Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you adore the classic charm of cinnamon rolls but want to add a stunning twist to your morning treat, this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine fluffy, tender rolls bursting with a subtle cocoa flavor and that vibrant red hue, swirled with a perfectly spiced cinnamon filling, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts right into the warm rolls. This recipe delivers all the cozy warmth and rich indulgence of cinnamon rolls, but with an unforgettable color and flavor profile that’ll make anyone smile at your breakfast table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to crafting these beautiful, flavorsome rolls. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s giving the dough its tender crumb, that signature red color, or the rich cinnamon-sugar swirl that melts in your mouth.

• Milk (1 cup, warmed to 110°F): Warm milk activates the yeast and makes the dough soft and tender.
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The magic behind the rise, creating soft, fluffy rolls.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Provide richness and structure to the dough.
• Red gel food dye (1 tsp): This adds that iconic, striking red velvet color without thinning the dough.
• All-purpose flour (4 1/4 cup): The base of the dough, providing structure and chew.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Key to subtle chocolate flavor, complementing the cinnamon.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• White granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds light sweetness to the dough.
• Unsalted butter (10 TBSP, room temperature): Incorporated into the dough for richness and tenderness.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Used in the cinnamon filling to create a smooth, spreadable paste.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the filling.
• Ground cinnamon (1 TBSP): The soul of the filling, providing the classic spiced warmth.
• Heavy cream (1/3 cup): Poured around the rolls before baking to add moisture and a rich finish.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, room temperature): For the luscious, tangy icing that perfectly balances the sweet rolls.
• Unsalted butter (4 TBSP, room temperature): Combined with cream cheese for a smooth frosting texture.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup, sifted): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds fragrant warmth to the icing.
• Milk (2 TBSP): Adjusts icing consistency to the perfect spreadable texture.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough

Start by warming your milk to just 110°F — warm enough to encourage the yeast to bloom without killing it. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit quietly for 10 minutes until it’s frothy and alive. This step is the foundation for those soft, pillowy rolls you’re about to create.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Then, add the butter cubes and work them into the mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers until they resemble small peas. This creates tender, flaky layers in the dough, an important step to good texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients and Form Dough

Whether using a stand mixer with a dough hook or mixing by hand, add your milk and yeast mixture, beaten eggs, and that gorgeous red gel food dye to your flour mixture. Start mixing on low speed until the dough just begins to come together.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Switch the mixer to medium speed and knead the dough for about five minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and bright red throughout. You’ll love how the dough develops a vibrant color and soft texture that’s begging to rise.

Step 5: First Rise

Spray a large bowl with nonstick spray and shape the dough into a ball. Place it in the bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size. This is where all that yeast magic happens.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough is rising, mix your softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon using a hand mixer until you get a smooth, thick paste. This filling is where the sweet, spicy signature swirl comes to life.

Step 7: Roll Out and Spread Filling

Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Use an offset spatula to spread the cinnamon filling evenly all over, right to the edges. This ensures every bite is filled with that cozy cinnamon goodness.

Step 8: Roll and Cut the Dough

Starting at the short end, tightly roll the dough into a log—rolling from this side gives the best swirl pattern. Trim off any uneven ends, then cut the log into 12 equal rolls using unflavored dental floss or a serrated knife. Gentle sawing motions prevent squishing and keep those perfect layers intact.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place the rolls cut side up in a generously greased 9×14 inch pan, cover with a towel, and let them rise a little for 20 minutes. They’ll puff up slightly, making room for baking into light, airy rolls.

Step 10: Bake with Cream

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pour heavy cream evenly around the rolls to keep them moist and luscious during baking. Bake for 25 to 27 minutes, or until the tops turn lightly golden and the center hits 160°F. The cream gives a slightly custardy finish that’s irresistibly soft.

Step 11: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls bake, whip together the cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Add powdered sugar, then vanilla and milk until the icing reaches that perfect spreadable consistency. This rich glaze is the crowning touch.

Step 12: Ice the Warm Rolls

As soon as your rolls come out of the oven, generously spread the cream cheese frosting all over. The warmth of the rolls melts the icing into those cracks and layers, creating a gooey, dreamy finish that’s hard to resist.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While these rolls are beautiful on their own, adding a few finishing touches brings them to a whole new level. Consider sprinkling a pinch of crushed pecans or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of the cream cheese icing for added texture and subtle flavor contrast. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, can also complement the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with fresh fruit or a light fruit salad to balance the decadence of the rolls. For a brunch spread, a cup of rich, freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte perfectly cuts through the sweetness, enhancing each bite. Even a cold glass of milk never fails to be a comforting companion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special gathering, try serving individual rolls in decorative paper liners or on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of extra cream cheese glaze and a sprig of mint on the side. You can also transform the leftover rolls into a decadent bread pudding or French toast for a fun next-day treat. The vibrant red color makes them festive for holidays or celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft texture without drying out. To keep the icing looking fresh, add a little extra frosting after reheating if needed.

Freezing

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls freeze wonderfully. Simply wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the rolls as if freshly baked, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes wrapped loosely in foil. This retains moisture while warming through. You can also microwave a single roll for 20-30 seconds but keep an eye on it to avoid over-drying.

FAQs

Can I make the dough without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. Combine ingredients in a large bowl, then transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. It takes a bit more elbow grease, but the results are just as delicious.

What if I don’t have red gel food dye?

While gel food dye gives the boldest color with minimal liquid, you can use liquid red food coloring too, just avoid adding too much to keep the dough from becoming sticky. Alternatively, natural colorants like beet powder can be experimented with for a subtle red tint.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute the milk with plant-based milk, use vegan butter, and replace eggs with flax eggs or other egg substitutes. Keep in mind texture and rise may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

The rolls should be lightly golden on top and feel set when touched. Using a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 160°F to ensure the dough is fully cooked without drying out.

Is it necessary to pour heavy cream around the rolls before baking?

Yes, the heavy cream adds moisture and a slight richness that keeps the rolls tender and adds a subtle custardy finish. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about pulling a pan of warm, glowing red velvet cinnamon rolls from the oven, frosting them generously, and sharing these vibrant, tender treats with people you care about. This Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe isn’t just a baking project; it’s a warm hug wrapped in dough, cinnamon, and cream cheese. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new favorite for cozy mornings and celebrations alike!

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