Print

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a show-stopping fusion of two beloved desserts: the iconic red velvet cake and the classic cinnamon roll. With their vibrant red hue, cream cheese frosting, and warm cinnamon filling, these rolls are the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Their soft, fluffy texture combined with the rich, decadent flavors will make them the centerpiece of any occasion, from holiday mornings to special celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon red gel food coloring
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Cinnamon Filling:

  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Make the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
  2. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  3. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.

Assemble the Rolls:

  1. Roll the Dough: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
  2. Cut into Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes.

Bake and Frost:

  1. Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
  2. Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
  3. Frost the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting over warm rolls before serving.

Nutrition