Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

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Introduction

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a show-stopping treat that combines the indulgent flavors of red velvet cake with the comforting, warm goodness of cinnamon rolls. These soft, pillowy rolls are infused with a subtle chocolatey flavor and have the signature red color that makes them as visually striking as they are delicious. Topped with a velvety cream cheese glaze, these rolls are the perfect blend of rich, buttery, and sweet.

Ideal for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or a decadent breakfast, these cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The creamy glaze adds a luxurious touch that complements the slight cocoa richness in the dough, making every bite a mouthwatering experience.

Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are sure to elevate any morning or dessert table. With their combination of flavor, texture, and stunning visual appeal, these rolls are an unforgettable indulgence that everyone will love.

Perfect for:

  • Valentine’s Day
  • Brunch parties
  • Special occasions
  • Sweet breakfast treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try:

  • Gorgeous and Festive: The vibrant red color makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or celebrations.
  • Decadent Flavor: A unique red velvet twist on the classic cinnamon roll flavor with hints of cocoa and a creamy glaze.
  • Perfect Texture: Soft, fluffy dough with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling.
  • Great for Sharing: These rolls are easy to serve and perfect for a crowd.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hours
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Servings: 12 rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates, fat, and a touch of protein

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder

For the Cinnamon Filling:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

  • Red Food Coloring: Gives the cinnamon rolls their signature red velvet color.
  • Cocoa Powder: Adds a subtle chocolate flavor to the dough, enhancing the red velvet experience.
  • Cream Cheese Glaze: The creamy, tangy glaze balances the sweetness of the rolls and adds a luxurious finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
  2. Mix the Dough:
    In a large bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough comes together.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add additional flour as needed if the dough is too sticky.
  4. Let the Dough Rise:
    Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Make the Cinnamon Filling:

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls:

  1. Roll Out the Dough:
    Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
  2. Spread the Filling:
    Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  3. Roll and Slice:
    Starting at the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 even slices using a serrated knife or dental floss.
  4. Prepare for Baking:
    Place the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes.

Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake the Rolls:
    Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top and cooked through.

Make the Glaze:

  1. Prepare the Glaze:
    While the rolls bake, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Finish the Rolls:

  1. Glaze the Rolls:
    Once the rolls have finished baking, let them cool for 5 minutes before drizzling the cream cheese glaze over the top.
  2. Serve and Enjoy:
    Serve the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy the decadent, creamy, and flavorful treat!

How to Serve

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for:

  • Brunch: Serve with fresh fruit and coffee for a delightful brunch spread.
  • Special Occasions: Ideal for Valentine’s Day, Easter, or any holiday where you want to impress.
  • Dessert: Serve them as a sweet ending to a special dinner or party.

Additional Tips

  • Let the Dough Rise: Don’t rush the dough rising process. This step is key to achieving soft, fluffy rolls.
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened before use to ensure smooth textures.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese glaze.

Recipe Variations

  • Cream Cheese Frosting Drizzle: Instead of traditional glaze, drizzle a tangy cream cheese frosting over the rolls. It complements the red velvet flavor beautifully.
  • Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Rolls: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough or sprinkle them inside the rolls for a chocolatey surprise with every bite.
  • Bacon and Maple Syrup: For a savory-sweet variation, include crispy bacon bits in the filling and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
  • Red Velvet Caramel Rolls: Use a caramel sauce (either homemade or store-bought) as the filling instead of cinnamon for a rich and sweet flavor.
  • Nutella Red Velvet Rolls: Spread Nutella on the dough before rolling it up for a chocolate hazelnut twist on the classic.
  • Orange Zest Infused: Add a bit of fresh orange zest to the dough or glaze for a citrusy punch that pairs perfectly with the red velvet flavor.
  • Strawberry Cream Cheese Filling: Incorporate a fresh strawberry jam or fresh strawberries mixed with cream cheese for a fruity, creamy filling.
  • Maple Pecan Red Velvet Rolls: Add chopped pecans into the filling for a crunchy texture and drizzle with maple syrup or a pecan glaze.
  • Coconut Red Velvet Rolls: Mix shredded coconut into the filling or sprinkle it on top of the frosting to add tropical flavor and texture.
  • Red Velvet and Coffee: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the dough for a slight coffee flavor that complements the rich red velvet taste.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked cinnamon rolls (without glaze) for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before freezing. Reheat before serving.

Special Equipment

  • Stand Mixer – For mixing and kneading the dough efficiently.
  • Rolling Pin – To roll out the dough into a smooth, even sheet.
  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish – To bake the rolls in, ensuring they stay moist and fluffy.
  • Whisk – For mixing dry ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, and sugar.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Silicone Spatula – For scraping down the sides of the bowl and spreading the filling.
  • Baking Mat (Silpat) – For rolling the dough on a non-stick surface.
  • Pastry Brush – To brush melted butter onto the dough before adding cinnamon sugar.
  • Kitchen Thermometer – To check the temperature of the dough for proper proofing.
  • Piping Bag (optional) – To pipe cream cheese frosting on the rolls after baking for a smooth, decorative finish.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use store-bought dough?
    Yes, you can substitute store-bought dough, but homemade dough adds a special touch and flavor.
  2. Can I make these in advance?
    Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then refrigerate overnight and bake the next morning.
  3. How do I make them less sweet?
    Reduce the amount of sugar in both the dough and glaze for a less sweet version.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing a rich, velvety color and flavor to your breakfast table. The soft, pillowy dough is infused with a hint of cocoa, giving it that signature red velvet taste, while the swirls of cinnamon and sugar create a sweet, comforting filling. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese glaze, these rolls are the perfect balance of rich and sweet.

These cinnamon rolls are ideal for any special occasion—whether it’s a holiday breakfast, a birthday, or simply a cozy weekend treat. The vibrant red hue makes them a showstopper, while the melt-in-your-mouth texture ensures they’ll be devoured in no time. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd, making them a go-to recipe for gatherings.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the irresistible combination of cinnamon, red velvet, and cream cheese with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. This indulgent recipe is sure to make any morning feel like a celebration!

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