Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. They bring a rich, sweet flavor and a cozy feel that makes any day feel special. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these rolls are sure to bring smiles around the table. Who wouldn’t love a warm, gooey roll topped with cream cheese frosting?

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is a breeze to whip up, even for beginner bakers. With everyday ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful treat that your family will adore. It’s perfect for when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the vibrant color adds a fun touch that makes these rolls great for special occasions or cozy weekends alike.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Making these rolls is straightforward and satisfying. You’ll mix the dough, let it rise, roll it out, and fill it with a sweet mixture before slicing. It’s a fun process that fills your home with warmth and delightful scents. Before you know it, you’ll have tender, sweet rolls ready to share.

What You Need

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls:

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
8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)

Step-by-Step

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, mix warmed milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gradually mix in the remaining flour until you have a soft dough.
Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread it with cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling tightly into a log.
Slice the log into 12 pieces and place in a greased baking dish to rise again for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
For the frosting: Beat softened cream cheese with butter; gradually add powdered sugar and milk to reach the desired consistency.
Allow rolls to cool slightly before frosting generously and serve warm.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few extras. Consider pairing them with a side of fresh fruit for a pop of color. A warm cup of coffee or tea also complements these sweet rolls perfectly. They work wonderfully for brunch gatherings or special holiday mornings.

How to Store Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

To keep your delicious rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just place the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll last for about a month. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven.

Recipe Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your yeast is fresh for a good rise.
Don’t Skip the Rise Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures fluffy rolls.
Temperature Matters: Milk should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
Freeze Extras: You can freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise. Just let them thaw and rise before baking.
Experiment: Try adding nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for a fun twist.

Variations & Swaps

Chocolate Twist: Swirl in cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor.
Nut-Free Version: Omit any nuts from the filling for a simple nut-free treat.
Lighter Option: Use a low-fat milk and reduce sugar for a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before. Just let it rise, then cover it and place it in the fridge. The next morning, let it come to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.

Can I freeze the baked rolls?
Yes, you can! Once cooled, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for about a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat them?
The microwave works well for quick reheating, but for best results, warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This keeps them soft and delicious.

What can I use instead of red food coloring?
You could use beet juice for a natural coloring option. Just keep in mind it might change the flavor slightly.

How do I avoid dense rolls?
Make sure not to over-knead the dough and let it rise until it doubles in size. This allows the yeast to do its job and creates a fluffy texture.