The moment I first pulled a tray of these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from the oven, the enticing aroma filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace. There’s something about the rich hue of red velvet combined with the sweet scent of cinnamon that instantly evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Each soft roll is a delightful surprise, with a gooey cinnamon-chocolate filling nestled inside, all crowned with a velvety cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special gathering, these rolls are not just a treat; they’re an experience. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging in a cozy brunch at home, they offer a beautiful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. Making these red velvet beauties doesn’t require any advanced skills, just a willingness to get a little floury and a heart ready to share some love. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create something delicious together that will surely make any moment a celebration!
Why are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls a must-try?
Indulgent Flavor: The combination of rich cocoa and cinnamon creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Visual Appeal: Their striking red hue and creamy frosting make them perfect for special occasions.
Easy to Make: No advanced baking skills required—just a bit of enthusiasm!
Perfectly Soft Texture: Each roll is pillowy and gooey, making them hard to resist.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re sure to delight any crowd. Elevate your culinary skills and check out my other fun breakfast recipes to surprise your loved ones!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Bread Flour (Tangzhong) – Builds structure and chewiness; keep it fresh for the best texture.
• Water (Tangzhong) – Creates the base for tangzhong, which locks in moisture.
• Whole Milk – Adds richness; substitute with any non-dairy alternative if needed.
• Heavy Cream – Enhances richness in both the dough and frosting.
• White Vinegar – Adds tanginess to enhance the red velvet flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling.
• Cocoa Powder – Gives the rolls their signature red velvet color and flavor.
• Instant Yeast – Promotes dough rising for a fluffy result.
• Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Egg – Provides moisture and structure; use a flax egg for a vegan version.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor.
• Red Gel Food Coloring – Enhances the vibrant color of the dough; adjust to desired hue.
• Unsalted Butter (Dough) – Keeps the dough rich and smooth.
For the Filling
• Unsalted Butter (Filling) – Blends well with other filling ingredients.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel notes to the filling.
• Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth and sweetness to the filling.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Intensifies vanilla flavor; substitute with vanilla extract if desired.
For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the fluffy frosting.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting to balance the tang.
• Heavy Cream (Frosting) – Contributes creaminess and texture.
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not just a recipe; they’re a celebration of flavors that will charm your loved ones on any occasion!
How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
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Prepare Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, combine bread flour and water over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
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Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, blend together milk, heavy cream, vinegar, bread flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, instant yeast, and sea salt. Add the egg, vanilla extract, tangzhong, and red gel food coloring to form a rough dough.
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Knead Dough: Gradually incorporate softened unsalted butter into the dough. Knead the mixture for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Allow the dough to rest in a warm place for 30 minutes.
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Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 15×21 inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Form Rolls: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight spiral. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into even strips and arrange them in a parchment-lined baking pan.
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First Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm environment for about 1-2 hours, or until they have doubled in size.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the rolls for 28-35 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F-180°F, and are lightly golden on top.
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Prepare Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat cream cheese and unsalted butter in a bowl until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until you achieve a smooth consistency.
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Frost Rolls: Once the rolls are baked and cool for about 15 minutes, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top while they are still warm, allowing it to melt into the rolls.
Optional: Serve warm for a gooey experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Airtight Container: Keep your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and prevents them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring deliciousness whenever you need a sweet treat.
Reheating: To enjoy your rolls, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, which will help to bring back their gooey goodness.
Thawing: If frozen, allow the rolls to thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before reheating for the best results.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to add your creative spin to these delightful sweet rolls, transforming them to suit your taste!
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness and richness. They’ll melt beautifully inside!
- Espresso Infusion: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the filling for a delicious coffee undertone that deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunch and added texture; the contrast is heavenly!
- Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical flair that complements the red velvet beautifully.
- Glaze Instead of Frosting: For a lighter alternative, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk, adding a touch of vanilla for flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla, swirling it into the filling before rolling for a tangy surprise.
- Berry Jam: Spread a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam over the dough before adding the filling for a fruity burst in every bite!
