Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The recipe takes traditional cinnamon rolls to the next level by incorporating red velvet flavors, with a hint of cocoa and the signature vibrant red color. Each roll is filled with a rich, buttery cinnamon filling, creating a soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Topped with a creamy cream cheese icing, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for festive gatherings or weekend brunches.

INGREDIENTS

• Warm Milk: 1 cup at 110°F, to activate the yeast and add moisture
• Active Dry Yeast: 2 ¼ tsp, to help the dough rise
• Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup, for sweetness in the dough
• Melted Butter: ¼ cup, for richness and softness in the dough
• Egg and Egg Yolk: 1 large egg plus 1 yolk at room temperature, for structure and richness
• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups, to form the dough
• Cocoa Powder: 1 tbsp, for the classic red velvet flavor
• Salt: 1 tsp, to balance the sweetness
• Red Food Coloring: 1 tsp, to give the dough its signature red hue
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened, for the cinnamon filling
• Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed, for sweetness in the filling
• Ground Cinnamon: 2 tbsp, for flavor in the filling
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened, for the icing
• Powdered Sugar: 1 ½ cups, to sweeten the icing
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp, for flavor in the icing
• Milk: 2-3 tbsp, to adjust the icing consistency

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and egg yolk, then add the yeast mixture. Mix in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and red food coloring until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 3:

In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 4:

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Roll up the dough tightly from one of the long edges and cut into 1 ½ to 2-inch slices. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.

Step 5:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until lightly golden on top. Let cool slightly.

Step 6:

In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined. Gradually add milk to reach desired consistency.

Step 7:

Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fresh taste.

Helpful Notes

• Adding a pinch of salt to the icing can balance sweetness.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Use high-quality cocoa powder to enhance the red velvet flavor.

Enjoy the Rich and Comforting Flavor of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine a visually stunning red hue with the familiar comfort of cinnamon and cream cheese flavors. A perfect treat for a leisurely brunch or as a delightful dessert.

FAQs

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be made the night before and refrigerated. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

You can omit the food coloring, although the rolls won’t have the signature red hue of red velvet.

How do I prevent the rolls from becoming dry?

Be careful not to overbake, and cover with foil if the tops are browning too quickly.

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Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing elevate traditional cinnamon rolls by adding a red velvet twist. The dough, colored and subtly flavored with cocoa, is filled with a sweet cinnamon mixture and then rolled to perfection. Once baked, they are topped with a creamy cream cheese icing that melts into every layer, providing a rich and decadent finish. Ideal for breakfasts, brunches, or special treats, these cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and deliciously indulgent. The red velvet hue adds a festive and elegant touch, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want to make breakfast extraordinary.