INTRODUCTION
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect blend of rich flavors and inviting colors. These rolls combine the classic taste of red velvet cake with the warm, comforting goodness of cinnamon rolls. The result is a delightful treat that is soft, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or dessert. With a swirl of cinnamon and sugar, topped with cream cheese frosting, they are hard to resist. You can enjoy these rolls for special occasions, holidays, or any day you want to treat yourself.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. First, they look beautiful with their deep red color and white frosting. They are eye-catching and will impress your family and friends. Second, the taste is wonderful. The rich flavor of red velvet pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cinnamon and brown sugar. Lastly, they are easy to make. Whether you are a baking expert or a beginner, you can create these delicious rolls without any hassle.
HOW TO MAKE Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls takes a few simple steps. Below, you will find all the information you need to prepare these delightful treats from scratch.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, you will need some basic kitchen tools:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large bowls
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the ingredients you will need to make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
For cream cheese frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important to ensure your rolls bake evenly.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will be your dry mixture.
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Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. This mixture will bring moisture and sweetness to the dough.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. You might need to use your hands to bring it all together.
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Roll Out the Dough: Once your dough is ready, place it on a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll it out into a large rectangle.
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Add Fillings: Brush the rolled dough with melted butter. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the top. This step gives the rolls their sweet and spicy flavor.
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Roll It Up: Starting from one side, gently roll the dough into a tight log. Be careful not to squish it down too much.
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Cut into Rolls: Use a sharp knife to cut the log into individual rolls, about 1-2 inches thick. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish.
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Let Them Rise: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes. They should become bigger and puff up.
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Bake the Rolls: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
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Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
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Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. This will make the frosting melt slightly and soak into the rolls.
Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!
HOW TO SERVE Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can be served warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert. You can also serve them with a cup of coffee or tea. If you want to make the experience special, consider adding fresh berries or a fruit compote on the side. This will add an extra touch of flavor and color to your dish.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
If you have leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to 2 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Here are some great ways to enjoy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls:
- Top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a fun dessert.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
- Pair with a nice cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat on a chilly day.
VARIATIONS
You can make these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls even more fun by trying some variations:
- Chocolate Chip: Add chocolate chips to the filling for extra chocolate flavor.
- Nutty: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Add dollops of cream cheese filling inside the rolls before baking for a gooey surprise.
- Different Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla glaze or even a chocolate frosting for a different taste.
FAQs
What makes Red Velvet flavored?
Red Velvet flavor comes from a mix of cocoa powder and buttermilk, along with a bit of vanilla. The color often comes from red food coloring, which is typical for this type of cake or roll.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and the filling the night before. Keep it in the fridge and bake it fresh in the morning.
What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky while rolling, sprinkle a bit of flour on your work surface and on top of the dough. This will help make it easier to work with.
Can I leave out the food coloring?
Yes, you can skip the red food coloring if you prefer. The rolls will still taste great, but they will not have the classic red velvet color.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
If you want to make these rolls in advance, here are some helpful tips:
- Prepare the Dough: You can make the dough a day ahead. After mixing, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
- Freezing Rolls: Cut the rolls and place them in the baking dish. Cover and freeze them before the second rise. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then let them rise before baking.
- Frosting: Make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just beat it again before spreading it on the rolls.
With these simple steps, your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls will be a hit! Enjoy making and sharing them with loved ones. They are sure to brighten anyone’s day!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Place the dough on a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle.
- Brush the rolled dough with melted butter, then sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the top.
- Starting from one side, gently roll the dough into a tight log.
- Cut the log into individual rolls, about 1-2 inches thick, and place in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes.
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until creamy, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes, then frost with cream cheese frosting.