Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a yummy treat for any occasion! They’re great for a cozy breakfast or a sweet dessert. I made this dessert one evening last weekend, and everyone loved it. Now it’s a favorite in our family!

I found this recipe for red velvet cinnamon rolls on Friday while watching one of the best cooking channels on YouTube. I quickly got the two ingredients I needed to make it for a family gathering we’re having later this week!You may also be interested in my Pecan Pumpkin Roll and my Strawberry Belgian Waffle recipes. For ease of browsing, you can find all of my breakfast and brunch recipes in one place.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls have the best filling! The sweet and tangy flavors go perfectly with milkshakes, making a super yummy treat.You only need simple ingredients like cinnamon, milk, and vanilla, so no need to spend a lot of money at the store.It’s like having your favorite winter pie, but you can hold it in your hand! What’s better than that? Plus, it’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy the flavor of cinnamon.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Making these rolls at home is easier than you think! With a little time and effort, you can make cinnamon rolls that taste just like they came from a bakery. Plus, they’re super fun to make with your family or friends. Please see the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the full recipe.

Directions

Step One : Make the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and red food coloring to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step Two: Prepare the Filling

1. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until it forms a spreadable paste.

Step Three : Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12×18 inches.
2. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the rolled-out dough.
3. Roll It Up: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
4. Cut the Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
5. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.

Step Four: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Step Five : Make the Frosting

1. Mix Frosting Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Frost the Rolls: Spread the frosting over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• Rolling pin
• Knife or dough cutter
• Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
• Oven

Best Tips

Use Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to help the yeast activate properly.

Don’t Overfill: Spread the filling evenly and leave a small border around the edges to prevent it from oozing out.

Chill for Easy Cutting: For cleaner slices, chill the rolled-up dough in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before cutting.

Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them. Let them come to room temperature before baking in the morning.

Storage : Store the rolls hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days.

What to Eat with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a side can make them even more special! Here are some ideas:

Hot Drinks: Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or a chai latte for a cozy treat.
Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FAQ

Can I use a different color for the rolls?
Yes! You can experiment with other food colorings for a fun twist, like blue or green for special occasions.

Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! You can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface; it just takes a bit more effort.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown and firm to the touch. You can also check if the center roll is fully cooked.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the frosting and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spreading on the rolls.

What if my yeast doesn’t foam?
If the yeast doesn’t foam in warm milk, it may be expired. Start over with fresh yeast.