Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. With their rich red hue, they add a splash of color to any gathering, making them perfect for holidays, brunches, or just a sweet treat at home. The combination of soft dough, warm spices, and creamy frosting creates an irresistible flavor that will impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The blend of red velvet and cinnamon gives these rolls a taste unlike any other.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, they are great for family gatherings or parties.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward for bakers of all levels, ensuring success every time.
• Versatile Options: You can add mini chocolate chips or keep them simple; the choice is yours!
• Decadent Frosting: The cream cheese frosting elevates these rolls to a whole new level of indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (for frosting)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps in achieving an even thickness when rolling out the dough.
• Baking dish: Provides the perfect size and shape for your cinnamon rolls to rise and bake evenly.
• Electric mixer: Makes whipping up the cream cheese frosting quick and easy.

Ingredients

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic cinnamon roll with the rich flavor of red velvet and a luscious cream cheese frosting.

For the Dough

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp red food coloring
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tbsp milk

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture into the dry ingredients.
3. Gradually add remaining flour until you form a soft dough.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. On a floured surface, knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
2. Place it in an oiled bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 4: Roll Out Dough

1. Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 12×18 inches.
2. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
3. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips if using.
4. Roll tightly into a log shape and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise and Bake

1. Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them again to rise for another 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Make Frosting

1. While rolls are baking, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 7: Finish Up

Once baked and slightly cooled, generously spread cream cheese frosting over your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls before serving. Enjoy these soft, fluffy treats!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few creative serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to enjoy these sweet treats even more.

With a Cup of Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the rolls, enhancing the overall experience.

Drizzled with Extra Cream Cheese Frosting

• For those who love cream cheese frosting, a drizzle over each roll adds extra sweetness and a decadent touch.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness and create a beautiful presentation.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream on top gives an airy texture that complements the richness of the rolls.

Served Warm with Ice Cream

• Enjoying these cinnamon rolls warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a comforting dessert experience.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include them in your brunch lineup alongside other pastries, fruits, and savory items for an impressive spread.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the best results when making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your baking skills.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensuring that your yeast is fresh will help the dough rise properly and create fluffy rolls.
• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to develop gluten, which gives structure to the rolls.
• Control Dough Temperature: The dough should be warm but not hot during rising. Too much heat can kill the yeast.
• Allow for Proper Rising: Letting the dough rise until it doubles in size is crucial for achieving soft, airy cinnamon rolls.
• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize your filling! Add nuts or other flavored chips for added texture and taste.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allowing the rolls to cool slightly before frosting prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can create a delightful meal or snack option. Here are some great ideas:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein that complements the sweet rolls beautifully.
3. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast that works well with sweet dishes.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that adds texture and flavor.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can introduce savory notes that enhance your breakfast or brunch experience.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can round out your meal while providing nutrients.
7. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add crunch and heartiness that balance out the softness of the cinnamon rolls.
8. Herbed Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with sweet breakfast items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect yeast activation: If your yeast isn’t activated properly, your rolls won’t rise. Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, when adding the yeast.
• Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture without overdoing it.
• Skipping the second rise: Don’t skip the second rise after shaping the rolls. This helps achieve that fluffy texture we all love.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
• Using cold butter for filling: Cold butter won’t mix well into the cinnamon-sugar filling. Always use softened butter for an even spread.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• item They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• item Allow the rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• item Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• item Frozen Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• item Microwave: Heat individual rolls in 15-second intervals until warm; be careful not to overheat, as they may become tough.
• item Stovetop: Place a roll on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to the second rise and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning!

What can I use instead of red food coloring?

You can substitute with beet juice or natural food coloring if you prefer a more natural option.

How do I store leftover cream cheese frosting?

Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I add nuts to my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add great flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not only visually stunning but also delightfully delicious with their soft texture and rich flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat, you can customize them with various fillings or toppings like nuts or additional chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret indulging in these decadent rolls!