Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your holidays, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat will do just that! Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, their vibrant red color making them a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it never fails to bring smiles around the breakfast table. Whether it’s Christmas morning or just a cozy weekend, these rolls are perfect for any occasion.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! With simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, you can whip up these soft and fluffy delights in no time. Plus, they are sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flair: These rolls add a splash of color and joy to any holiday gathering.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone in the family will love the delicious flavor; they’re perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough ahead of time, so you can enjoy a worry-free morning.
• Soft & Fluffy: Each roll is tender and packed with sweet cinnamon goodness—just heavenly!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create our delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.

Ingredients:
– 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
– 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
– ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring (or more as desired for color)
– 1 tablespoon buttermilk
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk (add more if needed)
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is flexible enough to suit various tastes! Feel free to get creative with these delicious variations:

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling for an added crunch.
• Chocolate Chip Delight: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the filling before rolling it up for extra sweetness.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap out the glaze for a rich cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.
• Nut Butter Swirl: Spread your favorite nut butter on the dough before adding the cinnamon filling for a nutty flavor.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Warm the milk to about 110°F, then add the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial because it ensures your yeast is active; without this, your dough won’t rise properly, which means no fluffy rolls!

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. When you mix these dry ingredients together first, it helps distribute everything evenly. Then add in your yeast mixture along with softened butter, egg, and buttermilk. Mix until a soft dough forms—your kitchen will start smelling amazing already!

Step 3: Knead Your Dough

If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! Just add an extra tablespoon of flour at a time until it comes together nicely. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about seven to eight minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading is important because it develops gluten in the dough which gives those rolls their wonderful texture.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour or until doubled in size. This rising time is where all that magic happens—the dough develops flavor and texture.

Step 5: Prepare Your Filling

While waiting on your dough to rise, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This mix becomes your sweet filling that will bring flavor and warmth to each roll!

Step 6: Roll It Out

Once your dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about twelve by sixteen inches. Spread softened butter evenly across the dough; then sprinkle that heavenly cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.

Step 7: Shape Your Rolls

Starting from one long side of your rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Use either a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut it into twelve equal slices—this keeps them nice and neat!

Step 8: Second Rise Time

Arrange those beautiful slices in a greased nine by thirteen-inch baking dish with just enough space between each roll. Cover again and let them rise for another thirty to forty minutes until puffy—and trust me; they will look irresistible!

Step 9: Bake Them Up!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those rolls for twenty to twenty-five minutes until golden on top. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake; we want soft rolls that melt in your mouth!

Step 10: Make The Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you prefer thicker glaze or thinner glaze adjust by adding more powdered sugar or milk as needed.

Step 11: Drizzle & Serve!

Once baked to perfection, drizzle those warm rolls generously with your sweet glaze while they’re still warm. Serve immediately while they’re soft; everyone will be reaching for seconds! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat!

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat

Creating the perfect batch of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your rolls turn out fluffy and delicious!

• Use fresh yeast: Ensuring your yeast is fresh and active is crucial for the dough to rise properly. Expired yeast may not provide the lift your rolls need, resulting in dense cinnamon rolls.

• Knead until smooth: Kneading the dough for the right amount of time (7–8 minutes) develops gluten, which gives your rolls that soft and tender texture. Don’t rush this step!

• Let the dough rise in a warm place: A warm environment helps the dough rise effectively. You can create a cozy spot by placing it in an oven that’s turned off but slightly warmed or near a sunny window.

• Don’t skip the second rise: Allowing the rolls to puff up again after cutting them gives you light and airy cinnamon rolls. This step enhances their texture significantly.

• Serve warm for maximum enjoyment: These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re still warm. The gooey filling and glaze will make each bite irresistible!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat

Presenting your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls beautifully can enhance that festive spirit, especially on Christmas morning! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top adds a nice crunch and an earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
• Fresh raspberries or strawberries: These berries not only add a pop of color but also introduce a tangy freshness that balances out the richness of the cinnamon rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of cinnamon rolls. Think strawberries, kiwi, and oranges for vibrant colors!
• Scrambled eggs: A savory side like fluffy scrambled eggs provides protein that rounds out your breakfast beautifully, making it satisfying and hearty.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side dish that complements the sweetness of the rolls while adding a bit of healthiness to your festive spread.
• Coffee or hot cocoa: Don’t forget about beverages! A warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa pairs perfectly with these sweet treats, making breakfast feel even more indulgent.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls! They’ll surely bring joy to your holiday table and create sweet memories for everyone who shares them. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy that delightful holiday treat without the morning rush. You can make them ahead of time and store them, ensuring they stay just as delicious for your Christmas morning celebration.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• To keep them fresh, consider wrapping each roll individually in plastic wrap before storing.

Freezing

• Allow the baked rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let the rolls thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Just shape and bake them in the morning for freshly baked rolls.

What makes these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls special?

These rolls combine the classic flavors of cinnamon with a vibrant red velvet twist, making them not only delicious but also visually stunning—perfect for festive occasions!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can use dairy-free milk and butter alternatives if desired. Just ensure that any changes still maintain the consistency needed for the dough.

How do I know when my Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are done baking?

Look for a golden top and gently touch one of the rolls; it should feel soft yet firm. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls! They’re not just delicious; they’re a heartwarming addition to your holiday traditions. Sharing them with family and friends will surely bring smiles all around. Enjoy making these tasty treats, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings or toppings. Happy baking!