Print

Creative Cinnamon Rolls: Red Velvet Edition

Creative Cinnamon Rolls: Red Velvet Edition

Creative Cinnamon Rolls: Red Velvet Edition combines the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with warm cinnamon spice, resulting in soft, fluffy, and visually stunning cinnamon rolls topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for special occasions, brunches, or anytime you want to impress with a unique twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk, lukewarm
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 23 tbsp red food coloring
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar

Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the buttermilk and milk mixture until lukewarm. Stir in active dry yeast and granulated sugar, and let it bloom until frothy, about 5-7 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  2. First Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
  3. Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix softened butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar in a bowl until creamy and well combined to create a fragrant filling.
  4. Roll Out and Assemble: Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly from the long side. Slice into 10-12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking pan.
  5. Second Rise: Let the assembled rolls rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
  7. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the rolls bake, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  8. Finish and Serve: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into every crevice.

Notes

  • Use lukewarm milk to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Knead the dough consistently for 8-10 minutes to develop gluten and achieve the perfect texture.
  • Don’t skip the second rise; it ensures soft, airy rolls.
  • Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for vibrant color and best flavor.
  • Spread frosting on warm rolls for a gooey, irresistible finish.
  • If dough is sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, red velvet, breakfast, cinnamon, cream cheese frosting, baked goods, brunch recipe