These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the traditional cinnamon roll, perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant red color and luscious cream cheese frosting, they are sure to impress family and friends at gatherings or celebrations. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the rich flavor of red velvet makes these rolls a standout treat that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of red velvet and cinnamon creates a unique taste experience that is both sweet and comforting.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or special occasions like holidays and birthdays.
Eye-Catching Appearance: The vibrant red color topped with creamy frosting makes these rolls visually stunning for any table setting.
Decadent Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the rolls.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Baking dish (9×13-inch)
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Rolling pin: Helps in rolling out the dough evenly for perfect-sized rolls.
Baking dish: Ensures even baking and easy serving of your delicious cinnamon rolls.

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 (for filling)
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Frosting:

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

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

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

Step 2: Knead and Rise

On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough into an oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

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

Step 4: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle measuring about 12×18 inches.
Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough. If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top.
Roll the dough tightly into a log shape and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place sliced rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them again and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

While baking, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk; mix until you reach your preferred consistency.

Step 8: Frost & Enjoy!

Once baked and slightly cooled, generously spread cream cheese frosting over each roll. Enjoy these soft, fluffy, and decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, serving them with the right accompaniments can enhance their flavor and make for a memorable experience.

With a Glass of Milk

Pair these rolls with cold milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the rich flavors of the red velvet.

With Fresh Berries

Serve your cinnamon rolls alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls.

As a Dessert Platter

Arrange your red velvet cinnamon rolls on a platter with other desserts. Include mini cupcakes or brownies to create an enticing spread for gatherings.

Topped with Additional Frosting

For those who love extra sweetness, drizzle more cream cheese frosting on top just before serving. This makes each bite even more indulgent.

With Coffee or Tea

Enjoy your rolls with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage pairs well with the soft texture of these rolls.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail and a few tips to elevate your baking game. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten, giving you fluffy rolls.
Let It Rise Properly: Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size for optimal fluffiness.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake; overbaking can lead to dry cinnamon rolls.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add nuts or different chocolate types into the filling for added flavor and crunch.
Store Correctly: To keep them fresh longer, store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are versatile enough to pair well with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement their rich flavor:

Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
Bacon or Sausage: The salty crunch of bacon or savory sausage links provide a delightful contrast to the sweet rolls.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers bright flavors that lighten up your meal while adding vitamins.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy texture and healthy addition.
Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns bring a satisfying crunch that pairs well with soft cinnamon rolls.
Pancakes: For an indulgent breakfast spread, serve pancakes alongside red velvet cinnamon rolls; drizzled syrup is optional!
Cheese Platter: Incorporate a selection of cheeses; their savory notes will balance out the sweetness perfectly.
Cinnamon Apple Compote: A warm apple compote enhances flavors while providing moisture and added sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

Skipping the rise time – Not allowing the dough to rise properly can lead to dense rolls. Always give your dough ample time to double in size.
Using cold ingredients – Cold milk or butter can hinder yeast activation. Ensure all liquids and fats are at room temperature before mixing.
Overfilling the rolls – Adding too much filling can make rolling difficult and cause spills during baking. Use just enough filling for a balanced flavor.
Not measuring flour correctly – Too much flour will dry out your dough. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
Neglecting the frosting consistency – If the cream cheese frosting is too thick, it won’t spread well. Adjust with milk until you achieve a smooth, spreadable texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Microwave – Heat for about 20-30 seconds on medium power. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls that may help enhance your baking experience.

What makes Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls different from regular cinnamon rolls?

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls feature cocoa powder and red food coloring, giving them a unique flavor and vibrant color compared to traditional cinnamon rolls.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls ahead of time. Just refrigerate before baking; let them rise before baking when you’re ready.

How do I store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Leftover rolls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer preservation.

Can I customize my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap chocolate chips for white chocolate, or use different frostings like vanilla or buttercream.

How do I ensure my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls turn out fluffy?

Make sure your dough rises adequately and knead it well until smooth and elastic. The right amount of yeast is also crucial for fluffiness.

Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat or dessert, they are sure to impress. Feel free to customize with various fillings or toppings to suit your taste!

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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, where traditional cinnamon rolls meet the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake. These soft, fluffy rolls are not just a feast for the eyes with their vibrant hue; they are beautifully complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds a tangy sweetness to each bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these cinnamon rolls will impress family and friends at any gathering. Whether you serve them warm out of the oven or as part of a festive dessert platter, they are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Scale

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
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
2–4 tbsp milk (for frosting)

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Instructions

In a bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla. Stir into dry ingredients.
Gradually add remaining flour to form a soft dough; knead until smooth.
Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl for about an hour until doubled in size.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread with filling mixture (butter, brown sugar, cinnamon), then roll tightly and slice into pieces.
Place in a greased baking dish; let rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Prepare frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth; adjust with milk if needed.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American