why make this recipe
Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the best of two worlds: the classic soft, sweet flavor of cinnamon rolls and the rich, vibrant taste of red velvet cake. These rolls are perfect for celebrations, brunches, or simply to brighten up your day. With a creamy frosting on top, they are sure to impress your family and friends.
how to make Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. If you like, add the mini chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Step 3: Roll and Assemble
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into even pieces.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for about 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly golden.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top while they are warm. Let them cool slightly, then serve them warm.
how to serve Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Serve these rolls warm for a delightful breakfast or as a dessert. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also sprinkle some extra mini chocolate chips or nuts on top for added texture and flavor before serving.
how to store Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
To store leftover rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at low heat.
tips to make Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Make sure your milk is warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough well for a fluffy texture.
- If you want extra richness, add more chocolate chips or nuts to the filling.
- Don’t skip the second rise; it’s important for the rolls to be light and fluffy.
variation
For a twist, try adding some different flavors to the filling, such as nuts, dried fruit, or even a splash of almond extract for a unique taste. You could also use a different color of food coloring for a fun presentation.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking.
2. Can I use different types of flour?
You can try whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. All-purpose flour will yield the best results.
3. Is it necessary to use the food coloring?
While the red food coloring gives the rolls their signature look, you can skip it if you prefer a classic cinnamon roll taste without the color.
Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful red velvet cinnamon rolls that combine sweet cinnamon flavors with rich red velvet cake, topped with creamy frosting.
Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Optionally, add mini chocolate chips.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll out into a large rectangle.
- Spread the filling evenly over the dough and roll tightly into a log. Slice into even pieces.
- Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden.
- While baking, make the frosting by beating cream cheese and butter. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to reach desired consistency.
- Once rolls are out of the oven, spread the frosting generously on top while warm. Let cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.