates a cozy meal while the textures complement the soft cinnamon rolls beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of juicy, vibrant fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls, balancing flavors perfectly.
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Savory Breakfast Casserole: A dish bursting with eggs, cheese, and veggies pairs excellently, adding savory notes to your indulgent brunch spread.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful twist, serve warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, resulting in an amazing hot-and-cold experience.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of chai enhance the cinnamon flavors, creating warmth and richness to your beverage selection.
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Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Elevate your rolls by drizzling rich chocolate ganache on top, introducing an extra layer of sweetness that chocolate lovers adore.
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Maple-Glazed Bacon: The crispy, salty goodness of bacon with its hint of sweetness complements the flavors of the rolls beautifully, enhancing the breakfast experience.
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Hazelnut Coffee: Pair your rolls with a cup of smooth hazelnut coffee; its nutty flavor will beautifully contrast with the sweetness of the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls! Each variation adds a unique twist that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch. The nuttiness beautifully complements the soft texture of the rolls, creating a satisfying contrast.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with warm chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat. The richness of chocolate elevates these rolls to a new level of decadence that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Extract Exploration: Swap out vanilla for almond or coconut extract to infuse your rolls with a new flavor profile. These subtle flavor shifts can give your rolls a unique twist that reinvents the classic recipe.
- Frosting Fun: Use a mix of cream cheese frosting and a bright fruit glaze for a zesty finish. The tang of the fruit glaze brightens up the rich rolls, adding a refreshing balance to each bite.
- Festive Sprinkles: Top with colorful sprinkles before serving for a fun, celebratory look. Perfect for parties or special occasions, these sprinkles add an eye-catching touch that makes dessert even more exciting.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. These earthy spices enhance the overall warmth and depth of the rolls, making them perfect for cooler days.
- Sweet Cocoa Twist: Increase the amount of cocoa powder in the filling for a deeper chocolate flavor. This adjustment brings the richness to the forefront, making every bite even more chocolatey.
- Chili Heat: For those who like a little kick, sprinkle in a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling. The heat contrasts with the sweetness of the rolls, creating a fun and surprising flavor combination.
Whether you’re enjoying these with a cozy cup of coffee or alongside a scoop of ice cream, each variation is sure to bring smiles around the table. And if you’re looking for more delicious inspiration, try making Pie Cinnamon Rolls or a delicious serving of Pink Velvet Cheesecake!
Storage Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls uncovered for a few hours to maintain their freshness. After that, keep them wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 day.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain soft and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, restoring their softness and deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch even on your busiest mornings! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe through Step 5, then store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to bake the rolls, let them rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding to Step 9. For extra convenience, you can also freeze the cut rolls before the second rise, allowing them to sit in the fridge overnight to thaw; then rise and bake. Rest assured, they’ll be just as delicious and fluffy!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What should I look for in ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, make sure your all-purpose flour is fresh and not clumpy; it should feel light to the touch. For the milk, choose one that’s not expired and ideally around 110°F to activate your yeast effectively. If you’re using eggs, look for ones with unbroken shells and a sell-by date that’s still good. If you’re including red food coloring, go for a high-quality brand to achieve that stunning color!
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Very simple! Store your leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. If you want them to stay fresh longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying to recapture that soft, fluffy texture!
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap your unfrosted cinnamon rolls tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, which keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm treat, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
What if my yeast doesn’t activate?
If your yeast doesn’t activate, don’t worry! First, ensure the milk was at the right temperature (110-115°F). If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, it might not activate at all. If your yeast is too old, it might not rise properly, so check the expiration date! If you find it inactive, you can simply start again with fresh yeast.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, you can easily modify this recipe. Use gluten-free flour for those avoiding gluten, and substitute unsweetened applesauce for eggs for a vegan option. For dairy-free versions, coconut milk and vegan cream cheese work perfectly. Always double-check ingredients on labels for hidden allergens!
How can I make my rolls less sweet if I want?
I often do this! If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the powdered sugar in your cream cheese frosting by half and taste as you go. You can also limit the granulated sugar in the dough slightly; just remember to keep some sweetness for that delicious balance with the cinnamon filling. You can also add a pinch more salt to enhance other flavors!
Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls for a Cozy Brunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast.
- In a separate bowl, gently whisk together 1 cup of warm milk, ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon red food coloring, and 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise until doubled in size, about 1–1.5 hours.
- Mix together ¼ cup softened unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg until smooth.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the filling mixture over the surface evenly.
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the cut rolls in a greased baking dish, cover loosely, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup softened butter until fluffy.
- Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and a splash of milk, adjusting to desired consistency.
- Once the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly and frosted with the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve immediately, enjoying these festive Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!