Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Discover the rich flavor and irresistible charm of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, the perfect combination of soft, sweet dough swirled with classic cinnamon sugar and vibrant red velvet goodness. These rolls bring a delightful twist to a beloved breakfast treat, blending the creamy tang of cream cheese frosting with the warmth of cinnamon in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just because, Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are sure to become a new favorite that everyone will crave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Fusion: Combines the luscious cocoa notes and slight tanginess of red velvet with classic cinnamon rolls for an unforgettable taste.
• Soft, Pillowy Texture: Each roll is perfectly tender and fluffy, providing the ideal base for the cinnamon-sugar swirl and rich frosting.
• Eye-Catching Appearance: Their vibrant red hue makes these rolls extra festive and perfect for holidays or special breakfasts.
• Easy to Customize: Start with the base recipe and add nuts, chocolate chips, or different frostings to match your preferences.
• Cream Cheese Frosting Finish: The smooth, tangy icing balances the sweetness and elevates every bite to pure indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create the signature soft texture, the vibrant color, and that perfect cinnamon sweetness in Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for soft, fluffy dough that holds its shape while remaining tender.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the yeast activate properly for light rolls.
• Active Dry Yeast: Essential for that perfect rise and pillowy texture.
• Buttermilk: Brings moisture and slight tang that highlight the red velvet flavor.
• Cocoa Powder: Provides the subtle chocolate depth characteristic of red velvet.
• Cinnamon: The warming spice that’s swirled inside every roll for that classic cinnamon roll taste.
• Butter: Used in the dough and filling, adds richness and tenderness.
• Eggs: Help bind the dough and add richness.
• Red Food Coloring: Gives the rolls their iconic vibrant red color without affecting flavor.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, smooth and tangy for that indulgent glaze.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting without graininess for a velvety finish.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds aromatic warmth to the frosting and dough.

Variations for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Feel free to get creative with your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls by adjusting ingredients or adding your favorite extras. This recipe is incredibly versatile and adapts well to different tastes or dietary needs.

• Nutty Upgrade: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for extra crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside the roll for bursts of melty chocolate.
• Vegan Version: Swap butter and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg to keep rolls soft.
• Spiced Twist: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cloves with the cinnamon for deeper warmth.
• Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace vanilla with maple extract and add a drizzle of real maple syrup for a sweet, earthy glaze.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Warm your buttermilk and butter to a temperature between 100-110°F, then mix with yeast and sugar until bubbly and activated. In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, salt, eggs, red food coloring, and the yeast mixture to form a smooth, elastic dough. Knead for 8-10 minutes, then let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. This sweet and spicy blend will be generously spread over the rolled dough.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Evenly spread the cinnamon butter over the dough, making sure to reach all edges for consistent flavor. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge to create a swirl effect.

Step 4: Slice and Proof

Cut the rolled dough into even slices about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Place them snugly in a greased baking dish and cover with a clean towel. Let them rise again until puffy and nearly doubled, about 30-45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overbake to maintain their moist texture.

Step 6: Prepare and Spread the Frosting

While the rolls bake, whip together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a touch of milk until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting generously over warm rolls for that classic melty finish.

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Proper Yeast Activation: Ensure your liquid temperature is just right to activate yeast without killing it.
• Don’t Overflour: Add just enough flour to keep dough manageable; too much flour can make rolls dense.
• Even Rolling: Roll the dough into an even rectangle to get uniform layers and swirls.
• Second Rise Is Key: The second proofing helps develop that fluffy, soft texture in each roll.
• Frost Warm Rolls: Apply cream cheese frosting immediately after baking for gooey, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

For an extra touch, sprinkle additional cinnamon or finely chopped nuts on top of the frosting or dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation that tastes wonderful.

Side Dishes

Serve with fresh fruit like berries, a hot cup of coffee, or a creamy latte to balance the sweetness and add a fresh contrast to the rich rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange rolls in a circular pattern and drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for festive occasions, or serve individually with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days to preserve freshness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls on a baking tray before the second rise, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and let rise before baking, or freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to refresh their softness and melt the frosting slightly for that just-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls without food coloring?

Yes, you can skip the red food coloring if you prefer a natural version, but the rolls will look less vibrant and won’t have the signature red velvet hue.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk, letting it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight, then let it warm and rise again before rolling and baking.

Are these rolls suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, fully baked rolls freeze well. Just wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn and thaw them gently before reheating.

How long will Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls stay fresh?

They are best eaten within 2-3 days when stored properly but can be extended by freezing as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are an absolute joy to make and eat, bringing a fun, colorful twist to a classic favorite. Their soft texture, decadent cream cheese frosting, and delightful cinnamon swirl promise to brighten any morning or occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly they disappear—you might just find your new favorite sweet treat!

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