Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you have a soft spot for classic cinnamon rolls but crave something with a vibrant twist, you are absolutely going to love making these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These rolls boast the perfect balance of tender, fluffy dough infused with that unexpected hint of cocoa and rich red color, all wrapped around a warm, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling. Finished off with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, they create a delightful experience that turns an ordinary breakfast into a festive celebration. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this recipe brings a cozy, indulgent vibe to your kitchen like no other.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create such a stunning batch of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Each item plays its own unique role, from the cocoa powder adding a touch of depth to the dough, to the cream cheese frosting delivering that irresistible creamy finish.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and softness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness throughout the dough.
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): Essential for that fluffy, airy rise.
• 1/2 cup whole milk (warm): Brings moisture and tenderness to the dough.
• 1/2 cup water (warm): Activates the yeast and balances dough consistency.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Keeps the dough rich and moist.
• 2 large eggs: Provide richness and help bind the dough.
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a subtle chocolate depth and enhances the red color.
• 1 tbsp red food coloring: The star for that iconic red velvet hue.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The base of the luscious frosting with tangy sweetness.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened for frosting): Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Brings warmth and depth to the frosting flavor.
• Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened for filling): Creates a buttery layer inside the rolls.
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully inside the filling.
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: The classic spice that fills each bite with warmth.
• 1/2 tsp salt (for filling): Enhances all the flavors in the filling.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by mixing the warm milk and water in a bowl, creating the perfect cozy environment to awaken the yeast. Add in the packet of active dry yeast and let it sit until it becomes frothy and bubbly, which shows the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in the dough.

Step 2: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt to make sure everything is evenly distributed. Then add the eggs, softened butter, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and the frothy yeast mixture. Stir everything until just combined, giving you the base for that iconic red velvet dough.

Step 3: Knead and Let the Dough Rise

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently for 5 to 10 minutes. You want the dough to become smooth and elastic, which guarantees soft, pillowy rolls later on. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about an hour until it doubles in size, bringing lightness and airiness to every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough is rising, mix the softened butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. This combination will become a sweet and spicy swirl that melts perfectly into each roll, making every bite a cozy delight.

Step 5: Roll Out and Add Filling

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface, ensuring each inch has a buttery, sugary layer that will ooze out deliciously when baked.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough tightly from one edge to form a long log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal parts. These spirals will reveal the signature swirls of cinnamon filling and vibrant red dough, promising beauty and flavor with every roll.

Step 7: Second Rise and Baking

Place the rolls into a greased baking dish with a little space between them, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes for that final puff. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for around 25 minutes until golden brown on top but still soft and tender inside.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to create a luscious frosting that balances tang and sweetness perfectly.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Once the rolls come out of the oven, let them cool just slightly so the frosting can melt into every nook and cranny. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls and get ready for an indulgent treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for an added touch of elegance and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors in the rolls perfectly.

Side Dishes

Enjoy these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or a cold glass of milk. Pairing them with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness and keep the meal well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cinnamon rolls in individual ramekins for a cozy, personalized touch or stack them high on a rustic wooden board to make an impressive centerpiece for weekend brunch with friends and family. You could even drizzle extra cream cheese frosting in fun patterns to wow your guests visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though that might be a challenge), store your cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh enough to enjoy another day without losing that heavenly texture.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently before frosting to recapture that fresh-baked feeling.

Reheating

Reheat your rolls in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds or in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. Add a little extra cream cheese frosting afterward to revive that first-bite creaminess and enjoy them almost as fresh as when they came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for these cinnamon rolls?

All-purpose flour is preferred here because it strikes the right balance between gluten content and tenderness. Using bread flour might make the rolls chewier, while cake flour could result in a crumbly texture. For the best Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe outcome, stick with all-purpose flour.

Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

The red food coloring is what gives these rolls their signature red velvet look, making them visually stunning. If you prefer a natural alternative, you could try beet juice or powder, but the intensity of color might vary slightly.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! You can let the dough rise in the refrigerator overnight after the first knead. This slow rise can even enhance the flavor. Just be sure to take it out to come to room temperature before rolling it out and adding the filling.

What makes the cream cheese frosting so special for this recipe?

The cream cheese frosting adds a perfect tangy balance to the sweet and spicy cinnamon rolls, cutting through the richness and complementing the subtle cocoa notes in the dough. It’s that finishing touch that turns these rolls into a truly indulgent experience.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling?

Definitely! Toasted pecans or walnuts bring a wonderful crunch and depth, while mini chocolate chips add melty pockets of sweetness. Just sprinkle them over the cinnamon filling before you roll up the dough for extra deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into freshly baked Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, where the vibrant colors meet decadent flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is my go-to for bringing instant smiles to the breakfast table, and I truly encourage you to give it a try. Once you do, these rolls might just become your new favorite way to celebrate those special mornings or whenever you need a little homemade happiness.

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