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Indulge your senses and elevate your meal by pairing these soft cinnamon rolls with delightful accompaniments.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries balances the sweetness perfectly, adding a bright, refreshing contrast. They serve as a beautiful garnish, enhancing both taste and presentation.
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Rich Coffee: A warm cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the richness of the cream cheese frosting and soft texture of the rolls, making for the perfect morning or afternoon treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds an extra layer of indulgence, melting into the warm rolls for a decadent dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
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Creamy Greek Yogurt: The tangy flavor of Greek yogurt offers a lighter, probiotic-rich alternative, cutting through the sweetness while adding depth and creaminess.
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Sparkling Water: A glass of bubbly sparkling water provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing finish, balancing the rolls’ rich flavors beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your rolls by drizzling melted chocolate on top, adding richness and a sweet surprise that elevates the classic cinnamon roll experience.
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Hot Cocoa: Especially delightful during colder months, a cozy cup of hot cocoa pairs well with the warm rolls—it’s like a hug in a mug that complements your scrumptious treat!
Exploring these pairings can elevate your cinnamon roll experience to extraordinary heights, making any occasion feel like a festive celebration.
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Use Bread Flour: Using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour ensures a sturdy, chewy texture that elevates your red velvet cinnamon rolls.
Watch the Rising Time: Be patient during the first rise—allow the dough to double in size for optimal flavor and texture. Rushing this step can lead to dense rolls.
Frost While Warm: For a gooey and melty cream cheese frosting, frost the rolls while they’re still warm from the oven. This creates a deliciously indulgent fusion of flavors.
Knead Properly: Ensure the dough is kneaded until it’s smooth and elastic. If it tears easily, it needs more kneading; this will give your rolls the perfect structure.
Optimize Color: Add red gel food coloring gradually until you achieve your desired hue for the dough. This will enhance the visual appeal of your red velvet cinnamon rolls.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance by rolling the dough into spirals and placing them in a greased baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy mornings. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the rolls rise in a warm spot for about 30-45 minutes until doubled in size, then bake as directed. This method ensures that your cinnamon rolls are just as delicious and gooey as if made fresh that day!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for the dough?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using bread flour. It builds structure and chewiness, which is key for those soft, gooey Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. All-purpose flour can yield softer rolls, so stick to bread flour for that perfect bite!
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How long can I store these rolls, and what’s the best method?
You can keep your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This method maintains their delightful softness. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend wrapping each roll tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them before reheating!
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cinnamon rolls, let them cool completely, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to squeeze out the excess air. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, there could be a few reasons. First, ensure your yeast is still active—if it’s expired, it won’t work. Also, the warmth of your environment matters; aim for a warm, draft-free area for the best results. If it’s too cold, try placing the dough in the oven (turned off) with just the oven light on to provide gentle warmth. Lastly, make sure you’re allowing enough time for the first rise to let the yeast do its magic.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you have allergies, be mindful that this recipe contains gluten and dairy. For a vegan option, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use non-dairy milk and cream. Additionally, ensure your butter and cream cheese replacements are suitable for your dietary needs. Always double-check labels to keep your loved ones safe!
Irresistibly Soft Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, combine bread flour and water over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, blend together milk, heavy cream, vinegar, bread flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, instant yeast, and sea salt. Add the egg, vanilla extract, tangzhong, and red gel food coloring to form a rough dough.
- Knead Dough: Gradually incorporate softened unsalted butter into the dough. Knead the mixture for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Allow the dough to rest in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 15x21 inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Form Rolls: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight spiral. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into even strips and arrange them in a parchment-lined baking pan.
- First Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm environment for about 1-2 hours, or until they have doubled in size.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the rolls for 28-35 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F-180°F, and are lightly golden on top.
- Prepare Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat cream cheese and unsalted butter in a bowl until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Frost Rolls: Once the rolls are baked and cool for about 15 minutes, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top while they are still warm, allowing it to melt into the rolls.
