Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Recipe By:

Jennifer

Posted:

January 29, 2025

This red velvet cinnamon rolls recipe is a delightful twist on two beloved treats. Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked rolls that not only look stunning but taste incredible. The vibrant red color, combined with the cozy flavors of cinnamon and the creamy icing, creates a breakfast experience that feels both special and indulgent. Let’s dive into this fun and tasty adventure!

Jump to:

Why This Recipe Works
Why You’ll Love This
Ingredients
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Red Velvet Dough Preparation
Cinnamon Filling Creation
Baking the Rolls
Cream Cheese Icing Preparation
Icing the Rolls
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
Storage Tips
FAQs
Conclusion
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Why This Recipe Works

This red velvet cinnamon rolls recipe combines the delightful flavors of red velvet cake with the comforting essence of cinnamon rolls. The use of active dry yeast ensures a light and fluffy texture, while the cream cheese icing adds a rich and tangy finish that perfectly complements the sweet, spiced filling.

Why You’ll Love This

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are not just visually stunning with their vibrant color; they are also incredibly soft and flavorful. Perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or Christmas, they are sure to impress friends and family alike, making them a cherished addition to any breakfast or brunch spread.

Ingredients

1 cup Milk, warmed to 110°F
2 ¼ teaspoons Active dry yeast (or 1 full packet)
2 Large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon Red gel food dye (recommended: 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, at room temperature
½ cup Unsalted butter, at room temperature (for filling)
¾ cup Brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon
⅓ cup Heavy cream
4 oz Cream cheese, at room temperature
4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, at room temperature (for icing)
1 cup Powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
2 tablespoons Milk

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Red Velvet Dough Preparation

First, let’s get started with the red velvet dough! In a small bowl, heat the milk in the microwave until it reaches 110°F. This is the perfect temperature for activating our yeast. Now, pour in the yeast and let it sit for 10 minutes until it’s foamy. This step is crucial. It shows that the yeast is alive and ready to make our rolls rise.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Then, add the cubed butter. Blend it until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This gives our rolls a buttery flavor. Next, gradually add the milk and yeast mixture, along with the beaten eggs and red food dye. Mix on low speed until a dough starts to form. After that, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes until your dough is bright red and smooth.

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise until doubled in size, which usually takes about 1 hour. This is the perfect time to get excited about the fluffy goodness that’s coming!

Cinnamon Filling Creation

Once the dough has risen, it’s time for the cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, beat together the room-temperature butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined. This filling is what gives the rolls their sweet and spicy flavor.

Now, roll out the risen dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. The goal is to spread the filling evenly over the dough. Once you’ve spread it out, tightly roll it up starting from the short side. Don’t worry if it gets a little messy; it’ll all be worth it in the end.

Next, cut the log into 12 even pieces. You can use unflavored dental floss or a serrated knife for this step. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×14 inch baking dish. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 20 minutes. This second rise is essential for that light and fluffy texture.

Baking the Rolls

While your rolls are getting cozy in the pan, preheat the oven to 375°F. Once the oven is hot, pour the heavy cream around the rolls in the pan. This extra step ensures that the rolls stay moist and delicious. Bake for 25-27 minutes until lightly golden and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. It’s hard to resist the smell wafting through your kitchen!

Cream Cheese Icing Preparation

While the rolls are baking, let’s whip up that creamy icing! In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter on high speed until smooth. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar. Mix on low speed until well combined. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract and milk until you achieve a spreadable consistency. This icing is rich and pairs beautifully with the rolls.

Icing the Rolls

As soon as the rolls are out of the oven, spread the cream cheese icing over the top while they’re still warm. This allows the icing to melt into all the cracks and crevices, making every bite a little piece of heaven!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these red velvet cinnamon rolls warm. They are perfect with a fresh cup of coffee or hot cocoa. You can also add seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing touch. The combination of sweet rolls and fresh fruit creates a delightful experience.

Tips for Success

Make sure your milk is at the correct temperature (110°F) for optimal yeast activation. This step is key for the rolls to rise properly.
Be gentle when cutting the rolls. This helps maintain their beautiful shape.
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before icing for the best texture. If you ice them while they’re too hot, the icing may melt away.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for extra sweetness. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the cream cheese icing with a simple vanilla glaze. For added crunch, consider incorporating nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftover cinnamon rolls (which is a big “if” because they are so delicious), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or oven before serving. This helps restore their original fluffy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls the night before. Just cover them and place them in the fridge. Bake them in the morning for fresh, warm rolls.

2. Can I freeze the red velvet cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls after cutting them. When you’re ready to bake, let them rise until doubled before popping them in the oven.

3. What can I use instead of red gel food dye?
You can use powdered food coloring or simply omit it altogether for a chocolate cinnamon roll version. The flavor will still be fantastic!

4. How do I know when the rolls are done?
The rolls are done when they are lightly golden and the internal temperature reads 160°F. You can use a kitchen thermometer to check this easily.

Conclusion

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are a delicious and visually stunning treat perfect for any occasion. With their soft texture, sweet cinnamon filling, and decadent cream cheese icing, they are sure to be a hit in any kitchen. Try making them today, and enjoy the delightful process of baking!

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