Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Get ready to experience the ultimate breakfast treat with these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls! Imagine pillowy-soft, cocoa-kissed dough swirled with warm cinnamon sugar, all topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts right into each roll. These are truly a work of edible art: perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any morning that deserves a bit of celebration. Trust me, this recipe will turn heads and win over hearts (and taste buds!) at first bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a special role in creating the iconic flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and signature color of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. Stick to these essentials, and you’ll end up with dreamy swirls and an unforgettable glaze!

• Warm milk (1 cup, 110°F): Jump-starts the yeast for a light, fluffy rise in the dough.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup for dough, 2 tbsp for filling): Sweetens both the dough and the gooey center—don’t be tempted to skip!
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): Gives the rolls their beautiful height and softness.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted for dough, 1/4 cup softened for filling, 1/4 cup softened for glaze): Adds richness and guarantees that tender, buttery finish throughout.
• Egg (1 large): Brings the dough together with structure and flavor.
• Red food coloring (1 tsp): The secret to that vibrant, crave-worthy red hue.
• All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups): The backbone of your dough and the foundation for perfect rolls.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup for dough, 2 tbsp for filling): Infuses everything with deep, classic red velvet chocolate flavor.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances out the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate notes.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup for filling): Adds caramel-like depth and goo to the cinnamon roll center.
• Cinnamon (2 tsp for filling): The warm spice that defines every classic cinnamon roll swirl.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): For the glaze—you know these aren’t the same without that tangy, creamy finish.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Makes the glaze sweet and silky smooth.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Enhances the flavor in every bite of the frosting.
• Milk (2–3 tbsp for glaze): Gives you control over the perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining your warm milk, a bit of granulated sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Give it about 5–10 minutes: you’re looking for a nice, foamy activity that signals your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. If nothing happens, your yeast might be too old or your milk too hot/cold—fresh, happy yeast is the secret to soft Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

Step 2: Mix Up the Red Velvet Dough

Add the melted butter, egg, and red food coloring to your frothy yeast mixture and stir to blend those vibrant colors. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. This stage is where that signature red velvet color really shines!

Step 3: Knead and Rise

Once your dough comes together, tip it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes, or until it feels elastic and smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise someplace cozy for about an hour, or until doubled in size. This is your golden ticket to ultra-pillowy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

Step 4: Make The Chocolate-Cinnamon Filling

While your dough is rising, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This combination brings a unique chocolatey warmth to your rolls and gives each swirl that extra pop of flavor.

Step 5: Roll & Fill the Dough

Punch down your risen dough and roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Once rolled, gently spread the softened butter over the surface—it’s okay if it’s a little imperfect. Sprinkle your filling mixture all over, making sure every inch gets a good blanket. The sweet aroma from this step is utterly irresistible!

Step 6: Shape and Slice

From the long side, roll up your dough tightly (like a sleeping bag). Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice into 12 even rolls. This technique keeps your beautiful swirls perfectly intact.

Step 7: Second Rise & Bake

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F. Once doubled and puffy, bake for 25–30 minutes until they’re set, just barely golden, and your kitchen smells heavenly!

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the rolls cool slightly, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to get a spreadable, dreamy consistency. This thick glaze is where Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls transform from delicious to unforgettable!

Step 9: Glaze and Serve

Spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm rolls so it melts down into the cracks and crevices. Serve immediately and watch everyone swoon.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Elevate your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with a handful of fun garnishes. Try sprinkling mini chocolate chips, a dusting of cocoa powder, or vibrant red velvet cake crumbs over the cream cheese glaze. Even a few fresh berries on top can look incredibly inviting. Don’t be shy—these rolls love a little extra flair!

Side Dishes

Balance out these decadent rolls with simple sides. Fresh fruit salad, creamy Greek yogurt, or a hot cup of coffee are perfect partners. For brunch, pair with crispy bacon or a light egg scramble to make the meal feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Make a statement by stacking the rolls on a pedestal platter, or serve them in individual muffin cups for a grab-and-go feel. For holidays, arrange the rolls in fun shapes (like a heart or a Christmas tree) before the second rise—you’ll be the talk of the party. However you present them, Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls steal the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls (lucky you!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them, but make sure they’re well-covered to prevent drying out.

Freezing

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls can be frozen after baking—just let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. They’ll keep beautifully for a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and glaze!

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic, warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or reheat the whole pan in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10–15 minutes. If you’ve saved back a little glaze, drizzle it on warm for that bakery finish.

FAQs

Can I prepare Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls the night before?

Absolutely! After shaping the rolls and arranging them in the baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit out for 30–45 minutes to come to room temperature and rise a bit more before baking in the morning.

Can I use natural food coloring instead of red food coloring?

You can substitute with natural red coloring, such as beet juice powder or plant-based food coloring, but the hue may be softer than traditional Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.

Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?

Inactive yeast or liquid that’s too hot or cold can short-circuit the rising process. Always make sure your yeast is fresh and your milk is just warm to the touch (about 110°F).

Can I make these rolls vegan?

While this particular recipe uses dairy and eggs, you can experiment with plant-based substitutes like non-dairy milk, vegan butter, flax eggs, and vegan cream cheese. Taste and texture may shift a bit, but it’s definitely doable!

How can I get my icing extra smooth and pourable?

Let the cream cheese and butter soften fully at room temperature and sift your powdered sugar before mixing. Add milk a tablespoon at a time—you want a pourable, but not runny, glaze to give Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls their dreamy finish.

Final Thoughts

Everyone should experience the joy of a fresh batch of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls at least once in their life. It’s a recipe that brings smiles, sparks conversation, and turns any morning into a celebration. Give it a try and see just how magical breakfast (or dessert) can be!

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