Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten up your holiday mornings, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat are just what you need. Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of cinnamon and warm dough wafting through your home. These rolls are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red color, but they also have a flavor that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for Christmas morning, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and fun. Plus, who can resist the idea of indulging in soft, fluffy rolls topped with a luscious glaze? It’s the perfect way to bring everyone together around the breakfast table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, anyone can whip up these rolls.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping roll and cut the dough, making it a fun family activity.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and cinnamon creates a rich and comforting flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Stunning Presentation: The bright red color makes these rolls not only tasty but also beautiful to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You likely already have most of these staples in your pantry. Each element plays an important role in creating those soft, delicious cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress.

For the Dough

• 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

For the Filling

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (add more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try to make these rolls your own:

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap out the glaze for a tangy cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold chocolate chips into the filling for an indulgent twist.
• Different Colors: Use different food coloring to match any holiday or occasion theme!

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

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk to about 110°F and stir in the yeast along with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it wakes up the yeast and ensures your dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. These dry ingredients will give structure and flavor to your rolls. Adding them first allows for even mixing when you incorporate wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add in the yeast mixture along with softened butter, egg, and buttermilk. Mix everything until you form a soft dough. It’s always exciting when those colors come together!

Step 4: Knead the Dough

If your dough feels sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it’s manageable. Knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten which gives your rolls that perfect fluffy texture.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size. This is where all that magic happens!

Step 6: Prepare Filling Mixture

While waiting for the dough to rise, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Set aside softened butter for spreading later. This mixture will create that heavenly filling we all love.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, punch down your dough gently to release air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12×16 inches. Spread softened butter evenly across this canvas before sprinkling on your cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 8: Shape Rolls

Starting from one long side, roll up your dough tightly into a log shape. Use either a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice it into 12 equal pieces. This method helps you get those nice clean cuts without squishing them!

Step 9: Second Rise

Arrange your slices in a greased baking dish with some space between each roll. Cover again and let rise for another 30–40 minutes until puffy. Patience is key here; they’ll be worth it!

Step 10: Bake Them Up!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those beauties for about 20–25 minutes until golden on top and cooked through. Just keep an eye on them so they stay soft and fluffy!

Step 11: Make Your Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust as needed by adding more milk or sugar based on how thick you want your glaze. A good drizzle over warm rolls makes everything better!

Step 12: Serve Warm

Drizzle generously over warm cinnamon rolls right out of the oven! Serve immediately while they’re still soft—it’s hard to resist such deliciousness!

Now gather around with friends or family—these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking these delightful rolls can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh yeast: Ensure your instant yeast is fresh for optimal rising. Using expired yeast can lead to dense rolls that don’t rise properly.
• Room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and egg to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother dough and improves the texture of the rolls.
• Don’t skip the second rise: Giving your rolls a second rise is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture. It allows the gluten to relax and results in a softer roll.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature. Baking at the right heat ensures even cooking and prevents over-baking.
• Experiment with color: Feel free to adjust the amount of red food coloring based on your preference. More color can make your rolls visually striking, perfect for any festive occasion!

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

Serving these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can turn any breakfast into a festive occasion! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries not only adds a pop of color but also complements the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing touch and enhance the visual appeal of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad brings balance to the richness of cinnamon rolls. Consider using seasonal fruits like oranges, apples, and pomegranates for a vibrant mix.
• Yogurt parfait: Serve with layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit for a nutritious side option that contrasts nicely with the indulgence of cinnamon rolls.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your meal, making it more filling while providing a savory counterpoint to the sweet rolls.
• Hot cocoa or coffee: Pairing these rolls with hot cocoa or freshly brewed coffee creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for chilly mornings.

Now you’re all set to make this holiday treat truly special! Enjoy baking and sharing these scrumptious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making your Christmas morning stress-free and enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• After baking, let the rolls cool entirely.
• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label and date the bag!

Reheating

• To reheat, unwrap the desired number of rolls and place them on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out.

How do I store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage!

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

If you prefer not to use red food coloring, you can either omit it altogether or substitute with beet juice for a natural coloring option.

Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk as a substitute for regular milk.

How do I make these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Make sure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these scrumptious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls! They are perfect not just for Christmas morning but any cozy gathering with loved ones. The warm aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience – I’d love to hear how they turned out!