Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat

If you’re looking for a delightful way to start your holiday morning, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat will surely brighten your day! With their rich, velvety texture and warm cinnamon aroma, they are the ultimate indulgence. Each bite feels like a cozy hug, making them perfect not just for Christmas mornings but also for any special occasion or even a simple family gathering.

What makes this recipe so special is its beautiful red color that instantly adds cheer to your breakfast table. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! You’ll love how the sweet cinnamon filling pairs with the soft rolls, creating a treat that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these rolls is a fun and stress-free experience.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the vibrant color and delicious taste, making it a hit at family gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cocoa powder and cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas morning or a cozy weekend brunch, these rolls are sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these scrumptious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. You probably have many of these items already in your pantry!

• 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your own twist on these delicious rolls.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Cream Cheese Filling: Swap out the cinnamon sugar filling for a sweet cream cheese mixture if you want something extra decadent.
• Frosting Options: Try using flavored extracts like almond or lemon in the glaze for a unique twist.
• Fruit Additions: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries in the filling for an unexpected burst of sweetness.

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

Step 1: Activate the 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 ensures that your yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Then add in your yeast mixture along with softened butter, egg, and buttermilk. Mix everything until you have a soft dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead It Right

If your dough feels too sticky, add an extra tablespoon of flour as needed. Knead it on a lightly floured surface for about seven to eight minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten in the dough which gives your rolls their wonderful texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your 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 allows air bubbles to form inside the dough which makes it light and fluffy when baked.

Step 5: Prepare Your Filling

While waiting for your dough to rise, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside your softened butter; this will be spread over your rolled-out dough later!

Step 6: Roll It Out

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any trapped air. Roll it out into a rectangle about twelve by sixteen inches on a floured surface. Evenly spread softened butter across the surface before sprinkling your cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top.

Step 7: Shape Your Rolls

Starting from one long side, roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut it into twelve equal slices. This ensures even baking and consistent size!

Step 8: Second Rise

Arrange those beautiful slices in a greased nine by thirteen-inch baking dish with space between each roll. Cover them again and let them rise for another thirty to forty minutes until puffy. This second rise helps achieve that lovely fluffy texture.

Step 9: Bake Them Up

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those rolls for twenty to twenty-five minutes until they are golden on top and cooked through. Just keep an eye on them—overbaking can lead to dryness!

Step 10: Whip Up the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust its consistency by adding more milk if you prefer it thinner or more sugar if you like it thicker.

Step 11: Drizzle & Serve!

Once out of the oven, drizzle your warm rolls generously with that luscious glaze while they’re still soft! Serve immediately while they’re warm—there’s nothing quite like enjoying fresh-baked cinnamon rolls straight from the oven!

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

Making the perfect red velvet cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure they turn out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and egg to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps the dough to rise better and results in a softer texture.

• Knead thoroughly: Don’t skip the kneading step! Kneading develops gluten, which gives your rolls that lovely structure and chewiness. Aim for 7–8 minutes of kneading until the dough feels smooth and elastic.

• Check your yeast: Always ensure your yeast is fresh before starting. If it doesn’t foam when mixed with warm milk, it’s best to buy a new packet. Active yeast is crucial for fluffy rolls!

• Don’t rush the rises: Allow ample time for both rising steps. A warm environment helps the dough rise properly, leading to light and airy rolls.

• Adjust baking time as needed: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake—if they’re golden brown before the timer goes off, it’s okay to take them out early.

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

When it comes to serving these delightful red velvet cinnamon rolls, presentation can really enhance the experience. Here are some fun ideas to make them shine on your holiday table!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a sweet touch and makes your rolls look extra special.
• Fresh berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of cinnamon rolls, making it a balanced breakfast option.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy texture that pairs well with the fluffy cinnamon rolls.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein that complements the sweet rolls perfectly, making this a hearty meal.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy atmosphere during breakfast, allowing you to savor each bite.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your red velvet cinnamon rolls will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table this holiday season! Enjoy creating wonderful memories around this delicious treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later. Here’s how to store them, freeze them, and reheat them so that you can savor this delightful treat any time!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze the rolls, let them cool completely after baking.
• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover lightly with foil. Bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating frozen rolls, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following the same reheating instructions.

FAQs

Have questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about these delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fill it a day in advance, keep it covered in the fridge overnight, and bake it fresh in the morning.

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

You can replace it with beet juice for a natural alternative or simply omit it altogether. The cinnamon rolls will still taste amazing!

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

Look for a golden top and gently press on one of the rolls; if it springs back, they’re ready! You can also use a toothpick inserted into the center to check for doneness.

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes! Almond milk works perfectly as a substitute. Just ensure it’s warm (about 110°F) before adding it to your yeast mixture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! They’re not only stunning but also bring warmth and joy to any holiday breakfast table. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these rolls are sure to make your Christmas morning extra special. Happy baking!