Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

INTRODUCTION

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a sweet twist on a classic cinnamon roll. With their bright red color and cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for special occasions or a cozy breakfast at home. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with cinnamon and sugar. Whether you are making them for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, they are sure to impress.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe combines two beloved treats—cinnamon rolls and red velvet cake. The rich and tender dough is colored with red food coloring, giving these rolls a festive look. The spiced aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen as they bake, making it hard to resist eating them warm right out of the oven. Topped with a creamy frosting, these rolls are a delightful mix of flavors and textures. They are not just delicious; they also add a pop of color to your table.

HOW TO MAKE Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Making heavenly red velvet cinnamon rolls is easier than you think. The process is simple, and the result is worth every minute. With easy-to-follow steps, you will have fresh, warm rolls in no time.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make these sweet rolls, you will need:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A rolling pin
• A baking dish or sheet pan
• A whisk or mixer
• Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel

Ingredients You’ll Need :

• 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
• 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
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir the mixture gently until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
3. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Mix the flour mixture into the milk mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
5. Add the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional mini chocolate chips.
2. Mix well until it forms a spreadable paste.

Step 3: Roll and Assemble

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Turn it out onto a floured surface.
2. Roll the dough into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Starting at one end, roll the dough tightly into a log.
5. Cut the roll into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

1. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and let them rise for about 30 minutes until they puff up.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are lightly golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix well.
3. Add vanilla extract and enough milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

1. Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Drizzle or spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!

HOW TO SERVE Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls can be served warm right out of the oven, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful treat. They can also be served at special occasions, such as holidays or birthday parties.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To store leftover rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the rolls. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

You can serve these heavenly red velvet cinnamon rolls with a side of fresh fruit. Berries, bananas, or sliced apples add a nice balance to the sweetness of the rolls. Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also makes a great topping.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to make these rolls your own. You can add walnuts or pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture. For a more chocolatey flavor, include chocolate chips in the dough and filling. You can also experiment with different types of frosting, such as vanilla or even a chocolate ganache.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.

2. Can I use different food coloring?
Absolutely! While red food coloring gives these rolls their signature look, you can use any color you like for a fun twist.

3. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be lightly golden brown on top and they should spring back when lightly pressed. You can also use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean.

4. Can I make these rolls without yeast?
Using a yeast-based dough gives these rolls their fluffy texture. You can try using a biscuit recipe for a quicker version, but the texture will be different.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To save time, you can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead. After rolling and assembling the rolls, refrigerate them. In the morning, let them rise for a bit, bake, frost, and enjoy hot rolls with very little effort. This way, you get all the yum without all the work in the morning!

By following the steps above, you can create delightful heavenly red velvet cinnamon rolls that will impress anyone who tries them. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Print