Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or Christmas. Their vibrant red color, rich cinnamon filling, and creamy cream cheese icing make them a standout treat that everyone will love. You can easily impress your guests with these soft and fluffy rolls, and they are sure to become a family favorite.

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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: Let It Rise
• Step 4: Make Cinnamon Filling
• Step 5: Roll Out Dough
• Step 6: Form Rolls
• Step 7: Final Rise & Bake
• Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Icing
• Step 9: Ice & Serve
• How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Drizzle with Extra Icing
• Pair with Fresh Berries
• Serve with Coffee or Tea
• Add Ice Cream
• Top with Whipped Cream
• Serve as a Breakfast Treat
• How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes red velvet cinnamon rolls different?
• Can I make red velvet cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
• How do I customize my red velvet cinnamon rolls?
• Are there gluten-free options for red velvet cinnamon rolls?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of red velvet and cinnamon creates a unique taste that’s both sweet and comforting.
• Perfect for Celebrations: These rolls are ideal for special occasions, adding a festive touch to any gathering.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these rolls without any fuss.
• Beautiful Presentation: Their eye-catching color makes them not just delicious but also visually appealing on any table.
• Gooey Cream Cheese Icing: The creamy icing melts into the warm rolls, enhancing their flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender (or fingers)
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan (9×14 inches or 9×13 inches)
• Hand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: Saves time and effort while kneading the dough to perfection.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Baking pan: Ensures uniform baking of the rolls for optimal results.

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

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How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the milk until it reaches 110°F. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add cubed butter and blend until pea-sized using a pastry blender or your fingers.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, add the milk/yeast mixture along with lightly beaten eggs and red food dye to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until combined. Then increase to medium speed and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Preheat your oven to 200°F before turning it off again. Spray a large bowl with nonstick spray; shape the dough into a ball and place it in the bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in the warm oven for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Make Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until you achieve a smooth paste.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over this rectangle.

Step 6: Form Rolls

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

Step 7: Final Rise & Bake

Spray your baking pan with nonstick spray before arranging the rolls inside. Cover with a towel again and let rise for another 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F; pour heavy cream around the rolls before baking them for about 25-27 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Icing

While baking, beat cream cheese and butter in another bowl until smooth using your hand mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar then mix in vanilla extract and milk until spreadable.

Step 9: Ice & Serve

Once out of the oven, quickly spread icing over warm rolls so it melts into them for that gooey finish. Enjoy your deliciously festive Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Drizzle with Extra Icing

• Cream Cheese Icing: Enhance the sweetness by adding a drizzle of the cream cheese icing over the top for that extra gooey goodness.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Raspberries or Strawberries: Fresh berries add a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon rolls and make for an elegant presentation.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Warm Beverage: A hot cup of coffee or tea complements the flavors of the red velvet cinnamon rolls perfectly, making for a cozy morning treat.

Add Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The heat will slightly melt the ice cream for an indulgent experience.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Light and Fluffy Topping: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and complements the richness of the rolls beautifully.

Serve as a Breakfast Treat

• Morning Delight: These rolls make an excellent breakfast option. Just warm them up and enjoy them fresh out of the oven!

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your red velvet cinnamon rolls turn out soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, follow these expert tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy products are at room temperature before you start. This helps in achieving a smooth dough consistency.
• Knead Properly: Kneading is crucial for gluten development. Aim for 5-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic to get those fluffy rolls.
• Don’t Skip the Rising Time: Allow adequate time for your dough to rise. This step is essential for creating soft, airy cinnamon rolls.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. Accurate baking temperatures are key to perfect results.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and butter to enhance flavor. Fresh ingredients lead to better-tasting rolls.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Avoid overbaking by checking on your rolls a few minutes before they’re supposed to be done. They should be lightly golden on top.

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Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Serving red velvet cinnamon rolls can be even more delightful when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the rolls.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries makes for a healthy side that balances sweetness.
3. Savory Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with sweet cinnamon rolls.
4. Eggs Benedict: This classic dish adds sophistication and pairs well with brunch-style servings.
5. Homemade Granola: A crunchy granola side offers texture and pairs well with coffee or tea.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds makes for a fun, vibrant addition.
7. Hash Browns: Golden crispy hash browns provide a savory option that rounds out any breakfast spread.
8. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses; their creamy textures complement the sweetness of red velvet cinnamon rolls nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home bakers face challenges when making red velvet cinnamon rolls. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients can hinder the dough’s rise. Always ensure your milk, eggs, and butter are at room temperature before starting.
• Skipping the yeast proofing step: If you skip letting the yeast sit in warm milk, it may not activate properly. Always let it froth for about 10 minutes.
• Over-kneading or under-kneading the dough: Kneading too long can make the dough tough, while not kneading enough can lead to flat rolls. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture.
• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Measure accurately by spooning and leveling the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Not letting the rolls rise properly: Skipping or shortening the rising time can result in dense rolls. Allow sufficient time for the dough to double in size for fluffy results.
• Applying icing too late: Waiting too long to ice your rolls means the icing won’t melt into them. Spread it on right after baking for a gooey finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store red velvet cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure they cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Freeze unbaked cinnamon rolls before rising for best results.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Check to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a roll in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes red velvet cinnamon rolls different?

Red velvet cinnamon rolls stand out due to their vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor infused into soft dough, combining sweetness with richness.

Can I make red velvet cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, then store them separately in the refrigerator overnight before assembly and baking.

How do I customize my red velvet cinnamon rolls?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even cream cheese chunks into the filling for added texture and flavor. Experimenting is encouraged!

Are there gluten-free options for red velvet cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Adjustments may be needed based on your specific blend.

Final Thoughts

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are perfect for any special occasion or as a sweet treat anytime. Their soft texture combined with rich flavors makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with toppings or fillings that suit your taste!