Delight in the perfect fusion of decadence and comfort with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. These rolls combine the rich, velvety essence of red velvet cake with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls, creating a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend breakfast.
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls start with a vibrant, red velvet dough that sets them apart from traditional cinnamon rolls. The dough is enriched with warm milk, active dry yeast, and a touch of granulated sugar, which helps to create a soft and tender texture. The addition of red food coloring gives the dough its signature deep red hue, making these rolls as visually appealing as they are tasty. The dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic, ensuring a perfect rise and a tender crumb.
The filling is a delicious blend of softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This mixture is spread generously over the rolled-out dough, creating a sweet and spicy layer that infuses each bite with rich, cinnamon flavor. As the rolls bake, the filling caramelizes slightly, adding a delightful sweetness and a touch of gooeyness that complements the soft, fluffy dough.
Once baked, the rolls are topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting that adds a luscious, tangy contrast to the sweet cinnamon filling. The frosting is made from a simple combination of softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, whipped until smooth and spreadable. This frosting not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful, glossy finish to the rolls, making them even more irresistible.
Preparing these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls involves several steps: starting with activating the yeast, mixing and kneading the dough, rolling it out, and spreading the filling. After rolling the dough into a log and slicing it into individual rolls, they are baked until golden brown. The result is a batch of rolls with a tender, slightly chewy texture and a rich, sweet flavor that’s perfect for indulging.
One of the highlights of these rolls is their versatility. They are ideal for special occasions such as holidays, brunches, or even as a luxurious treat for a weekend morning. Their stunning red color and creamy frosting make them a standout addition to any dessert table or breakfast spread. Additionally, they can be prepared in advance and stored, making them a convenient option for busy mornings or gatherings.
To ensure the best results, here are a few tips:
- Yeast Activation: Ensure the milk used is warm, around 110°F (45°C), to properly activate the yeast without killing it. The mixture should become frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not overly wet. Adjust the flour or milk as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Even Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform rolls. Use a rolling pin and flour to prevent sticking.
- Frosting Application: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before applying the cream cheese frosting to prevent it from melting and running off.
In summary, Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on a classic treat, blending the rich flavors of red velvet cake with the warm, comforting goodness of cinnamon rolls. With their vibrant color, gooey filling, and creamy frosting, these rolls are sure to impress and satisfy. Whether enjoyed for a special occasion or as a decadent treat, they promise a memorable and indulgent experience with every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, egg, and red food coloring. Mix well.
- Add the frothy yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
- Gradually add 3 ½ cups of flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour if necessary, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 12×18 inches (30×45 cm).
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Shape the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the seam to seal it. Cut the roll into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and Serve:
- Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. Serve and enjoy!
Tips:
- Yeast Activation: Make sure the milk is warm but not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (45°C).
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a small amount of milk.
- Even Rolling: Roll the dough as evenly as possible to ensure uniform rolls. Use a rolling pin and flour to prevent sticking.
- Frosting: For an extra touch, you can sprinkle the frosted rolls with a bit of cocoa powder or additional red sprinkles before serving.
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining the classic flavors with the rich, vibrant essence of red velvet cake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these rolls are sure to impress with their tender, flavorful dough and decadent cream cheese frosting. Enjoy the luxurious taste and stunning presentation of this irresistible baked good!
