There’s a certain thrill that comes from transforming a simple kitchen moment into something spectacular. The first crackle of dough, the rich aroma of cinnamon swirling in the air—it’s these sensory experiences that make cooking at home so rewarding. This recipe for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze is not just about indulgence; it offers a delightful adventure in flavor and color. Imagine the warm, inviting hues of red dancing through the kitchen, enticing everyone around to take a bite.
After a long day or maybe just when you’re in need of a cozy weekend project, this treat can turn the ordinary into something magical. Best of all, you’ll be delighted to discover that these rolls are surprisingly simple to make, bursting with a flavor that’s as rich as their vibrant color. So let’s roll up our sleeves and embrace the joy of baking—a journey that ends with sweet, gooey goodness!
Why love Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze?
Irresistible: These rolls blend classic cinnamon roll flavors with a vibrant twist, making them a showstopper for any gathering.
Colorful: The red velvet base not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle cocoa depth.
Frosting Heaven: A luscious cream cheese glaze perfectly complements the sweetness, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy them as a breakfast treat or a dessert; they shine at any occasion.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers will shine.
Crowd-Pleasing: Make a batch for brunch, and watch guests come back for seconds! For a more delicious breakfast option, consider pairing them with a side of homemade breakfast casserole.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
Discover the magic of baking with these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze; each component plays a crucial role in bringing this treat to life!
For the Dough
- Whole milk – provides moisture and richness for the dough.
- Canola oil – offers a light texture, perfect for fluffy rolls.
- Sugar – sweetens the dough, giving it a delightful taste.
- Vanilla extract – enhances flavor and adds warmth.
- Red & black food dye – creates that signature vibrant red hue.
- Quick rise yeast – helps the dough rise quickly, making the process faster.
- Whole wheat flour – adds a nutty flavor and a bit of fiber to the rolls.
- Baking powder – ensures a fluffy texture in combination with yeast.
- Baking soda – helps the dough rise and achieve a light consistency.
- Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
For the Filling
- Melted butter – provides moisture and richness, enriching the filling.
- Brown sugar – adds deeper caramel notes and sweetness.
- Cinnamon – infuses a warm, comforting flavor throughout the rolls.
- PHILADELPHIA® Cream Cheese – lends creaminess and a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- Powdered sugar – sweetens and thickens the glaze for a luscious finish.
- Vanilla extract (again) – reinforces the delightful flavor dimensions.
- Whole milk – helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
- Lemon juice – brightens flavors and balances sweetness.
- Salt – complements the sweetness for the ideal blend of flavors.
- Cinnamon (again) – adds an extra touch of warmth to the finished glaze.
Get ready to indulge in a spectacular baking experience with these perfect ingredients!
How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
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Scald the Mixture: In a large pot, combine whole milk, canola oil, and sugar. Heat until scalding, stirring occasionally, to dissolve the sugar completely.
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Cool Down: Remove the pot from heat, allowing the mixture to cool until lukewarm (about 45 minutes). This is essential for activating the yeast!
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Add Flavor and Color: Once warm, stir in the vanilla extract and your desired amount of red and black food dye. Adjust the color to your preference, making it vibrant and inviting.
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Activate Yeast: Sprinkle the quick rise yeast into the mixture and let it sit for about 1 minute. You should see bubbles forming, indicating it’s expanding and ready to work its magic!
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Mix Flour: Gradually stir in 4 cups of whole wheat flour using a wooden spoon until well combined. The texture should be smooth, and a soft dough will begin to form.
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Let it Rise: Cover the bowl with a tea towel and set it aside for an hour. As the dough rises, it will double in size, filled with air pockets.
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Combine Remaining Ingredients: After the first rise, add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until fully integrated into a smooth dough.
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Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Aim for about 1/4-inch thick to allow for perfect rolling and filling!
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Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour this luscious mixture over the rolled dough, spreading it evenly.
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Add Cream Cheese: Generously spread the softened PHILADELPHIA® Cream Cheese over the sugary mixture, creating layers of flavor.
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Roll It Up: Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough toward you, keeping it tight. Seal the seams and ends, ensuring the filling stays tucked inside.
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Prep Your Pans: Grease several baking pans with melted butter or nonstick spray before placing your cinnamon rolls inside.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F, preparing for the delightful baking process.
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Cut and Rise Again: Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch pieces and arrange them in the prepared pans, leaving space for them to rise. Let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant throughout the kitchen.
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Top with Glaze: As soon as they come out of the oven, immediately pour the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt and coat them beautifully.
Optional: Sprinkle with a dusting of cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze?
