Pink Cinnamon Rolls
There’s something magical about waking up to the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. These Pink Cinnamon Rolls not only tantalize your taste buds but also delight the eyes with their gorgeous blush color. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any occasion that calls for a little sweetness, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike. With a delightful combination of soft dough, rich cinnamon filling, and a creamy pink frosting, these rolls elevate a classic treat into something truly special.
Why This Pink Cinnamon Rolls Stands Out
What sets these Pink Cinnamon Rolls apart is their whimsical hue and delightful flavor. The use of a standard white cake mix gives the dough a tender crumb and adds a touch of sweetness, while the addition of pink food coloring not only makes them visually appealing but also adds a fun twist to a beloved classic. The cinnamon filling provides the familiar warmth and comfort we all crave, and the cream cheese frosting gives a tangy finish that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging yourself, these Pink Cinnamon Rolls are a treat that everyone will adore.
Ingredient Checklist
- 1 box standard size white cake mix – The base for your dough, adding sweetness and moisture.
- 2 packages of dry yeast – Essential for helping the dough rise and achieve that fluffy texture.
- 2 tsp pink food coloring – For that stunning pink hue that makes these rolls pop.
- 2 1/2 cups of warm water – Activates the yeast and helps combine the ingredients.
- 1 tsp vanilla – Adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the dough.
- 1 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness of the dough and filling.
- 5 cups flour – Provides structure to the rolls.
- 2 cups sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling, making every bite delicious.
- Cinnamon – The star of the filling, bringing warmth and spice.
- 1/2-1 cup butter, softened – For the filling and frosting, adds richness.
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened – For the frosting, gives a creamy texture and tanginess.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened – Also for the frosting, to make it smooth and spreadable.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla – For the frosting, enhancing the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon half-and-half or milk – Helps achieve the right consistency for the frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness in the frosting.
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements.
- Whisk – To mix the dry ingredients and activate the yeast.
- Rolling pin – For rolling out the dough.
- Baking sheet – To bake the cinnamon rolls.
- Plastic wrap – For covering the dough while it rises.
- Cooling rack – To cool the rolls after baking.
Pink Cinnamon Rolls Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, dry yeast, and warm water. Stir gently until well combined. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, letting the yeast activate.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast is bubbly, add in the pink food coloring, vanilla, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the flour, so add it slowly. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl until it forms a spreadable paste. Set aside.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 7: Add the Filling
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 8: Roll and Cut
Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, slice into 12-15 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking sheet, leaving some space for them to rise again.
Step 9: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
Step 10: Bake the Rolls
After the second rise, bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 11: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla, half-and-half, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Step 12: Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Pink Cinnamon Rolls!
Make It Your Way
- Add nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch.
- Experiment with different extracts, like almond or coconut, for a unique flavor twist.
- For a lighter frosting, consider using yogurt instead of cream cheese.
- Make mini rolls by cutting the dough into smaller pieces before rolling and slicing.
Missteps & Fixes
If your dough doesn’t rise, check that your yeast is fresh and your water is warm, not hot.
- If the rolls are too dry, you may have added too much flour. Adjust next time and ensure you measure accurately.
- For sticky dough, dust with a little more flour as you knead, but avoid overdoing it to keep the rolls soft.
- If the frosting is too thick, thin it out with a splash more of half-and-half or milk.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your Pink Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven or microwave.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I make Pink Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise stage, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
What if I don’t have pink food coloring?
You can omit the food coloring or use natural alternatives like beet juice to achieve a pink hue.
Can I use a different type of cake mix for these rolls?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as vanilla or strawberry, to create unique variations.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also use a toothpick to check for doneness—if it comes out clean, they are ready!
Hungry for More?
If you loved these Pink Cinnamon Rolls, don’t stop there! Explore other delightful recipes that bring joy to your kitchen. From decadent pastries to comforting baked goods, there’s a whole world of delicious creations waiting for you.
Indulge in the art of baking, and let your creativity shine with every sweet treat you make. The joy of baking is not just in the final product but in the memories created along the way. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Pink Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, dry yeast, and warm water. Stir gently until well combined. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, letting the yeast activate.
- Once the yeast is bubbly, add in the pink food coloring, vanilla, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the flour, so add it slowly. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl until it forms a spreadable paste. Set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, slice into 12-15 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking sheet, leaving some space for them to rise again.
- Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
- After the second rise, bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla, half-and-half, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Pink Cinnamon Rolls!
Notes
- Add nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch.
- Experiment with different extracts, like almond or coconut, for a unique flavor twist.
- For a lighter frosting, consider using yogurt instead of cream cheese.
