Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Favorite
Introduction
Imagine the rich, velvety texture of red velvet cake merging seamlessly with the gooey, cinnamon-filled layers of a classic cinnamon roll. That’s exactly what you get with these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls—a delightful fusion of flavors that turns any breakfast or dessert into an indulgent experience. Whether you’re making them for a holiday brunch, a romantic breakfast, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
In this guide, you’ll discover a step-by-step recipe to create the perfect red velvet cinnamon rolls from scratch, complete with a luscious cream cheese glaze. We’ll cover everything—from the essential ingredients to expert baking tips—so that your rolls turn out soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Let’s get started!
What Makes Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Special?
These cinnamon rolls stand out because they combine the best of two worlds:
- Rich, chocolate-infused dough: A hint of cocoa powder gives the rolls their signature red velvet flavor.
- Sweet and spiced filling: The classic cinnamon sugar filling enhances the warm, gooey texture.
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Thanks to a soft, buttery dough, each bite is perfectly tender.
- Decadent cream cheese glaze: A tangy and sweet frosting that takes the flavor to the next level.
If you love cinnamon rolls but want to try something unique, this recipe is for you.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Dough Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Provides structure and softness |
| Cocoa Powder | Adds the signature red velvet flavor |
| Granulated Sugar | Sweetens the dough |
| Red Food Coloring | Enhances the classic red velvet look |
| Warm Milk | Helps activate the yeast |
| Unsalted Butter | Adds richness and moisture |
| Active Dry Yeast | Allows the dough to rise |
| Eggs | Contributes to softness |
| Salt | Balances sweetness and enhances flavor |
Cinnamon Filling
- Brown sugar – for deep caramel-like sweetness
- Ground cinnamon – adds warmth and spice
- Melted butter – helps the filling stick to the dough
Cream Cheese Glaze
- Cream cheese – rich and tangy
- Powdered sugar – ensures smooth sweetness
- Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor
- Milk – adjusts the glaze’s consistency
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Making the Dough
Start by warming the milk and butter until they reach a lukewarm temperature. Stir in the yeast and a pinch of sugar, then let it sit until it becomes foamy.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, sugar, eggs, and red food coloring. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Preparing the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. This will create a rich, sticky filling that enhances the taste of the rolls.
3. Rolling and Filling
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a ¼-inch thick rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough. Roll it tightly from one end to the other and slice into 1-inch pieces.
4. Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Making the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls for the ultimate finishing touch.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
✔ Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing ✔ Knead until smooth for the best texture ✔ Roll the dough tightly to keep the filling from leaking out ✔ Let them cool slightly before glazing so the icing doesn’t melt completely
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 58g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sugar | 30g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. The next morning, let it come to room temperature before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Bake and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, warm them in the oven for a fresh taste.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat to impress family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Try this recipe today and experience the magic of soft, gooey cinnamon rolls with a red velvet twist!