Looking to create a delightful brunch or dessert spread alongside your scrumptious rolls?
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of berries and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon rolls, balancing sweetness.
- Brewed Coffee: The bold flavors complement the sweetness of the rolls, making each bite even more enjoyable as you sip.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fruit, this creamy addition offers a delightful crunch alongside the soft texture of the rolls.
- Savory Breakfast Casserole: A hearty, egg-based dish adds savory flavor, perfectly offsetting the sweetness of the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Pouring a little maple syrup over the rolls creates a luscious, sweet waterfall that enhances their decadent nature.
- Hot Chocolate: A warm, rich cup of hot chocolate creates the ultimate cozy vibe, inviting everyone to indulge in sweetness together.
- Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, such as goat cheese or brie, adds creamy richness and perfect saltiness to offset the glaze.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing drinks cleanse the palate, making each bite of cinnamon rolls feel new and exciting.
- Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm rolls, creating a delightful dessert experience.
- Mini Cupcakes: For a fun dessert table, serve mini cupcakes for variety; their bold flavors complement the cinnamon and cream cheese perfectly.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to elevate your baking experience by tailoring these rolls to your unique taste and dietary preferences.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for delicious gluten-free rolls.
- Vegan: Replace cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese, and use almond or coconut milk in the dough.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon filling for that extra chocolaty experience. They’ll melt beautifully as they bake!
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or nutmeg in the filling for a warming kick that surprises the taste buds.
- Fruit-Filled: Toss in some fresh berries, diced apples, or raisins to the filling for a fruity burst of flavor and a different texture.
- Frosting Variations: Experiment with adding different flavor extracts, like almond or hazelnut, to the cream cheese glaze for a unique twist.
- Coffee Infusion: Stir in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the dough or filling for a delightful coffee aroma that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe steps until rolling the dough, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cutting and placing it into the pans. Alternatively, you can shape the rolls, place them in the pans, and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to bake, let them rise at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping them in the oven. This way, your warm, gooey rolls will be just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your quick rise yeast to ensure it activates properly, allowing your rolls to rise beautifully.
Perfect Rolling Technique: When rolling the dough, be gentle but firm. A tight roll will keep the filling from oozing out during baking.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the rolls as they bake. They should be golden brown; overbaking can make the texture dry.
Temperature Check: Ensure the milk mixture cools adequately before adding the yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast, resulting in dense rolls.
Glaze While Warm: Pour the cream cheese glaze over the rolls immediately after baking to achieve maximum melt-in-your-mouth goodness, infusing flavor throughout the rolls.
Customize Flavor: Don’t hesitate to adjust the cinnamon or add additional spices in the filling. Personalize your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls for a unique twist!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container for up to 5 days; just warm them slightly in the microwave before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze unglazed rolls individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, then drizzle with your cream cheese glaze!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe FAQs
What type of food dye should I use for the red velvet color?
Absolutely! You can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant hue, which works beautifully in baked goods. Liquid food dye will work as well, but you might need to use a bit more to achieve that stunning red color.
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze?
For room temperature storage, keep the rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container for up to 5 days. Just warm them slightly in the microwave before enjoying, and they’ll still taste delightful!
Can I freeze the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! For optimal freezing, wrap each unglazed roll securely in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw the rolls in the fridge overnight, then bake them at 375°F for about 10 minutes until warm.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, check the temperature of your milk mixture. It should be lukewarm (about 100°F) when adding the yeast. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising. Always use fresh yeast and proof it in warm (but not hot) liquid to see if it bubbles before combining with other ingredients.
Are these rolls suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The ingredients in this recipe are nut-free, making it a safe choice for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check the packaging of your ingredients to make sure they were processed in a nut-free facility to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese glaze for a less sweet option. Start with 2 cups instead of 4, and taste as you go to find your perfect balance. Adding a bit more lemon juice can also enhance the flavors without increasing sweetness!
Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine whole milk, canola oil, and sugar. Heat until scalding, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and cool until lukewarm (about 45 minutes).
- Stir in the vanilla extract and desired amounts of red and black food dye.
- Sprinkle in quick rise yeast and let sit for about 1 minute until bubbles form.
- Gradually stir in 4 cups of whole wheat flour until smooth.
- Cover with a towel and let rise for 1 hour.
- After the rise, add remaining 1/2 cup flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
- Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then pour over the rolled dough.
- Spread PHILADELPHIA® Cream Cheese over the mixture.
- Roll up the dough tightly and seal the seams.
- Grease several baking pans and arrange the sliced rolls inside.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Let the rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Immediately pour cream cheese glaze over warm rolls.