Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls, combining the rich flavors of cocoa, warm cinnamon, and a vibrant red hue. Topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, these rolls are perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or as a delightful indulgence anytime.
What Are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
These cinnamon rolls feature a soft, red velvet-inspired dough infused with a touch of cocoa and colored to perfection. A buttery cinnamon-sugar filling swirls through each roll, and they’re finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Their striking red color and irresistible taste make them a showstopper!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Visually stunning: Perfect for celebrations and gifts.
- Soft and fluffy texture: Thanks to a well-kneaded dough and proper rising.
- Rich flavor: A balance of cocoa, cinnamon, and cream cheese.
- Easy to prepare: Straightforward instructions for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and cocoa powder.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shaping the Rolls
- Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the buttered surface.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log.
- Slice the log into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Baking
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
- Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Finishing Touches
Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls before serving.

Serving Suggestions
- Serve these rolls warm with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Pair with fresh berries for a festive breakfast or brunch spread.
- Add a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra indulgence.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.
Freezing Instructions
- Before baking: Freeze shaped rolls in the baking dish, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
- After baking: Freeze unfrosted rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before adding frosting.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Vegan: Substitute dairy milk and butter with plant-based alternatives, and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
- Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for extra richness.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
FAQs
Can I make these rolls without red food coloring?
Yes, simply omit the red food coloring for a classic cocoa-flavored cinnamon roll.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but you’ll need to activate it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar for 5–10 minutes before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Why didn’t my rolls rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the dough is kept in a warm, draft-free environment for rising.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine beauty and flavor in one irresistible package. Whether you’re baking for a loved one or treating yourself, these rolls are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out—your feedback is always welcome!
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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 rolls
Description
Soft, fluffy, and vibrantly red, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent treat filled with cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend indulgence!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and cocoa powder. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. - Shape the Rolls:
Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, leaving a small border. Sprinkle with the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Roll tightly from the long side to form a log, then slice into 12 equal rolls. Arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. - Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. - Prepare the Frosting:
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. - Frost the Rolls:
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
- For cleaner slices, use unflavored dental floss to cut the dough into rolls.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 320 per serving (approx.)