red velvet cinnamon rolls recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best red velvet cinnamon rolls recipe

I have been making these red velvet cinnamon rolls for years and they are always a hit with my family. My kids love the rich red color and the sweet cream cheese frosting, and I love how they combine two classic treats into one amazing recipe. They are perfect for a special weekend breakfast or a holiday brunch, and they are surprisingly easy to make. Plus, the cocoa powder adds a touch of antioxidants, so I feel a little better about serving them for breakfast.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

4.8 from 627 votes

These soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls have a gorgeous red velvet color and are swirled with a buttery cinnamon sugar filling. Topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, they are a showstopping treat for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 55 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
1 large egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp red food coloring

For the Filling

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and the yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, remaining sugar, and salt.
3Add the yeast mixture, egg, melted butter, and red food coloring to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
6Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the butter.
7Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal rolls.
8Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 45 minutes.
9Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, until they are lightly golden and cooked through.
10While the rolls bake, make the frosting. Beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until creamy.
11Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes, then spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
Rolling pin
9×13 inch baking dish
Plastic wrap
Sharp knife or dental floss

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 65g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 35g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For the best red velvet color, use a gel food coloring. You can also make the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator.

Watch Video Of How Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Works

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are always a good idea, whether for a holiday morning or a casual Sunday breakfast. They bring a fun twist to a classic favorite and are sure to impress your family and friends. I hope you enjoy making and eating them as much as I do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Can I use a different type of food coloring?

Yes, you can use liquid or gel food coloring. Gel coloring is more concentrated and will give you a deeper red color without adding too much liquid.

2. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the rolls, place them in the baking dish, and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

3. Why did my dough not rise?

Make sure your milk is warm, not hot. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast. Also, check the expiration date on your yeast to make sure it is still active.

4. Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled rolls without the frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then add the frosting.

5. What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

A simple vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar and milk would also work well. Or you can use a buttercream frosting for a sweeter option.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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