The moment that crisp winter air hints at the holidays, I find myself longing for that special touch of festivity in my kitchen. That’s when I whip up my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls—an enchanting twist on the classic treat that marries the rich flavor of cocoa with the warm embrace of cinnamon. These rolls bring not just beautiful color to your holiday table, but also promise an easy, homemade indulgence that’s perfect for Christmas morning. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously soft and fluffy treat that will delight family and friends, helping you celebrate the season in style. Are you ready to sprinkle a bit of magic into your baking? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Perfect?
Festive Cheer: These vibrant rolls instantly elevate any holiday breakfast, creating a joyful atmosphere around your table.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you don’t have to be a baking expert to achieve impressive results.
Decadent Flavor: The warm cinnamon filling mixed with a rich cocoa base makes each bite a delightful experience that you won’t soon forget.
Homemade Delight: There’s nothing like the aroma of freshly baked Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls wafting through your home, filling hearts and bellies with warmth.
Crowd-Pleaser: With their stunning red hue and deliciously soft texture, these rolls are sure to be a hit at every festive gathering. Try pairing them with Spiced Cinnamon Rolls for a delightful brunch spread!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
• Discover the key components of these delightful rolls.
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; you can use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Instant Yeast – Causes the dough to rise; active dry yeast can be substituted but must be activated in warm milk.
- Warm Milk (110°F) – Hydrates the dough and activates yeast; ensure it’s warm, not hot, to prevent killing the yeast.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast; can be replaced with alternative sweeteners if desired.
- Unsalted Butter – Contributes to the rolls’ flaky texture; for a dairy-free version, substitute with plant-based butter.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough; essential for yeast function.
- Large Egg – Helps bind ingredients and enriches dough; omit for vegan versions or use a flax egg as a substitute.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides the subtle chocolate flavor unique to red velvet; can be omitted for a simpler cinnamon roll.
- Red Food Coloring – Gives the distinctive red hue; gel food coloring is recommended for deeper color.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tanginess; replace with a mixture of vinegar and milk (1 tablespoon vinegar in 1 cup milk).
For the Filling
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth and moisture to the filling; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Ground Cinnamon – Provides warm spice flavor; adjust amounts based on preference.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Used for the glaze, adding sweetness; adjust consistency with milk.
- Milk – For the glaze; use more or less depending on desired thickness of glaze.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
These ingredients combine to create the enchanting Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls that will elevate your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate Yeast
Warm your milk to 110°F and pour it into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the instant yeast and granulated sugar, gently stirring to combine. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that your yeast is alive and ready to create fluffy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 2: Make Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and red food coloring until evenly combined. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the melted butter, egg, and buttermilk. Mix until a soft dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and set aside in a warm area. Allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size and feels soft and puffy—this is essential for those delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 4: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by combining brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until fully combined. This aromatic filling will add the perfect sweet spice to your rolls, enhancing their flavor and warmth when you bite into your homemade Red Velvet treats.
Step 5: Roll Out Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 15×10 inches in size. Spread a generous layer of softened butter across the surface, then evenly sprinkle the prepared filling mixture. The vibrant red hue of your dough will shine through, promising deliciousness!
Step 6: Shape Rolls
Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Once fully rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the cut rolls on their sides in a greased baking dish, ensuring that they are closely packed together for a beautiful presentation.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover your baking dish with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-40 minutes. They should become puffed and airy, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. This essential second rise will help create the light and fluffy texture we love in Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls are rising. Once preheated, bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma wafting from the oven—it’s almost time for warm cinnamon roll magic!
Step 9: Prepare Glaze
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired glaze consistency. Soon your freshly baked Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls will be ready for this sweet finishing touch!
Step 10: Glaze and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before drizzling the glaze generously over the warm rolls. The glaze will melt slightly, creating a beautiful and sweet layer on top. Serve immediately, savoring the holiday flavors and the joy of homemade goodness with each bite!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: Delightful Variations
Let your creativity shine as you explore fun ways to customize these delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter and replace buttermilk with a vinegar and non-dairy milk blend to make this recipe completely dairy-free.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to delight gluten-sensitive friends and family while still enjoying the festive flavors!
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Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough. The added texture offers a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Cocoa Swap: For those who want a little less chocolate, consider omitting the cocoa powder for a classic cinnamon roll flavor that’s just as delicious. These will be cozy comfort rolls, perfect alongside a hot cup of cocoa.
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Bourbon-Infused Glaze: Add a touch of bourbon to your glaze for an elegant twist. This addition enhances the flavor complexity and gives your rolls a warm kick, turning them into a sophisticated treat!
