Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: Your Weekend Baking Just Got an Upgrade

3 min read 05-01-2025

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: Your Weekend Baking Just Got an Upgrade

Meta Description: Indulge in the decadent deliciousness of red velvet cinnamon rolls! This recipe elevates classic cinnamon rolls with a rich, tangy red velvet twist. Get the recipe and impress your family with these show-stopping weekend treats. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion. Learn how to make the fluffiest, most flavorful red velvet cinnamon rolls you've ever tasted!

Introduction: A Red Velvet Twist on a Classic

Cinnamon rolls. Just the words conjure up images of cozy mornings and warm, comforting smells. But what if we told you we could upgrade your weekend baking routine with a vibrant, intensely flavorful twist? Introducing red velvet cinnamon rolls, a decadent delight that elevates the classic to new heights. These aren't your grandma's cinnamon rolls; they're richer, more intensely flavored, and guaranteed to impress. Prepare for a weekend baking experience like no other!

Why Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Red velvet cake is already a beloved classic, known for its unique tangy flavor and vibrant red hue. Combining that with the comforting goodness of a cinnamon roll creates a truly exceptional treat. The red velvet batter adds a depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and spice.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses standard baking ingredients, with a few key additions for that signature red velvet flavor. You'll need:

For the Red Velvet Dough:

1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon white vinegar
4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

For the Cinnamon Filling:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Making the Red Velvet Dough:

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar. Whisk well.
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed.
Add softened butter and continue kneading until incorporated.
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Preparing the Cinnamon Filling:

In a medium bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.

3. Assembling the Rolls:

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12x18 inches).
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log.
Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

4. Baking the Rolls:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until light and fluffy.

6. Frosting and Serving:

Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting generously with the cream cheese frosting.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls:

Don't skip the vinegar: It helps activate the red food coloring and gives the rolls a subtle tang.
Use good quality cocoa powder: For the richest flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
Let the dough rise properly: This is crucial for achieving soft and fluffy rolls.
Don't overbake: Overbaked rolls will be dry.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling the day before, and assemble the rolls in the morning. Just let them rise again before baking.

Q: Can I freeze these rolls?

A: Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls, frosted or unfrosted, for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Weekend with Red Velvet

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to upgrade your weekend baking. The combination of the rich red velvet flavor and the classic cinnamon roll is truly irresistible. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake up a batch of these decadent delights. Your family and friends will thank you! Enjoy!