Print

Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Delight in the Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, a unique fusion of red velvet cake’s rich, velvety flavor with warm cinnamon swirls. These soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls are topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, offering a perfect treat for cozy mornings, brunch, or special occasions. Featuring vibrant red spirals and a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, they are sure to become your favorite indulgence to share with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup whole milk (lukewarm)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling Ingredients

  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk until lukewarm and dissolve the yeast and granulated sugar in it. Let it proof for about 5 minutes until bubbly. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients and the activated yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Knead the mixture until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  2. Roll and Add Filling: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 12×16 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture generously on top. Carefully roll up the dough tightly from the long edge, pinching the seam to seal.
  3. Cut and Second Rise: Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them into a greased baking pan, leaving room for expansion. Cover with a clean towel and allow the rolls to rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy and soft.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on the edges and fully cooked through. Avoid overbaking to maintain softness.
  5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While baking, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and fluffy. Once the rolls have cooled slightly after baking, generously spread the frosting over the top to ensure every bite has a sweet and tangy finish.

Notes

  • Activate the yeast properly by using milk that is warm but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Do not add too much flour during kneading, as excess flour results in dense rolls. Follow the recommended amounts for a soft and airy dough.
  • Roll the dough tightly but gently to ensure even cinnamon swirls and allow room for rising.
  • Never skip the second rise; it is essential for fluffy and tender rolls.
  • Serve the cinnamon rolls warm for the best flavor and texture, allowing the frosting to melt slightly into the layers.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls, red velvet recipe, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon sugar swirl, breakfast rolls, brunch recipe, sweet rolls