Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. With their rich red hue, soft texture, and sweet cream cheese icing, they are perfect for any special occasion, including Valentine’s Day or Christmas. Each bite is an indulgent experience that combines the flavors of cocoa and cinnamon in a comforting roll.

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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: Make Cream Cheese Icing
• Step 9: Ice Rolls
• How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• With Fresh Berries
• Drizzled with Extra Cream Cheese Icing
• Served Warm with Coffee
• Ice Cream on the Side
• Brunch Buffet Option
• With Whipped Cream
• 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
• How do I make my red velvet cinnamon rolls extra gooey?
• Can I use store-bought dough for red velvet cinnamon rolls?
• What can I substitute for cream cheese icing?
• How long do red velvet cinnamon rolls stay fresh?
• Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of red velvet and cinnamon creates a unique taste that pleases any palate.
• Perfect for Celebrations: These rolls are visually stunning and ideal for festive gatherings or brunches.
• Easy to Follow: Step-by-step instructions make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as leftovers warmed up; they’re delightful either way!
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant color and creamy icing create an eye-catching centerpiece for your table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with a dough hook
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender (or fingers)
• Rolling pin
• 9×14-inch casserole pan (or 9×13-inch baking pan)
• Hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with a dough hook: Makes kneading effortless, resulting in a well-developed dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough.

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

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

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

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. Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Increase to medium speed and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic; it should have a bright red color.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Preheat the oven to 200°F then turn it off. 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 it rise in the warm oven for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Make Cinnamon Filling

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

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Roll the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough to reach all edges.

Step 6: Form Rolls

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

Step 7: Final Rise & Bake

Spray your casserole pan with nonstick spray. Arrange rolls in the pan; cover with a towel and let rise for an additional 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pour heavy cream around rolls in the pan before baking for about 25-27 minutes until golden brown or when internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Icing

While rolls bake, use a hand mixer to mix cream cheese and butter on high speed until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fully combined. Add vanilla extract and milk until icing is spreadable.

Step 9: Ice Rolls

Spread icing over warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven so it melts slightly into them for that gooey finish.

Enjoy these incredible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls fresh from your oven!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are not just a treat; they can be served in many delightful ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls can be paired with various accompaniments to elevate their deliciousness.

With Fresh Berries

• Raspberries or Strawberries: The tartness of fresh berries complements the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.

Drizzled with Extra Cream Cheese Icing

• More Icing: A generous drizzle of cream cheese icing adds extra richness and moisture, making each bite indulgent.

Served Warm with Coffee

• Coffee Pairing: Enjoying these cinnamon rolls warm with a cup of coffee enhances their flavors and provides a cozy experience.

Ice Cream on the Side

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm rolls creates a delightful contrast and adds creaminess.

Brunch Buffet Option

• Cinnamon Roll Platter: Include red velvet cinnamon rolls on a brunch buffet alongside other pastries for a colorful display.

With Whipped Cream

• Whipped Topping: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and balances the richness of the rolls.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To make the best red velvet cinnamon rolls, follow these tips for a flawless outcome.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and rise.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten and gives your rolls that perfect fluffy texture.
• Don’t Skip the Rise Time: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size is crucial for achieving soft and airy rolls.
• Watch Baking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on your cinnamon rolls while baking. Overbaking can lead to dryness; they should be golden brown but not too dark.
• Adjust Flour as Needed: Depending on humidity and altitude, you may need to adjust the amount of flour slightly to ensure the right dough consistency.
• Serve Immediately for Best Flavor: These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are still warm and gooey.

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Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red velvet cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavor profile. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that balances the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of red velvet.
3. Egg Casserole: A cheesy egg casserole rounds out your meal with protein, making it more satisfying.
4. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a nice texture contrast and heartiness to your brunch spread.
5. Yogurt Parfaits: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a lighter side option that pairs well with sweet treats.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option offers a creamy texture that complements the rich cinnamon rolls without overwhelming them.
7. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones add another layer of flavor that contrasts nicely with sweet pastries.
8. Green Smoothie: A refreshing green smoothie can cleanse the palate after indulging in rich cinnamon goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making red velvet cinnamon rolls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold ingredients can lead to a dense dough. Always ensure your dairy products are at room temperature for optimal mixing and rising.
• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough instead of soft and fluffy. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Skipping the Rise Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; give it time to double in size.
• Inaccurate Measuring: Not measuring ingredients correctly can throw off the recipe. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can burn or undercook your rolls. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover red velvet cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• item They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• item Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• item They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a roll in a pan with a splash of water, cover, and heat over low until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my red velvet cinnamon rolls extra gooey?

To achieve an extra gooey texture, consider adding more cream around the rolls before baking. This moisture will seep into the rolls.

Can I use store-bought dough for red velvet cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can use store-bought dough as a shortcut. Just add red food dye to match the classic red velvet color.

What can I substitute for cream cheese icing?

If you prefer a different topping, try using vanilla glaze or whipped cream instead of cream cheese icing for a lighter option.

How long do red velvet cinnamon rolls stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up until baking, then refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for soft and fluffy rolls.

Final Thoughts

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are not just visually stunning; they also deliver incredible flavor and texture. Perfect for any special occasion or simply as a weekend treat, you can customize these rolls by adding nuts or chocolate chips. Try making them today and delight your loved ones with this decadent twist on a classic favorite!

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