Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping breakfast that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and dazzles everyone at the table, you have to try these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat Recipe. This delightfully festive twist on the classic cinnamon roll beautifully combines the rich, velvety flavors of red velvet with the warm spice of cinnamon, creating a soft, tender pastry that’s both eye-catching and unbelievably delicious. Whether you’re waking up on Christmas morning or anytime you want to feel extra special, these rolls are guaranteed to bring smiles and sweet, cozy vibes in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to delivering that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that makes this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat Recipe so irresistible. Each item plays a unique role, from creating tender dough to that signature red velvet hue and cinnamon-spiced sweetness.

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting): Provides the structure necessary for these soft, fluffy rolls.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast: Activates to make the dough light and airy with a perfect rise.
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F): Feeds the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and helps fermentation.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives richness and a tender crumb to the rolls.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• 1 large egg: Brings richness and helps bind the dough for a perfect texture.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Imparts subtle chocolate notes essential for red velvet flavor.
• 2 teaspoons red food coloring (or more as desired for color): Delivers that signature vibrant red shade that makes these rolls so festive.
• 1 tablespoon buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang for authentic red velvet taste.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep sweetness and moisture to the cinnamon filling.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Provides extra sweetness and crunch in the filling.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Combines with cinnamon for a unique filling twist.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The warming spice that defines the classic cinnamon roll filling.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a luscious layer for the filling to meld with cinnamon sugar.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the irresistible glaze topping.
• 2 tablespoons milk (add more if needed): Thins the glaze to a perfect drizzling consistency.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, fragrant finish to the glaze.

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

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Warm the milk to about 110°F and mix in the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it rest for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step guarantees your dough will rise beautifully and have that perfect fluffy texture we all adore.

Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Then add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and buttermilk. Blend everything until a soft, workable dough forms that’s ready for kneading.

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth

If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour one tablespoon at a time. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 7–8 minutes until it feels elastic and smooth—this develops the gluten and ensures a tender, chewy roll.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size. This is where all the magic happens, transforming the dough into a cloud-like base for your rolls.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough rises, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon. This fragrant filling will become the flavorful heart of your rolls, marrying cocoa’s richness with cinnamon’s warmth.

Step 6: Roll Out and Spread

Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll it out into a 12-by-16 inch rectangle. Evenly spread the softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture on top for that melt-in-your-mouth flavor.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Starting at the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut it into 12 equal slices. This careful step ensures each roll bakes evenly and looks beautiful.

Step 8: Second Rise in the Pan

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9-by-13 inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them. Cover and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy—this extra rise guarantees a soft, tender crumb.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes until the tops are golden and the centers are cooked through. Don’t overbake, or you’ll lose that melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding extra milk for a thinner glaze or more sugar for a thicker drizzle. This glaze adds the perfect sweet finishing touch that makes these rolls shine.

Step 11: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the warm cinnamon rolls generously with your glaze. Serve immediately for the ultimate cozy and festive breakfast experience that’s why this is called Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat Recipe.

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

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar or even some festive red and green holiday sprinkles for added color and sweetness. Fresh berries or a small dollop of whipped cream can also elevate the presentation and flavor, making your breakfast table shine.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with hot coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a spiced chai latte for a perfect cozy complement. Fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait with granola add brightness and balance out the indulgence wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper for a farmhouse-style feel, or place the rolls in a festive holiday-themed dish surrounded by pine sprigs and cinnamon sticks. You can also slice them individually and tie with a pretty ribbon for charming gifts or party treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigeration is an option but it can dry the rolls out slightly, so reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping by placing them in the baking pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature before baking fresh in the morning.

Reheating

Rewarm leftovers in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil. Add a quick drizzle of extra glaze or warm butter to regain soft, gooey perfection just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I make these cinnamon rolls without red food coloring?

Absolutely! The red food coloring gives them that classic red velvet look, but if you prefer to skip it, the rolls will still taste amazing with the cocoa and cinnamon flavors shining through.

What type of yeast is best for the recipe?

Instant yeast works great because it doesn’t need to be dissolved beforehand and it gives a reliable rise. Active dry yeast can also be used but make sure to proof it first in warm milk.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

Look for golden tops and ensure the rolls feel springy to the touch. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, never wet dough.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

You can substitute plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and use a vegan butter alternative. Replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce, but note that texture might be slightly different.

What’s the best way to get soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls?

Key points are kneading the dough properly, allowing it to rise fully twice, and baking at the right temperature without overcooking. The glaze also helps lock in moisture and adds to that irresistible softness.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like indulging in these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls | The Perfect Christmas Morning Treat Recipe to start your holiday or any special morning with joy. They are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the taste buds, combining cozy spices, velvety chocolate, and bright, festive color. So grab your apron and baking supplies, and treat your loved ones to a homemade delight that will create warm memories and plenty of smiles.

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