Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic, rich flavor of red velvet cake with the gooey, spiced sweetness of traditional cinnamon rolls. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because, these beautiful rolls are guaranteed to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Visually Stunning – The red velvet color makes them ideal for festive occasions like Valentine’s Day or Christmas.
Decadent Flavor – They’re soft, buttery, and rich with cocoa and cinnamon.
Cream Cheese Frosting – A luscious topping that pairs perfectly with the rolls.
Perfect for Make-Ahead – You can prep the dough the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Ingredients List
For the Dough:
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
½ cup warm milk (110°F)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon salt
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon red food coloring
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
½ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk (more as needed)
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rising Time: 90 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the activated yeast, butter, eggs, vanilla, and red food coloring. Mix until combined, then knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 5: Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a 14×10-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces and arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the pan and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until lightly golden and cooked through.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and spreadable.
Step 10: Frost and Serve
Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t Overbake
Red velvet cinnamon rolls should be soft and slightly gooey inside. Overbaking can make them dry.
Adjust Food Coloring
Add more or less red food coloring depending on your desired hue. Gel food coloring works best for vibrancy.
Chill the Dough
If you’re not baking the same day, cover the shaped rolls and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
Variations to Try
Red Velvet Nutella Rolls
Swap the cinnamon sugar with Nutella spread for a chocolatey variation.
Chocolate Chips Inside
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon sugar layer before rolling.
Red Velvet Rolls with Marshmallow Frosting
Substitute cream cheese frosting with homemade marshmallow fluff for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rolls with a cup of hot coffee or cocoa for a cozy breakfast.
Garnish with extra red velvet cake crumbs for presentation.
Great addition to brunch buffets or dessert tables.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can prepare the rolls ahead by refrigerating them before the second rise. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Freezing
Freeze unfrosted rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before frosting and serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Cold Ingredients
Cold butter or milk can prevent the dough from rising properly. Always use room-temperature ingredients unless stated otherwise.
Not Kneading Enough
Under-kneaded dough may result in dense rolls. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Skipping the Second Rise
Don’t skip the second rise—this step ensures your rolls are fluffy and tender.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Roll)
Calories: 320
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 5g
Pairing Ideas
Drinks:
Vanilla latte
Cold brew coffee
Hot chocolate with whipped cream
Sides:
Fresh fruit
Scrambled eggs
Yogurt parfaits
FAQs
Can I use natural food coloring?
Yes, beet powder or pomegranate juice can be used, though the color won’t be as vibrant.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
You can substitute with melted chocolate, though it might slightly alter the dough texture.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese.
Can I reheat these rolls?
Yes. Warm individual rolls in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds or reheat the entire pan in a low oven.
Conclusion
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious fusion of two beloved treats—red velvet cake and classic cinnamon rolls. They’re festive, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite whether you’re baking for the holidays or treating yourself on a cozy morning. With a gooey center, a fluffy texture, and that irresistible cream cheese frosting, these rolls offer a sweet experience you won’t forget. Try this recipe once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.