Whether you’re looking to add a splash of color to your brunch table or seeking a special treat for a festive occasion, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are sure to impress. Combining the luxurious flavor of red velvet cake with the comforting warmth of a cinnamon roll, these bakes are a creative twist on two classic favorites. Topped with a luscious cream cheese icing, each roll is a delightful indulgence. Follow this simple guide to create your own batch of these irresistible treats.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring (or to desired color)
Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Icing:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk in a large bowl.
- Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, vinegar, cocoa powder, 2 cups flour, salt, and red food-coloring. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add remaining flour to form a soft dough. Knead until elastic, about 5-10 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Shape the Rolls:
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to a 16×21-inch rectangle.
- Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll up dough tightly and cut into 12 rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes.
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden.
Prepare the Icing:
- Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add milk as needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
- Spread icing over warm rolls before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Each roll approximately contains 380 calories.
Tips
- For a deeper red color, adjust the amount of food coloring based on the brand’s intensity.
- Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before applying the icing so it doesn’t melt completely into the rolls.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, cover it tightly, and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
Q2: How do I keep my cinnamon rolls from drying out after baking?
A2: To keep the rolls moist, cover them with foil once they are out of the oven to trap moisture until ready to serve.
Q3: Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
A3: Absolutely! Bake the rolls and allow them to cool completely. Wrap them individually and freeze. Thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave, then apply the icing before serving.
Q4: What’s the best way to cut the rolls?
A4: Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squishing the dough.
Chef’s Advice
For an extra touch of decadence, try drizzling your rolls with a little melted chocolate or sprinkling them with crushed pecans before baking. This not only adds texture but also enhances the flavors, making your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls even more irresistible. Remember, the beauty of these rolls lies in their rich color and velvety texture, so don’t hesitate to indulge in a little extra creativity to make them truly special.
- Inspiration: The idea of combining the rich flavors of red velvet cake with the classic structure of a cinnamon roll is inspired. It’s a creative culinary twist that marries two beloved treats into one decadent dessert, showcasing how traditional recipes can be transformed with a little imagination.
- Ingredient Selection: Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for achieving the desired outcome. For instance, the type of cocoa powder can affect both the color and flavor of the rolls, while the quality of the yeast will influence the rise and texture of the dough.
- Dough Preparation: The process of making dough serves as the foundation of many baking recipes. The success of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls heavily relies on the dough being soft and elastic, which requires precise mixing and kneading to develop the gluten just right.
- Flavoring: The unique flavor of red velvet is not just about visual appeal but also about taste. The slight cocoa flavor, enriched with vanilla and a hint of vinegar, creates a subtle but complex base that compleases with the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the butter.
- The Rise: Yeast-leavened breads, like these cinnamon rolls, need time to rise. This not only improves the texture but also enhances the flavors. The fermentation process is where patience pays off, leading to light, fluffy rolls that are soft to the touch.
- Filling: The filling of brown sugar and cinnamon is what gives these rolls their name. The contrast between the sweet, spicy cinnamon and the rich dough creates layers of flavor that are deeply satisfying. The soft butter helps spread the filling evenly, ensuring every bite is as good as the last.
- Rolling and Cutting: The technique of rolling the dough tightly and cutting it into even pieces is essential for the aesthetic of the rolls. It ensures that each roll cooks uniformly and has a beautiful spiral of cinnamon-sugar.
- Baking: The baking process is where all elements come together. The oven’s heat works to expand the gas bubbles created by the yeast, setting the structure of the rolls and caramelizing the sugar in the filling, which results in a deliciously sticky, sweet coating.
- Icing: The cream cheese icing is more than just a topping; it’s an integral part of the flavor profile. It adds a creamy texture that complements the denseness of the rolls and balances the sweetness with a slight tang.
- Presentation: The final presentation can make a big difference in how the rolls are received. The vibrant red color, enhanced by the icing, makes these cinnamon rolls not just a treat for the palate but also for the eyes.
Conclusion
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls exemplify the magic that happens when traditional baking meets modern innovation. Each step in the preparation process, from mixing the dough to applying the icing, is a testament to the art and science of baking. These rolls not only deliver on flavor and texture but also bring a touch of elegance to any table. They are perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply adding a bit of luxury to an ordinary day. With each bite, they offer a reminder of how classic recipes can be transformed into new favorites with creativity and care.