As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet, warm scent of cinnamon mingled with cocoa filled the air, instantly transforming my cozy space into a welcoming haven. These Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch are more than just a treat; they’re an experience that combines the classic comfort of cinnamon rolls with the whimsical twist of rich red velvet. Perfect for special occasions or simply to brighten a rainy morning, these rolls are surprisingly easy to make, offering a rewarding culinary adventure for bakers of any level. Plus, you can customize this recipe to be gluten-free or adjust the sweetness to your liking. So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and create something truly memorable?
Why Are These Cinnamon Rolls Special?
Decadent Flavor: The rich cocoa and sweet cinnamon blend create a captivating taste that elevates your typical cinnamon roll experience.
Stunning Visuals: Their vibrant red hue not only catches the eye but makes them perfect for any festive occasion.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, bakers of any skill level will find joy in creating these at home.
Customizable: Need a gluten-free option? No problem! You can easily swap ingredients to cater to various dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at brunch or a cozy gathering, these rolls are sure to be the highlight of the table. Pair them with freshly brewed coffee or tea for an irresistible combo!
If you enjoyed making these, consider trying out my delicious Sourdough Dinner Rolls next time for a different twist!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
• Get ready to bake something special!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Structure for the rolls; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to reduce for a less sugary roll.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses flavor and color; omit for classic rolls or use carob powder as a substitute.
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; can be slightly reduced but is best included.
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use a dairy-free spread for a vegan option.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients and enriches; can replace with flax eggs for vegan rolls.
- Milk – Provides moisture and activates the yeast; choose almond milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative.
- Red Food Coloring – Gives the rolls their signature hue; omit for a non-red version.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the frosting; mascarpone or Greek yogurt can lighten the recipe.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia if desired.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a wonderful depth of flavor; it’s optional but highly recommended for the best taste!
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch that everyone will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (110°F) with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is activated and ready to help your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Once frothy, add 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon of red food coloring, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 4 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface. This mixture will come together to create a delightful base for your rolls.
Step 3: Knead Dough
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on your floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. As you knead, you’ll notice the dough transforming in texture—it’s ready when it springs back when pressed gently. This step is crucial for achieving the soft, tender texture in your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough to a large, greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This rising phase allows the dough to develop flavor and makes your rolls light and fluffy.
Step 5: Shape Rolls
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 18×12 inches. Spread melted butter over the surface, then sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Gently roll it up tightly from one long side to the other, creating a log shape that will yield your delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, spacing them evenly. Cover the dish with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until noticeably puffed. This second rise will ensure your rolls are soft and fluffy once baked.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising. Once preheated, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as you want them soft and gooey.
Step 8: Frost
Once baked, allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes. In the meantime, whip together 8 oz of cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to create your frosting. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously atop the warm rolls for a melty, indulgent finish that makes these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls truly irresistible.
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
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Fresh Yeast Check: Always make sure your active dry yeast is fresh and bubbly before using. If it doesn’t foam, it won’t rise your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls properly.
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Kneading Matters: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. This step is vital for fluffy rolls; don’t rush it!
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Temperature Control: Keep the dough in a warm spot during rising. If it’s too cold, it won’t rise well; if too hot, it might kill the yeast.
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Avoid Overbaking: Watch your rolls closely as they bake. Perfectly baked rolls should be golden brown and soft; overbaking can lead to dryness.
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Creative Fillings: Don’t hesitate to add special fillings! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can bring a delightful twist to your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
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Storage Tips: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature if you have any; they stay fresh for up to 3 days. Warm them up slightly before serving!
What to Serve with Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch
Pairing your delightful rolls with complementary flavors elevates the entire experience, making every bite even more satisfying.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of berries and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the rich rolls, lightening the meal beautifully.
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Creamy Vanilla Yogurt: The smoothness of yogurt balances the sweetness, creating a perfect dip for your cinnamon rolls.
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Strong Brewed Coffee: The boldness of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the rolls, deepening those flavor connections.
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Buttery Croissant: Enjoy a flaky croissant on the side for an indulgent breakfast spread, offering different textures alongside your rolls.
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Smoothies: A berry or banana smoothie adds a refreshing and nutritious kick, perfect for a delicious morning treat.
For an ideal finish, pair these rolls with a chocolate hazelnut spread, providing a lush layer of flavor that complements the decadent cinnamon rolls beautifully.
- Lightly Sweetened Iced Tea: Refresh with a chilled floral iced tea; its subtle sweetness contrasts perfectly with the rolls’ richness.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and freshness.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Before serving, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked feel, reheat thawed rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a warm, soft bite.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and personalize these delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy delicious rolls while avoiding gluten. They can still be soft and fluffy, just like the classic version!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk. You’ll still indulge in rich and decadent flavors.
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Sweetness Tweaks: Reduce the granulated sugar in the dough or frosting to tailor the sweetness to your liking—a perfect option for those preferring less sugar!
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Chocolate Twist: Stir in chocolate chips into the filling for an even more decadent treat. These extra bits of chocolate will melt into a gooey surprise in every bite.
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Seasonal Spice: Swap unsweetened cocoa powder for pumpkin spice or apple pie spices for a seasonal twist. Just imagine the cozy aroma wafting through your kitchen!
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling. The crunchy texture adds a lovely contrast to the soft rolls, elevating each mouthful.
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Glaze Alternative: Instead of cream cheese frosting, opt for a light vanilla glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. It’ll add sweetness without the rich creaminess.
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Vegan Rolls: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based cream cheese in the frosting. Enjoy a plant-based version without losing any of the indulgent charm!
If you’re feeling adventurous with your baking, check out my delightful Art of Balancing Cinnamon and Sugar Ratio for ideas on how to enhance your holiday treats!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow all the steps up to the second rise, then cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes to rise a little more before popping them in the oven. To maintain their moisture and softness, ensure they’re wrapped well. Serve them warm, topped with cream cheese frosting, and enjoy the same fresh-baked goodness with minimal effort!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch Recipe FAQs
What kind of milk should I use for the dough?
Absolutely! You can use whole milk for the richest flavor, but feel free to substitute with almond milk or any non-dairy alternative. Just ensure it’s warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast properly.
How can I tell if my yeast is fresh?
Great question! To check if your active dry yeast is fresh, mix it with warm milk and sugar. Wait about 5-10 minutes; it should become frothy. If it doesn’t foam, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast for your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls to rise beautifully.
What’s the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong freshness, keep them in the fridge for about a week. Just remember to reheat them briefly in the microwave (about 15-20 seconds) for that warm, comforting bite!
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, individually wrap the rolls in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help them regain that soft, fluffy texture you love.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls contain gluten, eggs, and dairy, so adapt them as needed. You can use a gluten-free flour blend, flax eggs for a vegan option, and replace butter with a dairy-free spread. Always double-check product labels for allergens!
Decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (110°F) with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Once frothy, add 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon of red food coloring, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 4 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on your floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Roll the risen dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle, spread melted butter over the surface, then sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Roll it up tightly from one long side to the other.
- Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover the dish and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes. Whip together 8 oz of cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to create your frosting. Spread the cream cheese frosting on the warm rolls.
