Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: A Decadent Delight
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of sweetness and spice. These delightful rolls not only look stunning but also taste heavenly. The rich red hue, combined with the warm scent of cinnamon, creates a treat that is ideal for breakfast or dessert. Whether you are hosting a special brunch or simply want to indulge in something sweet, these cinnamon rolls will surely impress.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk, warmed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Red food coloring (about 1 tablespoon)
For the Filling:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes foamy. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and red food coloring into the bowl. Gradually add flour while mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for about eight to ten minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about one hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While waiting for the dough to rise, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately twelve by eighteen inches.
Step 5: Add Filling
Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the butter layer.
Step 6: Roll Up the Dough
Starting from one long edge of the rectangle, roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch seams to seal well.
Step 7: Cut into Rolls
Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into twelve equal pieces. Place them in a greased baking dish with some space between each roll.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and allow them to rise again for about thirty minutes until they puff up slightly.
Step 9: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to375°F (190°C) while your rolls are rising.
Step 10: Bake
Once preheated, bake your cinnamon rolls for twenty-five to thirty minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
Step 11: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
While rolls are baking, prepare frosting by beating softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing until creamy.
Step 12: Frost Rolls
Once baked rolls have slightly cooled for about ten minutes, generously spread cream cheese frosting over each roll while they are still warm.
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls will become an instant favorite among family and friends. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven while they are soft and gooey! Perfect for any occasion or simply as an indulgent treat at home. You can even make them ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve!
Remember to save this recipe so you can recreate these delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls whenever you’re craving something sweet!
Tips and tricks
To make the perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, follow these essential tips. First, use buttermilk for a richer flavor and tender texture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This will give your dough the acidity it needs to rise properly.
Next, ensure your yeast is fresh. Active dry yeast should be stored in the refrigerator and used before its expiration date to guarantee fluffy rolls. When mixing your dough, avoid over-kneading; just enough until it’s smooth and elastic will do.
For the classic red velvet color, use high-quality cocoa powder. It will enhance both color and flavor, making your rolls even more irresistible. Lastly, allow your rolls to rise in a warm spot. A good tip is to preheat your oven for a few minutes and then turn it off before placing the dough inside to rise.
FAQs
What are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, featuring a rich red color from cocoa powder and red food coloring. They are soft and fluffy with a signature cream cheese frosting that adds sweetness and tanginess. These rolls make for an impressive breakfast or dessert option that combines the flavors of classic red velvet cake with the comforting appeal of cinnamon rolls.
How do I store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
To store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, first allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or place them in a warm oven until heated through.
Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time! Prepare the dough and shape the rolls as directed in the recipe. Instead of baking them immediately, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as instructed. This allows the rolls to rise properly for that perfect, fluffy texture.
These delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring together rich flavors and stunning visuals that are sure to impress anyone who tries them. The combination of soft dough infused with cocoa powder and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting makes this recipe irresistible. Whether served at brunch or as a special treat, these cinnamon rolls will become a favorite indulgence in your home.