Indulge in the ultimate fusion of flavors with red velvet cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing—a luscious, bakery-style treat that combines the velvety richness of red velvet with the warm, comforting spices of classic cinnamon rolls. These stunning, ruby-hued pastries are soft, fluffy, and slathered in a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting that melts beautifully over every swirl. Perfect for brunch, holidays, special occasions, or simply treating yourself, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
What Makes Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Unique
Red velvet isn’t just about color—it’s a perfect balance of cocoa richness, mild tang, and buttery softness. When combined with the sweet-spiced swirl of cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy frosting, it becomes an irresistible indulgence. The eye-catching red hue makes these rolls a festive showstopper on any table.
Essential Ingredients for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp red food coloring (gel preferred)
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup softened butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk, for desired consistency
How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch
Creating these heavenly rolls requires some love and patience, but the result is well worth every minute.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix in eggs, melted butter, and red food coloring.
- Add cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Knead for 7–10 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook or by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Once dough is risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the buttered dough.
3. Roll and Slice
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
- Slice into 12 even rolls using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss.
- Place rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
4. Final Rise and Bake
- Cover rolls and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are slightly golden and the centers are cooked through.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, and mix until creamy and spreadable.
- Spread over warm rolls for a melty, gooey finish.
Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
- Use gel food coloring for a vibrant red without thinning the dough.
- Don’t over-flour: Use just enough to keep dough from sticking. Too much makes the rolls tough.
- Room-temperature ingredients ensure even mixing and better dough rise.
- Double-proofing creates extra fluffy, bakery-style rolls.
- Spread icing while warm for optimal melt and flavor absorption.
Variations and Additions to Try
Chocolate Chip Surprise
Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a gooey chocolatey touch.
Nutty Crunch
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling for added texture.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Glaze
Blend a few strawberries into the icing for a fruity, pink twist.
Holiday Spices
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a festive flavor boost.
How to Make These Rolls Ahead of Time
Overnight Option:
- After slicing the rolls and placing them in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly in the morning (about 45 minutes), then bake.
Freezing Tips:
- Unbaked: Freeze after slicing, then bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.
- Baked: Freeze fully baked rolls, and reheat in the oven or microwave before frosting.
Serving Suggestions
These red velvet cinnamon rolls are perfect for:
- Valentine’s Day or anniversaries
- Christmas or Easter brunch
- Birthday breakfasts or brunch bars
- Bridal or baby showers
Pair with:
- Hot coffee or a latte
- Fresh fruit and mimosas
- Vanilla milkshakes for an indulgent dessert
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temp: Store unfrosted rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Fridge: Keep frosted rolls in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual rolls for 20–30 seconds, or reheat in a low oven.
Final Thoughts: A Sweet Masterpiece Worth Every Bite
With their rich cocoa flavor, pillowy-soft texture, and tangy-sweet cream cheese icing, these red velvet cinnamon rolls are more than just a breakfast treat—they’re a luxurious experience. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers every time.
