Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

There is something irresistibly delightful about Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing that makes every bite feel like a cozy celebration of flavor and texture. These soft, fluffy rolls combine the rich, chocolatey notes of red velvet cake with the warm, comforting spice of cinnamon, all topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese icing. Whether you’re treating yourself to a special breakfast or sharing with loved ones, this recipe creates a perfect balance of sweetness and richness that will win hearts instantly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Fusion: The combination of red velvet and cinnamon provides a fresh twist on traditional cinnamon rolls that’s both exciting and comforting.
• Perfect Breakfast Treat: Soft, fluffy texture paired with creamy icing makes it an indulgent yet approachable way to start your day.
• Vibrant Appearance: The striking red color enhances any breakfast spread with eye-catching appeal that’s sure to impress guests.
• Family-Friendly: These rolls are a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic recipe for gatherings or weekend brunches.
• Made From Scratch: Everything is homemade, from the dough to the icing, ensuring freshness and control over every ingredient.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing lies in its straightforward, well-chosen ingredients. Each component lends a specific role, whether it’s the delicate crumb, the iconic red hue, or the smooth tang of the icing.

• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and softness.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance flavors.
• Cocoa Powder: Essential for that subtle chocolate undertone typical of red velvet.
• Red Food Coloring: Creates the characteristic vibrant red color.
• Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise to fluffy, airy perfection.
• Butter: Used in both dough and filling to add richness and moisture.
• Milk: A key ingredient to hydrate the dough and enrich flavor.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the tender crumb.
• Cinnamon: The spicy twist that warms up the filling beautifully.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness to the swirl.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the icing, delivering creamy tang and sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese icing perfectly.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors elegantly.

Variations for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your taste, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. There are many simple swaps and additions that can elevate these rolls or tailor them to your preferences.

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch and richness.
• Vegan Version: Substitute dairy and eggs with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs to create a plant-friendly treat.
• Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cloves into the cinnamon filling for a more complex spice profile.
• Berry Twist: Sprinkle dried cranberries or chopped fresh strawberries inside before rolling.
• Less Sweet Option: Cut back slightly on sugar in the dough and icing for a more subtle sweetness.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by activating your yeast in warm milk with a little sugar. In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then mix in the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and red food coloring until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Letting the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. This will ensure your rolls turn out soft and fluffy.

Step 3: Making the Filling

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. The filling should be spreadable but thick enough not to drip outside the rolls when sliced.

Step 4: Shaping the Rolls

Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the surface, then carefully roll the dough into a log. Cut into equal-sized rolls and arrange them side by side in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the arranged rolls and allow them to rise a second time for about 30-45 minutes. This extra rising phase keeps the rolls incredibly soft and airy after baking.

Step 6: Baking

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are cooked through and lightly browned on top.

Step 7: Preparing the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls bake, mix cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to taste, then generously spread over warm rolls after baking.

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

• Fresh Yeast: Always check your yeast is active and fresh to guarantee a good rise.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and butter at room temperature helps dough come together smoothly and rise better.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead just enough for elasticity; over-kneading can lead to tougher rolls.
• Even Thickness: Roll dough evenly prior to filling to ensure uniform cooking and consistent roll sizes.
• Warm Icing Application: Spread cream cheese icing on rolls while still warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped nuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top of the cream cheese icing to elevate presentation and add subtle texture.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices to cut through the richness and add a fresh, vibrant contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls stacked on a tiered cake stand for brunch or cut into bite-sized pieces to create a shareable dessert platter perfect for gatherings or celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled rolls in an airtight container, and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness without drying out.

Freezing

Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked softness and slightly melted icing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of food coloring for the red velvet color?

Yes, gel food coloring works better than liquid for vibrant color without altering dough consistency, but natural alternatives like beet juice can also be used for a milder hue.

Are these cinnamon rolls suitable for freezing before or after baking?

You can freeze them either way; freezing after baking requires reheating, while freezing the dough or shaped rolls allows you to bake fresh whenever you want.

How do I make the cream cheese icing less sweet?

Simply reduce the powdered sugar amount or add a splash of lemon juice to balance out the sweetness with a slight tang.

Can I make the dough using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but it may result in denser rolls; a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour is ideal for maintaining softness while adding nutrition.

What is the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls to keep them moist?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature or wrap tightly in plastic wrap; adding a slice of bread inside can help retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

If you want to experience a breakfast treat that feels as special as it tastes, you absolutely have to try these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing. They’re the perfect blend of tender dough, warm cinnamon spice, and luscious cream cheese sweetness that can brighten any morning or serve as a magnificent dessert. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll have found your new favorite indulgence to share and savor time and time again!

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