Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, perfect for any special occasion. Their vibrant red color and rich cinnamon filling make them an eye-catching treat, while the creamy cream cheese icing adds a touch of indulgence. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or a simple weekend brunch, these rolls will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures that make these rolls stand out!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Red Velvet Dough
• Cinnamon Filling
• Cream Cheese Icing
• How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Step 1: Prepare the Dough
• Step 2: Mix Ingredients
• Step 3: Knead the Dough
• Step 4: Allow Dough to Rise
• Step 5: Make Cinnamon Filling
• Step 6: Roll Out Dough
• Step 7: Shape Rolls
• Step 8: Prepare for Baking
• Step 9: Bake Rolls
• Step 10: Make Cream Cheese Icing
• Step 11: Ice Rolls
• How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• With a Side of Fresh Fruit
• Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
• Topped with Whipped Cream
• As a Dessert Option
• 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 use instead of cream cheese icing?
• Can I customize my red velvet cinnamon rolls?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Fluffy: These rolls are super soft and fluffy, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Eye-Catching Color: The striking red hue not only looks festive but also adds fun to your dessert table.
• Deliciously Sweet: The rich cinnamon filling combined with cream cheese icing creates a perfect balance of sweetness.
• Easy to Follow: With clear instructions, even novice bakers can create these delightful rolls.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings; everyone will love sharing and enjoying this unique treat!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these delicious red velvet cinnamon rolls, gather the essential tools that will make your baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender (or your fingers)
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Casserole pan (9×14-inch or 9×13-inch)
• Hand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps knead the dough efficiently, saving you time and effort.
• Rolling pin: A must-have for rolling out the dough evenly to ensure consistent thickness for your rolls.
• Casserole pan: The right size pan ensures that your rolls bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Ingredients

These super soft and fluffy red velvet cinnamon rolls are filled with a rich cinnamon filling and topped with creamy cream cheese icing. Perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or Christmas!

Red Velvet Dough

• 1 cup milk, warmed to 110°F
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 full packet)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon red gel food dye (e.g., Americolor Super Red)
• 4 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup white granulated sugar
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

Cinnamon Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup heavy cream

Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Warm the milk in the microwave until it reaches 110°F (warm but not hot).
2. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
4. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry blender (or your fingers) to blend until pea-sized.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

1. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, add the milk/yeast mixture, lightly beaten eggs, and red food dye to the dry ingredients.
2. Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Increase to medium speed and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Ensure it has a bright red color.

Step 4: Allow Dough to Rise

1. Preheat the oven to 200°F and then turn it off.
2. Spray a large bowl with nonstick spray; shape the dough into a ball and place it in the bowl.
3. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in the warm oven for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Make Cinnamon Filling

1. In a small bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a smooth paste.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

1. Roll the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
2. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.

Step 7: Shape Rolls

1. Roll the dough tightly from one short side to form a log.
2. Trim any uneven ends; cut into 12 equal rolls using unflavored dental floss or a serrated knife.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

1. Spray your casserole pan with nonstick spray.
2. Arrange the rolls in the pan; cover with a towel and let rise for about 20 minutes.

Step 9: Bake Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Pour heavy cream around the rolls in their pan before baking.
3. Bake for about 25-27 minutes until tops are lightly golden or center reaches 160°F.

Step 10: Make Cream Cheese Icing

1. While baking, beat cream cheese and butter on high speed using a hand mixer until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar; mix on low until fully incorporated then mix in vanilla and milk until spreadable.

Step 11: Ice Rolls

Spread icing over warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven for an extra gooey finish!

Enjoy making these delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls! They are sure to become a favorite at any gathering!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy breakfast, these rolls can be served with delightful accompaniments and beverages.

With a Side of Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Strawberries and raspberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas provide a creamy texture that pairs well with the soft rolls.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the flavors and adds warmth.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea complement the cinnamon filling beautifully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Whipped cream adds an airy touch that makes each bite even more indulgent.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract for an extra flavor boost.

As a Dessert Option

• Ice Cream: Vanilla or cream cheese ice cream drizzled on top makes for an amazing dessert.
• Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce will satisfy any sweet tooth craving.

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How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Making perfect red velvet cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough rise better and creates a fluffier texture.
• Knead Properly: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic; this ensures the right texture.
• Don’t Skip the Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly develops flavor and texture.
• Check for Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the center of the rolls reaches 160°F for optimal results.
• Spread Icing While Warm: This allows it to melt into the rolls, creating an irresistible gooey finish.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with red velvet cinnamon rolls can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that work well together.

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your brunch spread.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy contrast to the sweet rolls.
3. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein balance alongside the sweet flavors.
4. Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns make for a hearty side that complements the softness of the rolls.
5. Sausage Links – Savory sausage contrasts nicely with sweet cinnamon rolls, creating a satisfying meal.
6. Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds is both nutritious and visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results with your red velvet cinnamon rolls. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring temperature: Ensure all your ingredients, especially milk and eggs, are at room temperature for better mixing and rise.
• Skipping the proofing step: Don’t rush the rising process. Allow the dough enough time to double in size for soft and fluffy rolls.
• Overfilling with cinnamon mix: Be careful not to spread too much filling; it can ooze out during baking and make a mess.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method or a kitchen scale. Too much flour can lead to dry rolls.
• Baking too long: Keep an eye on your rolls in the oven. Overbaking can dry them out, while underbaking leaves them doughy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store red velvet cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If they are iced, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one roll on a plate and microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add a splash of milk, cover, and steam rolls for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about red velvet cinnamon rolls:

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling, then refrigerate overnight. Let it rise before baking.

How do I know when my red velvet cinnamon rolls are done?

The rolls should be lightly golden on top, and an instant-read thermometer should read 160°F at the center.

What can I use instead of cream cheese icing?

You can use vanilla glaze or simply dust powdered sugar on top for a lighter option.

Can I customize my red velvet cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Add chocolate chips or nuts into the filling or experiment with different flavors of icing.

Final Thoughts

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Perfect for special occasions or just because, they offer a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or toppings for an even more personalized treat!