Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with a vibrant red velvet twist. These rolls are not only visually striking but also incredibly delicious, making them perfect for brunch, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion where you want to impress. The soft, buttery dough swirled with cinnamon and topped with creamy frosting creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these rolls are perfect for novice bakers.
- Stunning Presentation: The bright red color makes these rolls a show-stopper on any table.
- Deliciously Sweet and Spicy: The combination of cinnamon and cocoa adds depth to the flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm for breakfast or as a dessert at dinner.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Great for holidays, celebrations, or just because!
Tools and Preparation
To make your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline the process. Preparing ahead will ensure that everything goes smoothly when you’re ready to bake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Plastic wrap
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Makes it easier to combine ingredients thoroughly and knead the dough effectively.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to create the perfect shape for your rolls.
- Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your cinnamon rolls to golden perfection.
Ingredients
A tender, tangy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls softened by buttermilk, richly colored with gel food coloring and unsweetened cocoa, then swirled with a buttery cinnamon–brown sugar filling and topped with silky cream‑cheese frosting. Perfect for brunch, Valentine’s morning, or any time you need a show-stopping treat.
For the Dough
- 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
For the Filling
- ½ cup Softened butter
- 1 cup Brown sugar (- Light or dark)
- 2 tbsp Ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp Cocoa powder (- Unsweetened)
- – pinch Salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 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)
How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
First, proof the yeast in warmed buttermilk until bubbly. In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine all wet ingredients (buttermilk mixture, eggs, butter) with dry ingredients (bread flour, sugar, cocoa powder, salt). Mix until you achieve a smooth dough.
Step 2: Let It Rise
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in a warm location. Allow it to rise until it has doubled in size, usually about 1-1.5 hours.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface and sprinkle evenly with brown sugar mixture (cinnamon, cocoa powder, pinch of salt).
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Starting from one edge of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Slice into even pieces using a sharp knife or floss.
Step 5: Bake and Frost
Let the sliced rolls rise again until puffy. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown. Once slightly cooled, generously apply cream cheese frosting over each roll before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!
How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast or dessert, serving them creatively can elevate the experience.
With Cream Cheese Frosting
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich and tangy contrast to the sweet rolls.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a refreshing taste that complements the cinnamon rolls.
On a Brunch Platter
- Add Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls to a brunch spread featuring pancakes, fruit, and coffee. Their vibrant color makes them a showstopper!
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- For an indulgent twist, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the rolls before serving.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- These rolls pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, enhancing their flavors while providing a comforting beverage.
How to Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Creating the perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Knead the Dough Well: Kneading helps develop gluten, making your rolls light and fluffy. Aim for about 5-7 minutes.
- Let it Rise in Warmth: Find a warm spot for the dough to rise. This can help it double in size faster.
- Don’t Overfill: When spreading the filling, avoid going too close to the edges. This helps prevent overflow during baking.
- Cool Before Icing: Allow your rolls to cool slightly before adding the cream cheese frosting so it doesn’t melt away.
Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can be enhanced by pairing them with complementary side dishes that balance their sweetness.
Scrambled Eggs
A classic choice, fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and create a hearty breakfast experience.Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the rolls.Maple Bacon Turkey Sausage
This savory option adds depth to your meal without compromising on flavor.Yogurt Parfait
Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy contrast that pairs well with sweet rolls.Hash Browns
Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness to your brunch table, making it complete.Smoothies
A refreshing smoothie blends perfectly with sweet treats while providing essential nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can be delightful, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the perfect rolls.
- Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can prevent the dough from rising properly. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
- Not measuring flour correctly – Too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Use the spoon and level method to ensure accurate measurement.
- Skipping the proofing step – Failing to let your dough rise adequately will result in less fluffy cinnamon rolls. Be patient and allow the dough to double in size.
- Overfilling the rolls – While it’s tempting to add extra filling, it can make rolling difficult and cause spills during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts.
- Baking at the wrong temperature – Make sure your oven is preheated properly. Baking at too low a temperature can lead to undercooked centers.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep separated with parchment paper if stacking them.
Freezing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Warm individual rolls for about 15-20 seconds; avoid overheating as they may become tough.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a rich red color and subtle cocoa flavor, topped with cream cheese frosting.
How do I make my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls fluffier?
Ensure you proof your yeast properly and allow enough time for your dough to rise fully before baking.
Can I make these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them up until the second rise and refrigerate overnight before baking in the morning.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can easily substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
Are there vegan options for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk and coconut oil while using flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
Final Thoughts
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not just visually stunning; they also offer a delightful blend of flavors that makes them perfect for any occasion. Customize them by adding nuts or swapping out spices according to your taste. Try making these marvelous treats today; they’re sure to impress!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the vibrant delight of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, a unique twist on the classic cinnamon roll. These visually striking treats feature a soft, buttery dough infused with cocoa and swirled with a rich cinnamon-brown sugar filling. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for brunches, special occasions, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth. Their eye-catching red hue and delectable flavors will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Make your mornings memorable with these delightful rolls that are as fun to make as they are to eat!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup buttermilk (warmed)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2½ tsp gel red food coloring
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup softened butter (for filling)
- 1 cup brown sugar (for filling)
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon (for filling)
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened, for frosting)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted, for frosting)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened, for frosting)
Instructions
- Proof the yeast in warmed buttermilk until bubbly.
- In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the wet ingredients (buttermilk mixture, eggs, butter) with dry ingredients (bread flour, sugar, cocoa powder). Mix until smooth.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm location until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread softened butter over it. Sprinkle evenly with the brown sugar mixture combined with cinnamon.
- Roll tightly from one edge to form a log and slice into even pieces.
- Let rolls rise again until puffy before baking at a preheated oven until golden brown.
- Once slightly cooled, generously frost each roll with cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Knead the dough well to achieve light and fluffy rolls. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.