Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a tasty twist on two beloved treats. The rich, red velvet flavor adds a fun and festive touch, while the soft, gooey cinnamon filling creates an irresistible combination. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet dessert. The ingredients are simple, making it easy to enjoy this delightful treat at home.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

You should try this recipe because it brings together two favorites in an exciting way. The vibrant color and delicious taste make these rolls perfect for special occasions or holidays. Plus, they are super fun to make! Your family and friends will love the surprise of red velvet combined with gooey cinnamon goodness.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients:

• 3 cups Bread flour (- + extra for dusting)
• 2¼ tsp Active dry yeast (- 1 packet)
• ¾ cup Buttermilk (- Warmed to lukewarm)
• 2 Large eggs (- Room temperature)
• ¼ cup Unsalted butter (- Softened)
• ⅓ cup Granulated sugar
• 2½ tsp Gel red food coloring (- Adjust for deeper red)
• 2 tbsp Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• ½ tsp Fine salt
• ½ cup Softened butter
• 1 cup Brown sugar (- Light or dark)
• 2 tbsp Ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp Cocoa powder (- Unsweetened)
• Pinch of salt
• 8 oz Full-fat cream cheese (- Softened)
• 1 cup Powdered sugar (- Sifted)
• ¼ cup Butter (- Softened)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp Heavy cream (- Adjust for desired consistency)

Equipments Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Oven
• Electric mixer (for icing)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Proof yeast: In a bowl, combine the warm buttermilk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, gel food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix until you have a smooth dough.
3. Let it rise: Cover the dough and place it in a warm spot. Let it rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
4. Roll out the dough: Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle.
5. Spread the filling: Mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture over the rolled-out dough.
6. Slice the rolls: Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other. Slice it into equal pieces.
7. Let them puff: Place the slices in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Cool and ice: Let the rolls cool slightly, then prepare the cream cheese icing by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Serve these delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls warm for the best experience. You can add extra cream cheese icing on top for those who love a sweeter treat. They are perfect for brunch or a cozy dessert.

How to Store Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure your buttermilk is warm to help the yeast activate properly.
• Be careful not to over-knead the dough to keep it soft and fluffy.
• Experiment with the amount of red food coloring to get your desired shade of red.

Variations & Substitutions

You can make these rolls with lactose-free milk if you prefer. For a chocolate lover’s twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the filling.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight.

2. How do I prevent the rolls from getting too hard?
Make sure to wrap them well if storing for later, and avoid over-baking them.

3. Can I use a different type of flour?
Using all-purpose flour may work, but bread flour will give you a softer and chewier texture, which is ideal for cinnamon rolls.

Print