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Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

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Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

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If you’re looking for the perfect indulgent breakfast or dessert, these Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a dream come true. Combining the rich, velvety flavor of classic red velvet cake with the soft, gooey texture of homemade cinnamon rolls, this recipe delivers bakery-style perfection right from your own kitchen. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, every bite is sweet, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

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Whether you want to impress guests, celebrate holidays, or simply enjoy a comforting homemade pastry, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or birthdays.
  • Combines two beloved desserts: red velvet cake and cinnamon rolls.
  • Soft, fluffy, and filled with cinnamon-sugar goodness.
  • Cream cheese frosting adds the perfect finishing touch.
  • Easy to make ahead and reheat when needed.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Dough

  • All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of soft, pillowy rolls.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Essential for a fluffy rise.
  • Baking Powder: Gives an extra lift and tenderness.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness.
  • Whole Milk: Warmed to activate the yeast.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
  • Egg: Provides structure and richness.
  • Red Food Coloring: Gives the signature red velvet look.
  • Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor.

For the Filling

  • Butter: Creates a soft, gooey texture inside the rolls.
  • Brown Sugar: Brings caramel-like sweetness.
  • Ground Cinnamon: The heart of every cinnamon roll.
  • Mini Chocolate Chips (Optional): Add a decadent chocolate twist.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Cream Cheese: Rich, tangy, and creamy.
  • Butter: Blends smoothly with cream cheese for a silky texture.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor.
  • Milk: Adjusts frosting consistency.

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Tips and Tricks

  • Use warm, not hot milk to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Knead dough until smooth and elastic to achieve a perfect rise.
  • For a deeper red hue, use gel food coloring instead of liquid.
  • Don’t overbake—the rolls should stay soft and tender.
  • Frost while slightly warm so the frosting melts into the rolls.

Variations and Customizations

  • Holiday Twist: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for Christmas.
  • Nut Lover’s Version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
  • Extra Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting.
  • Vegan-Friendly: Use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cream cheese.

Pairing Suggestions

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them with:

  • A hot cup of coffee, cappuccino, or latte.
  • A glass of cold milk or hot chocolate.
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style treat.
  • Fresh berries for a refreshing balance.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store frosted rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Warm slightly before serving.
  • Freezer: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months. Defrost, warm, and frost before serving.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

2. Can I skip the red food coloring?
Absolutely. They’ll taste the same but won’t have the signature red velvet look.

3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, just skip the blooming step and mix directly with the dry ingredients.

Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Caroline

Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and vibrant, these heavenly red velvet cinnamon rolls combine the classic richness of red velvet cake with the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls — finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2–4 tbsp milk

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Rolling pin
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Sharp knife or dough cutter
  • Hand or stand mixer for frosting

Method
 

  1. Combine dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Mix together, then add remaining flour gradually. Knead until smooth, then let rise for 1–1½ hours.
  2. Mix butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a spreadable paste.
  3. Roll out dough, spread filling, sprinkle chocolate chips, and roll into a log. Slice into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
  5. Beat cream cheese and butter, add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until fluffy.
  6. Spread frosting over slightly cooled rolls and enjoy warm.

Notes

  • For more vibrant rolls, use red gel food coloring.
  • Add festive toppings like sprinkles or crushed candy canes for holidays.
  • Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but still delicious reheated.

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