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These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring a deliciously vibrant twist to the classic cinnamon roll you know and love. Their striking red color and creamy frosting make them a showstopper for holidays, brunches, or any time you want a sweet treat that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of soft dough, warm cinnamon, and luscious cream cheese frosting creates a comforting bite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I remember the first time I made these during a weekend brunch. The red color surprised everyone and the combination of cinnamon and cream cheese frosting quickly made these rolls a new family favorite. Now I often bake them for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients
- Flour: for the dough is all-purpose flour, essential for a soft, fluffy texture. Use fresh, unbleached flour if possible to get the best results.
- Granulated sugar: adds gentle sweetness to the dough which balances the cinnamon filling.
- Active dry yeast: helps the dough rise nicely, so check the expiration date for freshness.
- Baking powder and salt: work together to provide the perfect leavening and seasoning in the dough.
- Whole milk: warmed to the right temperature activates the yeast and hydrates the flour, helping create a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter: gives richness to both dough and filling, using unsalted allows you to control the salt.
- Egg: adds structure and moisture to the dough while red food coloring creates that signature red velvet hue, choose a gel color for vibrant but not runny dough.
- Vanilla extract: adds subtle depth of flavor to the dough and frosting.
- Brown sugar: is key in the filling as it adds caramel notes that pair beautifully with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: brings the warm spice that defines cinnamon rolls.
- Mini chocolate chips: are optional but add melty pockets of chocolate to the rolls when used.
- Cream cheese: in the frosting lends a tangy, creamy finish that contrasts perfectly with the sweet dough.
- Powdered sugar: for the frosting ensures a smooth, spreadable texture without grittiness.
- Milk: in the frosting thins it to the perfect consistency for glazing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Whisk together 2 cups of flour with sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry and incorporate remaining flour slowly until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and Rise:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about one hour.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until fully combined. This mixture will provide the signature sweet and spicy swirl in every bite.
- Roll Out Dough:
- Roll the risen dough into a 12 by 18 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough and sprinkle mini chocolate chips if desired. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape and cut into 12 equal slices.
- Second Rise and Bake:
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish and cover to rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F or 175°C. Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make Frosting:
- While the rolls bake, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk, adjusting the amount until the frosting reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.
- Finish Up:
- Once the rolls have baked and cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth softness and rich flavors.
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My favorite part is the cream cheese frosting because it adds that perfect tang and indulgence that complements the sweet cinnamon sugar inside. I remember sharing these rolls at a festive brunch where their bold color and warm aroma became the centerpiece of the table, sparking conversation and smiles all around.
Storage Tips
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will remain fresh for up to 3 days. Before refrigerating, let rolls cool fully to avoid condensation. To keep the frosting from becoming too firm, you can place a damp paper towel over the container before sealing.
Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls is easy if you cool them completely first, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. This method keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating, warming in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes brings back that fresh-baked texture, while microwaving requires short bursts of 15 seconds to avoid overcooking. For a softer crust, reheat on a stovetop skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to avoid artificial food coloring, natural beet juice or natural red food coloring work well to create the vibrant hue. The taste is slightly different but still delicious.
For dairy-free or vegan options, substitute plant-based milk and butter alternatives. Use a vegan cream cheese and powdered sugar frosting mix instead of traditional cream cheese.
Nut substitutes such as chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the filling for an additional layer of texture and flavor if you prefer some crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rolls warm alongside a rich cup of coffee or a latte for a perfect brunch pairing. For a refreshing contrast, accompany with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries.
A drizzle of extra cream cheese frosting or a dollop of whipped cream adds extra indulgence for guests who crave a sweeter bite.
For dessert style, serve warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a comforting plate that everyone will love.
They also shine as part of a brunch spread, pairing well with savory options like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit salad to balance sweet and savory flavors.
Pro Tips
- Make sure your milk is warm but not hot when activating yeast. Too hot and it kills your yeast, leading to dense rolls.
- Don’t skip kneading, it develops gluten and gives rolls the soft, elastic texture you want.
- Allow the dough to rise fully each time until doubled. Rushing this step affects fluffiness and may result in dense rolls.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls?
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, and allow it to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. The second rise after shaping ensures extra fluffiness.
- → Can I substitute red food coloring naturally?
Yes, natural alternatives like beet juice provide vibrant red color without artificial additives.
- → What is the best way to store leftover rolls?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze them tightly wrapped for longer storage.
- → How do I prevent the filling from being greasy?
Use softened butter and spread it evenly over the dough before adding cinnamon sugar to ensure a balanced filling without excess grease.
- → What variations can I add to the filling?
Consider adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts like pecans, or adjusting cinnamon levels for personalized flavor.