Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert or breakfast treat that turns heads and melts hearts, these
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls deliver pure indulgence. Imagine the soft, pillowy texture of classic cinnamon rolls blended with the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake. Each bite is swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into every warm layer. Perfect for holidays, brunch spreads, romantic breakfasts, or whenever you want to impress, these rolls are as stunning as they are delicious. Their bold color, silky texture, and indulgent flavors make them absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients & Their Roles

Red Velvet Dough

• 1 cup warm milk – Activates the yeast and creates tender dough.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – Helps the rolls rise into soft, fluffy spirals.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and enhances browning.
• 1/3 cup melted butter – Adds richness and softness.
• 2 large eggs – Bind the dough and improve texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts the red velvet flavor.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder – Gives classic red velvet its light chocolate undertone.
• Red food coloring – Provides the signature deep red color.
• 4–5 cups all-purpose flour – Creates structure while keeping the rolls tender.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.

Cinnamon Filling

• 1/2 cup softened butter – Helps the filling melt into the dough.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and caramel richness.
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon – Provides warm, fragrant spice.
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional) – Enhances the red velvet flavor.

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates a silky, tangy frosting.
• 1/4 cup butter, softened – Adds richness and smoothness.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
• 1–2 tablespoons milk – Adjusts consistency for spreading.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the yeast. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the dough. Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, cocoa powder, red coloring, and salt. Mix until combined.
3. Add the flour. Add flour gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
4. Knead the dough. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First rise. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Prepare the filling. Mix butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa powder until well combined.
7. Roll out the dough. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
8. Spread the filling. Evenly coat the dough with the cinnamon mixture.
9. Roll and cut. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12–15 rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
10. Second rise. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise 30–45 minutes.
11. Bake. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers are soft.
12. Prepare the frosting. Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
13. Frost the rolls. Spread frosting over warm rolls to allow it to melt into every swirl.

Why These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Are Loved

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine everything people adore about red velvet cake and classic cinnamon rolls. The dough is soft and vibrant, the filling is warm and sweet, and the cream cheese frosting adds the perfect tangy finish. They look absolutely stunning and taste even better—making them a favorite for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, brunch gatherings, or weekend baking fun.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rolls

• Use warm, not hot milk to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Don’t add too much flour. A slightly sticky dough yields softer rolls.
• Roll tightly for beautiful spirals.
• Frost while warm so it melts into the rolls.
• Add extra cocoa for deeper red velvet flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a generous drizzle of extra cream cheese frosting.
• Top with crushed pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Sprinkle with white chocolate chips for a bakery-style touch.
• Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or a cold glass of milk.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are soft, buttery, vibrant, and irresistibly delicious. With their
rich cinnamon swirl, gorgeous color, and silky cream cheese frosting, they deliver bakery-level quality from your own kitchen.
This recipe is simple, reliable, and unforgettable—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion. One batch is never enough, and once you try them, you’ll want to bake them again and again.