Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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 (for frosting).; 2-4 tbsp milk (for frosting).

Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring together the rich flavors of red velvet cake and the classic cinnamon roll, resulting in a treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. These rolls are made with a soft, fluffy red velvet dough, filled with cinnamon sugar, and baked until golden brown. The addition of mini chocolate chips is optional, but they provide an extra layer of sweetness. Topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting, these cinnamon rolls are indulgent and delicious. They’re perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to something sweet and comforting.

Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent and beautiful treat, perfect for special occasions or any time you want to indulge in something sweet. These cinnamon rolls are made with a soft, fluffy red velvet dough, filled with a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. The vibrant red color adds a festive touch, making them ideal for holidays or celebrations. The addition of mini chocolate chips is optional but adds a delightful extra layer of sweetness. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, and their irresistible combination of flavors is sure to impress.

INGREDIENTS

All-purpose flour: 3½ cups, forms the base of the dough
Granulated sugar: ¼ cup, sweetens the dough
Active dry yeast: 1 packet (2¼ tsp), helps the dough rise
Baking powder: 1 tsp, for added rise in the dough
Salt: ½ tsp, enhances the flavors
Whole milk (warmed): 1 cup, adds richness to the dough
Unsalted butter (melted): ¼ cup, for moistening the dough
Large egg: 1, for binding the dough
Red food coloring: 2 tbsp, gives the dough its vibrant color
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, adds flavor to the dough
Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup, for spreading in the filling
Brown sugar (packed): ¾ cup, sweetens the filling
Ground cinnamon: 2 tbsp, adds warmth to the filling
Mini chocolate chips (optional): ½ cup, for an extra layer of sweetness
Cream cheese (softened): 8 oz, for the frosting
Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup, for the frosting
Powdered sugar: 4 cups, sweetens the frosting
Vanilla extract: 2 tsp, flavors the frosting
Milk: 2-4 tbsp, to thin the frosting to your desired consistency

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and add the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
Step 2:: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3:: Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together to make the filling.
Step 4:: After the dough has risen, roll it out into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips if desired. Roll the dough into a log and cut it into 12 even slices.
Step 5:: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 6:: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 7:: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8:: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the frosting over them and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave before serving.
For a sweeter variation, you can drizzle melted white chocolate over the top of the frosted rolls.

Helpful Notes

If you want a more vibrant red color, you can add a bit more food coloring to the dough.
You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a quicker assembly in the morning.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Suggestion: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a deeper red velvet flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for an easy morning bake.

How do I keep the rolls soft after baking?

Store the rolls in an airtight container, and when reheating, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Summary

Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a luxurious twist on the classic cinnamon roll. Made with a rich red velvet dough, these rolls are filled with cinnamon sugar and baked to perfection. The soft, fluffy texture is complemented by the sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting spread generously on top. For those who want a little extra indulgence, mini chocolate chips can be added to the filling. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, and are sure to impress with their beautiful crimson color and delicious flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect indulgence.