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Cream Cheese Swirl: Before rolling the dough, spread a layer of softened cream cheese on top of the butter. This creates an irresistibly creamy center that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Spiced Cinnamon Rolls: Include a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom in the filling for an extra dimension of flavor. These warming spices enhance the festive aroma and taste of your rolls.
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Chocolate Drizzle Rolls: For an indulgent finish, drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze. This chocolaty touch will elevate your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls to a new level of decadence!
With so many options, you’ll find endless joy in creating variations of these delicious rolls. Want to add even more sweet flavors to your breakfast table? Try pairing them with delightful options like Soft Cardamom Rolls with Berries or Cottage Cheese Rolls for a well-rounded brunch experience!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
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Perfect Yeast Activation: Always use warm milk (110°F) to activate your yeast. Too hot will kill it, while too cold will fail to activate it.
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Don’t Rush Rises: Never skip the second rise! It ensures your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are light and fluffy, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love.
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Use Gel Food Coloring: For a vibrant red hue, opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid. You’ll achieve a deeper color without compromising the dough’s texture.
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Cool Before Glazing: Allow the rolls to cool for about 5 minutes before drizzling on the glaze. This helps it set perfectly without just sliding off.
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Knead with Care: Knead the dough just enough, about 7-8 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Imagine the sweet aroma of freshly baked rolls filling your home, inviting family and friends to gather and share in the joy of the season.
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Peppermint Hot Cocoa: This warm, chocolatey drink perfectly complements the rich flavors of the rolls, creating a cozy holiday experience.
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Scrambled Eggs with Herbs: Light and fluffy eggs add a savory balance, making your breakfast spread feel complete and satisfying.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant seasonal fruits introduces a refreshing element, cutting through the sweetness and adding a burst of color.
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Maple Bacon: The savory, crispy sweetness of bacon pairs perfectly with the cinnamon rolls, creating a delectable contrast that pleases the palate.
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Cream Cheese Icing: For even more decadence, drizzle a tangy cream cheese icing over your rolls to enhance the flavor harmony.
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Holiday Mimosas: These festive drinks made with orange juice and sparkling wine add a bubbly cheerfulness to your brunch, making the occasion feel even more special.
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Spiced Tea: Warm spices in a nice cup of tea bring out the cinnamon notes in the rolls, creating an aromatic and comforting pairing.
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Cinnamon Apple Compote: A sweet, warm apple topping infused with spices can elevate each bite, adding a lovely texture that everyone will enjoy.
These delightful pairings will help turn your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls into the centerpiece of an unforgettable festive meal!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Fridge: Place cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven before glazing.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate. On the morning you wish to serve them, bring them to room temperature and bake fresh—they’ll taste just as delightful!
Reheating: To enjoy leftover rolls, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or place in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. After shaping, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply let them rise at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes before popping them in the oven. To maintain their quality, ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out. You can also freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months, then bake directly from the freezer after an extended rise. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy delightful, homemade Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls without the morning stress!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
You can use all-purpose flour, which is perfect for structure. If you prefer a chewier texture, I recommend using bread flour instead. Both types will yield gorgeous, fluffy rolls that everyone will love!
How should I store my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for just a few seconds to enjoy that soft, fresh-from-the-oven feel.
Can I freeze Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! For optimal freshness, freeze unglazed rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven before glazing. Just watch for that sweet aroma to fill your kitchen again!
What if my rolls didn’t rise properly?
If your rolls didn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your milk is 110°F; too hot or too cold can affect yeast activation. If you notice dark spots on the dough, that indicates yeast may have perished. Always test the yeast in warm water with sugar first if you’re unsure.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! To make them vegan, simply omit the egg and replace dairy ingredients with plant-based options, such as plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water). For gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and check for appropriate ratios, since different blends will yield different results in texture.
How should I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
For a make-ahead option, prepare the dough through the second rise, then cover tightly and refrigerate. On the morning of serving, allow them to come to room temperature, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll wake up to warm, fresh-baked Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls—pure bliss!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: Festive Sweetness for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm your milk to 110°F and pour it into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the instant yeast and granulated sugar, gently stirring to combine. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and red food coloring until evenly combined. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the melted butter, egg, and buttermilk. Mix until a soft dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough into a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and set aside in a warm area. Allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by combining brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until fully combined.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 15x10 inches in size. Spread a generous layer of softened butter across the surface, then evenly sprinkle the prepared filling mixture.
- Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the cut rolls on their sides in a greased baking dish.
- Cover your baking dish with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls are rising. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired glaze consistency.
- Allow the rolls to cool for about 5 minutes before drizzling the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.