If you’re looking for a way to elevate your classic cinnamon roll game, let me introduce you to the magic of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. These are soft, tender, and laced with just the right amount of cocoa and warm spice. The red velvet base gives them a gorgeous color and a rich, almost cake-like flavor, while the swirl of cinnamon sugar keeps that classic cozy feel intact. And don’t even get me started on the cream cheese frosting—it’s the final touch that turns these rolls from “wow” to “where have these been all my life?”

I started making these as a fun Valentine’s Day brunch idea, but they’ve since become a year-round favorite. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday breakfast, special weekend treat, or just because your sweet tooth is calling, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let me walk you through how I make them, with a few tips to help you get the softest, fluffiest, most flavorful results.

Why These Rolls Work

This recipe is the perfect marriage of two beloved treats: red velvet cake and cinnamon rolls. Here’s what makes it a winner:

• Red velvet dough: Cocoa powder and red food coloring add depth and a vibrant color.
• Classic cinnamon filling: A sweet, spiced swirl that complements the subtle chocolatey dough.
• Cream cheese frosting: Rich, tangy, and absolutely necessary.
• Soft, fluffy texture: Thanks to the yeast-based dough, they bake up light but rich.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp (30ml) milk (if needed for consistency)

How I Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough

I start by dissolving the yeast in the warm milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to rise.

In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Then I stir in the melted butter, egg, red food coloring, vanilla, and the yeast mixture. Once everything is combined, I knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Next, I place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until it’s doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, I mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This is the heart of that gooey, spiced swirl that makes cinnamon rolls so addictive.

Once the dough has risen, I roll it out into a rectangle—about 14×10 inches—on a floured surface. Then I spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, followed by the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 3: Roll, Slice, and Rise Again

Starting from the long side, I tightly roll the dough into a log and use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice it into 10–12 equal rolls.

I arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise again for 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Bake

I bake the rolls for about 18–22 minutes, just until they’re puffed and lightly golden. The kitchen smells amazing at this point—warm vanilla, cocoa, and cinnamon all rolled into one.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While the rolls are baking or cooling slightly, I beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Then I gradually mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to make the frosting creamy and spreadable.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven and still slightly warm, I spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. It melts slightly into the rolls, creating that perfect creamy glaze layer.

Then it’s time to slice, serve, and enjoy every bite.

Tips for Perfect Rolls Every Time

• Don’t rush the rise: Make sure the dough has doubled before shaping—this gives you that soft, fluffy texture.
• Use room-temperature butter for the filling: It spreads easier and helps hold the cinnamon-sugar in place.
• Frost while warm: Not too hot (or the frosting will melt completely), but still warm enough for the glaze to sink into the tops.
• Want to prep ahead? Assemble the rolls and store them covered in the fridge overnight. Let them come to room temp and rise a bit before baking in the morning.

How I Serve These

These rolls are perfect as a:

• Special breakfast or brunch
• Holiday morning treat
• Sweet addition to a dessert table
• Just-because weekend bake

I love serving them with a hot cup of coffee or chai. They also reheat beautifully in the microwave for a quick midweek indulgence.

FAQs From My Kitchen

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
A: Yes—skip the proofing step and mix it right into the dry ingredients. Just make sure your milk isn’t too hot.

Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze the baked rolls (without frosting) and reheat when ready. Add the frosting fresh after warming.

Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
A: You can use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cream cheese to adapt the recipe. Just watch the texture of your dough and frosting.

Why These Cinnamon Rolls Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Box

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a fun twist on a classic and every bit as delicious as they sound. They’re tender, flavorful, and feel like a little celebration with every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Let me know if you try them—and don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you expected.

Red Velvet Meets Cinnamon Roll in This Dreamy, Decadent Bake

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your classic cinnamon roll game, let me introduce you to the magic of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. These are soft, tender, and laced with just the right amount of cocoa and warm spice. The red velvet base gives them a gorgeous color and a rich, almost cake-like flavor, while the swirl of cinnamon sugar keeps that classic cozy feel intact. And don’t even get me started on the cream cheese frosting—it’s the final touch that turns these rolls from ‘wow’ to ‘where have these been all my life?’

By Jason GriffithPublished on April 12, 2025

Prep Time15 min

Cook Time30 min

Total Time45 min

Servings4 servings

Category: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese
• 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp (30ml) milk (if needed for consistency)
• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Once risen, roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
6. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture (combine brown sugar and cinnamon).
7. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
8. Place rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
10. While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
11. Remove rolls from the oven and let cool slightly before drizzling with cream cheese frosting.

Nutrition Information

@type: NutritionInformation

Calories: 350 calories

Protein Content: 6g

Carbohydrate Content: 50g

Fat Content: 15g

Tags: cinnamon rolls, red velvet, dessert, baking, cream cheese frosting

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