Indulge in Decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls! Perfect for special occasions, these rich, velvety rolls are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.

Introduction

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved classic, cherished for their soft, gooey centers and sweet, cinnamon-spiced swirls. But what if you could take this beloved treat and give it a luxurious twist? Enter Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls – a decadent fusion of rich red velvet cake and traditional cinnamon rolls. These rolls are perfect for special occasions, whether it’s a holiday breakfast, a romantic brunch, or just a weekend treat. The deep red hue of the dough is visually striking and adds a touch of elegance, while the familiar warmth of cinnamon provides a comforting contrast. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these rolls are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The process of making these rolls is a delightful journey, from kneading the vibrant dough to spreading the creamy frosting on the freshly baked rolls. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this indulgent, show-stopping breakfast treat. Let’s dive into the recipe for these irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter until the butter melts. Let it cool to lukewarm.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, cocoa powder, yeast, and salt. Add the lukewarm milk mixture, egg, and red food coloring. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds, then on high speed for 3 minutes.
3. Gradually stir in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
7. Spread the softened butter over the dough. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
8. Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut into 12 even slices.
9. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through.
11. While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy. Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
12. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls before serving.

How to Prepare

Begin by making the dough: heat the milk and butter, then combine the dry ingredients with the milk mixture, egg, and food coloring. Beat until smooth, then knead the dough until elastic. Let the dough rise until doubled, then roll it out and spread with butter, cinnamon, and sugar. Roll into a log and cut into slices, arranging them in a baking pan. After a second rise, bake the rolls until golden. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter, gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla, adjusting the consistency with milk. Spread the frosting on the warm rolls for a delicious finish.

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 12 decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, perfect for sharing.

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. Bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. Can I use a different type of food coloring?

Liquid or gel food coloring works best for a vibrant red hue. Adjust the amount based on the type used.

3. How should I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

4. Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls after the first rise. Place the slices on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

5. Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Certainly! Feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon sugar filling for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a luxurious take on a breakfast favorite, combining the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the comforting, cinnamon-sugar goodness of traditional cinnamon rolls. These rolls are perfect for special occasions or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extraordinary. The striking red color and the creamy frosting make these rolls a visual and culinary delight. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making and, most importantly, savoring these delicious rolls. Happy baking!