Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

If you have a soft spot for sweet, tender baked goods with a splash of color and a cinnamon twist, you are absolutely going to love making this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe. These rolls are not just your ordinary cinnamon rolls – they’re a celebration of rich red velvet flavor married with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and cocoa, wrapped in fluffy dough that practically melts in your mouth. From the tantalizing red hue to the luscious cream cheese frosting, every bite feels like a hug in dessert form. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become the center of your weekend breakfast or brunch gatherings, winning over hearts and tastebuds alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe boasts a beautiful balance of simple, readily available ingredients that work together harmoniously to create the perfect texture, flavor, and color. Every component, from the cocoa powder to the red gel food coloring, plays a vital role in transforming humble dough into stunning red velvet cinnamon rolls.

• Bread flour: Provides enough gluten structure for tender yet chewy rolls that hold their shape beautifully.
• Water: Essential for hydrating the dough and creating the tangzhong paste that adds softness.
• Whole milk and heavy cream: These dairy elements enrich the dough with moisture and a silky crumb.
• White vinegar: Reacts with the milk to tenderize the dough and enhance the red velvet tang.
• Granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness that balances the cocoa and cinnamon spices.
• Cocoa powder: Brings that unmistakable red velvet chocolate hint, pairing perfectly with cinnamon.
• Instant yeast: Gives the dough its necessary rise and airy texture.
• Fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors by cutting through the sweetness.
• Egg: Provides richness and contributes to the soft crumb of the rolls.
• Vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste: Add depth and aromatic sweetness to both dough and frosting.
• Red gel food coloring: Creates the vibrant, signature red velvet color without affecting texture.
• Unsalted butter: Used both in the dough and luscious filling – the cooler the better for easier spreading.
• Light brown sugar: Gives a deep caramel flavor to the cinnamon filling.
• Ground cinnamon: The heart and soul of the filling, providing that warm, spicy kick.
• Cream cheese: Central to the dreamy frosting that finishes these rolls with creamy tanginess.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Make the Tangzhong

Start by whisking together the water and bread flour in a small saucepan over medium heat. Keep whisking continuously to prevent lumps and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens into a smooth paste. This tangzhong base adds incredible softness and moisture retention to your rolls, setting them apart from others.

Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a small bowl, gently combine whole milk, heavy cream, and white vinegar. Letting these mingle means the dairy will slightly acidify and contribute to a tender dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In your mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, instant yeast, and salt until evenly blended. This ensures the yeast and cocoa distribute consistently throughout the dough.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients Into Dry

Add the milk mixture, room temperature egg, vanilla extract, prepared tangzhong, and the magical red gel food coloring into the bowl. Begin kneading with a dough hook at low speed for a couple of minutes until the dough starts coming together in a shaggy ball.

Step 5: Incorporate Butter

Add softened butter bit by bit, about half a tablespoon at a time, making sure each addition fully absorbs into the dough before adding more. This slow process is key to a rich texture and shiny crust.

Step 6: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Continue kneading for another 8 to 10 minutes. Your dough should feel silky, stretchy, and hold its shape well — perfect for rolling and shaping.

Step 7: First Rest and Rise

Shape the dough into a neat ball by pulling the edges to the bottom center. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 30 minutes. This brief break relaxes the gluten and makes it easier to roll out.

Step 8: Make the Cinnamon Filling

Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and vanilla bean paste until luscious and smooth. This sweet and spiced filling is the soul of the cinnamon rolls’ irresistible aroma.

Step 9: Prepare Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch metal baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaning later.

Step 10: Roll Out the Dough and Spread Filling

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 15 by 21-inch rectangle. Spread your decadent cinnamon filling evenly all the way to the edges to guarantee every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 11: Cut and Shape Rolls

Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into twelve strips about 1 3/4 inches wide. Roll each strip firmly away from you, transfer gently into the prepared pan, cover with plastic, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C).

Step 12: Bake to Perfection

Bake the rolls for 28 to 35 minutes until the centers reach an internal temperature of 175°F to 180°F. Your kitchen will fill with the most comforting aromas you can imagine.

Step 13: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While baking, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix until fluffy. Finish with vanilla bean paste and heavy cream for a perfectly smooth spreadable frosting.

Step 14: Frost and Serve

Cool your rolls in the pan for 15 minutes before slathering the cream cheese frosting all over the top. Let the frosting melt slightly into the warm rolls for another 15 minutes, then dig in and savor the magic!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

Garnishes

While the swirls of rich cinnamon and red velvet need little enhancement, feel free to sprinkle a pinch of edible glitter or finely chopped nuts over the frosting for an extra festive finishing touch that will impress guests visually as well as in flavor.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with a simple cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance their richness. A fresh fruit salad or tangy yogurt on the side can also brighten the overall experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving each roll in an individual ramekin with the frosting draped lovingly over the edges. For brunch gatherings, stack them creatively on a tiered cake stand or drizzle extra melted white chocolate for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover red velvet cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their softness without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked rolls after they’ve risen by wrapping the pan tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking fresh, or freeze baked rolls wrapped individually for future treats.

Reheating

To enjoy warm rolls later, simply microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or reheat in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes, adding a bit of moisture with a damp paper towel if needed. Always add a fresh dollop of cream cheese frosting for that oven-fresh feel.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While bread flour gives the rolls a great structure and chew, you can substitute all-purpose flour if needed. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly softer and less elastic.

What if I don’t have red gel food coloring? Can I skip it?

The red food coloring is what gives these rolls their signature look, so skipping it will result in brown cinnamon rolls with a red velvet flavor. For the full experience, using the gel coloring is definitely worth it.

How important is the tangzhong method?

Tangzhong significantly improves the rolls’ tenderness and moisture retention, making them last longer and taste even better. It’s a bit of extra effort that pays off beautifully in texture.

Can I make the cinnamon filling vegan?

You can substitute the butter in the filling with a plant-based spread, but keep in mind the cream cheese frosting will need to be replaced with a vegan alternative to maintain consistency and flavor.

How do I know when the rolls are perfectly baked?

Using a thermometer is best — the center rolls should reach between 175°F and 180°F. If you don’t have one, look for golden edges and a slightly firm center that springs back gently when pressed.

Final Thoughts

Baking the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe is truly a rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth, indulgence, and joy. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you crave something extraordinary for breakfast, these rolls deliver on every level. I hope you have as much fun baking and sharing them as I do. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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