Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

If you’ve ever been charmed by the classic cinnamon roll and dazzled by the rich hue of red velvet cake, then you’re in for a delightful treat. Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring together the best of both worlds, offering a bite-sized, rich-flavored pastry that perfectly satisfies a sweet craving without overwhelming your palate. With their tender, fluffy dough and that iconic cream cheese glaze, these rolls are an irresistible dessert or breakfast option that feel just as special on any occasion as they do for everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delightfully bite-sized: Miniaturized rolls are perfect for snacking or serving at parties without the guilt of a full-size portion.
• Unique twist on a classic: The red velvet flavor adds a beautiful color and cocoa undertone that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon spices.
• Easy to enjoy warm or cold: These rolls taste amazing straight from the oven or even chilled for a cool treat.
• Perfect balance of flavors: Tangy cream cheese frosting complements the sweet and spiced red velvet dough flawlessly.
• Great for sharing: Their size and presentation make Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls ideal for gatherings or gifting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that work together to create the perfect red velvet cinnamon roll experience. Each element plays a vital role in delivering the rich flavor, soft texture, and stunning color.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and softness to the dough, ensuring the rolls are tender yet sturdy.
• Cocoa powder: Adds a subtle chocolate flavor that is key to the classic red velvet profile.
• Buttermilk: Offers moisture and a slight tang to brighten the dough’s flavor.
• Instant yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully and develop a fluffy texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering the cinnamon filling.
• Unsalted butter: Infuses richness and provides a tender crumb to each bite.
• Cinnamon: The warm spice that makes the rolls irresistibly fragrant and flavorful.
• Red food coloring: Produces the iconic vibrant red hue that makes these rolls visually irresistible.
• Cream cheese: The base for the luscious frosting that perfectly balances sweet and tangy notes.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both dough and frosting.

Variations for Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Feel free to customize these Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls to match your taste buds, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Here are a few easy ways to make the recipe your own.

• Chocolate chip add-in: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips in the filling for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
• Nutty crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts inside for texture and a toasty flavor.
• Vegan version: Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and vegan butter, and replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese options.
• Sugar-free option: Use natural sweeteners like erythritol or stevia to reduce sugar content.
• Spiced up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a more complex spice blend.

How to Make Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by activating your instant yeast in warm buttermilk with a little sugar. Once it’s bubbly and alive, mix it with all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, red food coloring, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until a smooth dough forms. Knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until soft and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Once risen, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle a generous mix of cinnamon and sugar to form the filling layer.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log and cut it into 12 equal-sized mini rolls. Line them up in a greased baking dish or muffin tin, leaving enough space to rise again.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the rolls and allow them to rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled in size.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they are set and lightly golden on the edges.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, whip together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk to make a smooth, spreadable frosting.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the rolls cool for a few minutes before slathering on the cream cheese frosting generously. Serve warm for the ultimate indulgence.

Pro Tips for Making Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• Use fresh yeast: Ensures the dough rises beautifully and has that airy texture.
• Don’t skip the second rise: This step develops the soft, fluffy layers that make these rolls so special.
• Even filling spread: Distribute the cinnamon sugar evenly to avoid areas that are too spicy or bland.
• Brush with butter before baking: This keeps the rolls moist and rich throughout baking.
• Cool slightly before frosting: Prevents the frosting from melting and becoming too runny.

How to Serve Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Top with finely chopped pecans or shaved white chocolate for a pretty finish and extra texture. Light dustings of powdered sugar can add a snowy effect perfect for holidays or special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair these bites with a cup of rich coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of cold milk for a perfectly balanced snack or breakfast combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange them on a tiered dessert stand for parties or place each roll in a colorful cupcake liner for easy serving and delightful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for three to four days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to two months, making for a perfect grab-and-go sweet treat anytime.

Reheating

Warm rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore that fresh-baked softness and melty frosting feel.

FAQs

Can I make Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls without food coloring?

Yes! You can omit the red food coloring for a more subtle cocoa cinnamon roll, but you’ll lose the iconic red velvet appearance.

Are these rolls dairy-free?

The classic recipe contains butter, buttermilk, and cream cheese, however, you can substitute these with plant-based alternatives to make a dairy-free version.

How long do I need to let the dough rise?

The first rise usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours until the dough doubles in size; the second rise is shorter, about 30 to 45 minutes.

Can Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to shaping them, then refrigerate overnight before baking fresh the next day.

What is the best way to serve these rolls?

Serve warm with a generous spread of cream cheese frosting and optionally paired with coffee or milk for the best flavor experience.

Final Thoughts

Mini Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are truly a delightful fusion of two beloved treats, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings any time of the day. Their rich red velvet flavor combined with the classic cinnamon swirl and creamy frosting makes them impossible to resist. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe will bring warmth, joy, and a little bit of magic to your kitchen. Give it a try—you won’t regret diving into these scrumptious, bite-sized delights!

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