Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both a feast for the eyes and a cozy hug for your taste buds, this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is just the treat you need. These rolls blend that classic red velvet charm with the warm, spicy magic of cinnamon, creating a soft, fluffy, and irresistibly fragrant pastry that feels like a celebration in every bite. Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or simply to brighten an ordinary morning, this recipe brings together vibrant color, rich flavor, and a dreamy cream cheese icing that melts on top like a sweet cloud. Let’s dive into the delicious world of red velvet cinnamon rolls and make some magic happen in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things surprisingly simple with ingredients that are easy to find but essential to achieve the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that iconic red hue. Each component plays its part: from the warm milk that wakes up the yeast, to the cocoa powder giving subtle chocolate notes, and the buttery cinnamon filling that makes every swirl irresistible.

• Milk (1 cup, warmed to 110°F): Activates the yeast gently for the softest dough.
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The magic maker that helps the rolls rise beautifully.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Add richness and help bind the dough.
• Red gel food dye (1 tsp): For that vibrant, classic red velvet color, I love using Americolor Super Red.
• All-purpose flour (4 1/4 cups): The foundation of the dough for a tender yet sturdy roll.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Provides depth without overpowering the red velvet flavor.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• White granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
• Unsalted butter (10 TBSP, room temperature): Incorporated in the dough for softness and flavor.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Used in the cinnamon filling, adding richness.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed light or dark): Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
• Ground cinnamon (1 TBSP): The warm spice that defines the cinnamon rolls.
• Heavy cream (1/3 cup): Poured into the pan before baking for tender rolls.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, room temperature): For the luscious icing with a tangy kick.
• Unsalted butter (4 TBSP, room temperature): Added to the icing for a silky finish.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup, sifted): Sweetens the icing perfectly without grittiness.
• Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds a lovely fragrance and depth to the icing.
• Milk (2 TBSP): Helps smooth out the cream cheese frosting to spread easily.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Red Velvet Dough

Start by warming the milk to the perfect 110°F temperature — warm enough to wake the yeast, but not so hot that it kills it. Pour in the yeast and allow it to bloom for about 10 minutes until it’s frothy, signaling it’s ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Then, cut the butter into cubes and mix it into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingers until it resembles little peas. This step is key for creating that tender, buttery crumb in your rolls.

Step 3: Forming and Kneading the Dough

Add the milk and yeast mixture, along with the lightly beaten eggs and red gel food dye to the flour-butter blend. If you have a stand mixer, use the dough hook to mix on low speed just until the dough starts to come together. Then bump up to medium speed and knead for 5 minutes until your dough is smooth, elastic, and glowing a bright red.

Step 4: First Dough Rise

Preheat your oven to 200°F and lightly spray a large mixing bowl with nonstick spray. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in the bowl, and cover with a kitchen towel. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Watching it puff up is so rewarding and means your rolls will be light and fluffy.

Step 5: Preparing the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough rises, whip together the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and spreadable. This lovely paste is going to fill the swirls with gooey, cinnamon-scented goodness that everyone will swoon over.

Step 6: Rolling Out and Filling the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly with an offset spatula, making sure to reach every edge for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Rolling and Cutting the Rolls

Starting from the short side, roll the dough into a tight log; this ensures more swirls and a prettier roll. Use unflavored dental floss or a serrated knife to carefully cut the log into 12 even pieces. If you’re using a knife, gentle sawing motions prevent squashing your beautiful dough.

Step 8: Second Rise

Spray a 9×14 inch casserole pan with nonstick spray and arrange the rolls inside, leaving a little room to puff up. Cover with a towel and let them rise for 20 minutes so they’re nice and puffy before baking.

Step 9: Baking the Rolls

Increase your oven temperature to 375°F. Before placing the rolls in the oven, pour the heavy cream around them in the pan — this little trick adds moisture and tenderness. Bake for 25-27 minutes until the tops are lightly golden or when the internal temperature hits 160°F.

Step 10: Making the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, low and steady, then mix in vanilla and milk until the icing has a perfect spoonable consistency.

Step 11: Finishing Touches

As soon as your rolls come out of the oven, slather on that dreamy cream cheese icing. The warmth will melt the icing into every crack, creating an irresistible glaze that’s both sweet and tangy.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of crushed pecans or walnuts adds a subtle crunch and charming appearance. Fresh raspberries or a few edible flowers can also complement the red velvet hues beautifully and brighten up your serving platter.

Side Dishes

Pair your red velvet cinnamon rolls with a cup of bold coffee or rich hot chocolate — they complement the sweet and cinnamony rolls like old friends. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit salad or whipped cream make refreshing sides that balance the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls on a beautiful cake stand or serve family-style in the pan for a cozy, inviting vibe. You can also serve individual rolls with a small bowl of extra cream cheese icing for dipping or drizzle the rolls with a little melted white chocolate for extra decadence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover rolls tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. When properly covered, they maintain their softness and moistness beautifully.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping and cutting. Separate them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag to freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and let rise before baking as usual.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers warm, microwave a roll for about 20-30 seconds or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, loosely covered with foil. Adding a touch of extra cream cheese icing after reheating revives their fresh-baked charm instantly.

FAQs

Can I make this dough without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead this dough by hand using a sturdy bowl and your hands, which just takes a little more elbow grease—knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

What type of cocoa powder is best for this recipe?

Natural unsweetened cocoa powder works best here, giving the subtle chocolate flavor and deep color contrast that complements the red velvet. Avoid Dutch-processed cocoa for this particular dough.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast but skip the blooming step. Add the instant yeast directly to the flour mixture and proceed with the recipe.

Is the red food dye necessary?

While it’s what gives these rolls their signature red velvet look, you can adjust the amount to your preference or even skip it for a more subtle color, but some red dye is recommended for that classic effect.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?

Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger pan or multiple pans. Watch your rising and baking times as necessary, since a larger batch might require slight adjustments.

Final Thoughts

Making this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is truly a rewarding experience, combining comfort food nostalgia with a stunning visual twist. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these rolls deliver warmth, flavor, and pure joy with every bite. Don’t hesitate—pull on your apron and fill your home with the unforgettable aroma of red velvet and cinnamon swirl today!

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