Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Short Description

These Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring soft, pillowy red velvet dough swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is tender and melts in your mouth.
• Rich, Velvety Flavor: A unique twist with a hint of cocoa and signature red velvet taste.
• Perfectly Spiced Filling: The cinnamon-sugar mixture balances sweetness and warmth.
• Decadent Cream Cheese Frosting: Smooth, tangy, and irresistibly creamy.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Warm milk
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Egg
• Red food coloring
• Vanilla extract

Cinnamon Filling

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter, softened

Cream Cheese Frosting

• Cream cheese, softened
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy cream or milk

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit until foamy.
   • Mix flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
   • Add melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the yeast mixture.
   • Gradually add dry ingredients and knead until a soft dough forms.
   • Cover and let rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
2. Make the Cinnamon Filling:
   • Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
   • Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
   • Spread the filling evenly and roll the dough tightly.
   • Cut into equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish.
   • Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Prepare the Frosting:
   • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
   • Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until creamy.
   • Spread over warm rolls.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let cool slightly before serving.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling.
• Extra Spice: Add nutmeg or cardamom for deeper flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw and warm before frosting.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

What type of cocoa powder should I use?

Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best red velvet flavor.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Ensure your yeast is active and your milk is warm (but not too hot).

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Reduce the rise time slightly as instant yeast works faster.

How do I get vibrant red color?

Use gel food coloring for a richer hue.

Can I make these without food coloring?

Yes! The taste remains the same, just without the red hue.

How do I make them extra soft?

Don’t overbake—check for doneness around 20 minutes.

Can I use a different frosting?

Yes! Try vanilla glaze or chocolate frosting.

What’s the best way to slice the dough?

Use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Can I add cream to the baking dish?

Yes! Pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking makes them extra gooey.

Conclusion

These Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of decadence and warmth, making every bite pure bliss. Whether for a holiday treat or a weekend indulgence, they’re sure to impress. Try them today and experience the magic of red velvet and cinnamon combined!

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