Red velvet cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort-food favorite with a healthy twist—using the “innovative” Tangzhong method to ensure the fluffiest, softest dough you’ve ever tasted. If you have been looking for an “authentic” bakery-style breakfast that is “stunningly” vibrant for family gatherings, you have found the proven recipe you need.
Having tested this recipe over nine times, Sophie has perfected the balance of cocoa and cream cheese frosting to create a triumph of American-style baking. These aren’t just rolls; they are a remarkable centerpiece for holiday brunches or “special” weekend mornings. By using a “unique” starter and real vanilla bean paste, this successful method provides a superior texture that stays soft for days.
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
There is a reason this “popular” treat is a treasure for home cooks who love a quality bake.
- The Tangzhong Secret: This flour-and-water slurry is the ultimate way to keep bread soft for up to 4 days.
- Vibrant & Stunning: The deep red dough and snowy cream cheese frosting create a beautiful visual contrast.
- Fudgy Filling: A “vibrant” mix of cinnamon and cocoa powder inside mimics the classic red velvet flavor.
- Silky Frosting: Using heavy cream and vanilla bean paste makes the topping stunningly rich.
- Family-Sized: This recipe fills a 9×13 pan, making it helpful for serving up to 10–12 people.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
To achieve the ultimate rise, using “quality” bread flour and room-temperature ingredients is important.
The Tangzhong & Dough
- Bread Flour: 1/4 cup (for starter) + 3 2/3 cups (for dough). Pro Tip: Use the spoon-and-level method!
- Liquid Base: 3/4 cup water, 1/3 cup whole milk, 1/3 cup heavy cream.
- The “Twist”: 1 tbsp white vinegar to create a fresh homemade buttermilk effect.
- Flavor & Color: 1 1/2 tbsp cocoa powder, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, and red gel food coloring.
- The Essentials: 2 tsp instant yeast, 1 tsp sea salt, 1 egg, and 6 tbsp unsalted butter.
The Spiced Filling
- Butter: 1/2 cup, softened.
- Sugar: 2/3 cup light brown sugar.
- Spices: 1 tbsp cinnamon, 2 tsp cocoa powder, and 1 tsp vanilla bean paste.
The Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup.
- Sweetener: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp heavy cream, and 1 tsp vanilla bean paste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to ensure your rolls are a successful hit at your next family gathering.
Step 1 – Make the Tangzhong
In a small saucepan, whisk water and flour. Cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until a “paste-like” slurry forms. This is a proven technique for remarkable softness. Set aside to cool.
Step 2 – Mix the Vibrant Dough
Combine your milk, cream, and vinegar. In a stand mixer, whisk bread flour, sugar, cocoa, yeast, and salt. Add the milk mixture, egg, vanilla, Tangzhong, and red food coloring. Knead for 2 minutes, then gradually add the softened butter.
Step 3 – Knead and Rest
Continue kneading for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Form into a ball and let it rest for 30 minutes. This “simple” rest allows the gluten to relax for an easy roll-out later.
Step 4 – Fill and Roll
Roll the dough into a 15×21-inch rectangle. Spread your “beautiful” cinnamon-cocoa filling to the edges. Cut into twelve 1 3/4-inch strips using a pizza cutter. Roll them up and place in a parchment-lined 9×13 pan. Let rise in a warm place until doubled (1–2 hours).
Step 5 – Bake and Frost
Bake at 325°F ($162°C$) for 28-35 minutes. While they bake, whip your cream cheese frosting until light and fluffy. Let the rolls cool for 15 minutes, then spread the frosting on top so it “seeps” into the layers for a successful finish.
Pro Tips for Success
- Measure by Weight: For the most quality results, use a kitchen scale. Too much flour is the enemy of a successful roll!
- Gel Over Liquid: Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without altering the moisture of the dough.
- Warm Rise: If your house is cold, let the rolls rise in an oven that is turned OFF but has a bowl of steaming water on the bottom rack.
- Internal Temp: For the ultimate bake, the middle rolls should reach 175°F–180°F.
- Frosting Secret: Applying frosting while the rolls are still slightly warm is a practical way to ensure it reaches every nook and cranny.
Flavor Variations
- Stuffed Surprise: For an “innovative” twist, place a white chocolate chunk in the center of each roll, inspired by our White Chocolate Stuffed Cookies.
- Nutella Swirl: Replace the butter in the filling with hazelnut spread, similar to our Peanut Butter Nutella Cookie Recipe.
- Red Velvet Cookie Mashup: Crumble some of our Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies on top of the frosting for extra crunch!
- Berry Twist: Add a tablespoon of raspberry jam to the filling for a “fresh” and fruity profile.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They stay “remarkable”ly soft!
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to bring back that “fresh” out-of-the-oven taste.
FAQ About Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
What is Tangzhong?
It is a Japanese technique of precooking a portion of flour and liquid.1 It creates a superior dough that holds more moisture and stays soft longer than traditional methods.
Can I make these overnight?
Yes! After rolling and placing them in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours to finish their rise before baking.
Why is my dough so sticky?
Red velvet dough can be “surprising”ly tacky due to the cocoa and coloring. Avoid adding too much extra flour; instead, use lightly floured hands to handle it for a successful result.
Can I use all-purpose flour?
Bread flour is highly recommended for the “ultimate” chewy texture. All-purpose will work but the rolls will be slightly less “sturdy” and fluffy.
How do I get clean cuts?
A pizza cutter is helpful, but unscented dental floss is the expert secret for cutting rolls without squishing the layers.2
Baking these Ultimate Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls is an uplifting way to start any celebration with a vibrant and “stunning” treat. This proven recipe is a triumph for any home cook looking to provide a quality breakfast for their family. If you enjoyed these soft and “fresh” rolls, be sure to explore our Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies for your next successful baking project!
