Red velvet cinnamon rolls
Red velvet cinnamon rolls bring together two wonderful treats into one soft and sweet bundle. These rolls are fluffy and tender, with a beautiful red color that makes them look…
By Ava
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Reading time: 7 min
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Red velvet cinnamon rolls bring together two wonderful treats into one soft and sweet bundle. These rolls are fluffy and tender, with a beautiful red color that makes them look as special as they taste. You get the classic swirls of cinnamon sugar inside, combined with the subtle cocoa flavor that red velvet is known for, all topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze that melts right in your mouth.
I love making these rolls when I want to surprise someone or just treat myself to something a little different on a weekend morning. What makes them extra fun is that the red velvet dough gives them a nice twist on the usual cinnamon roll, making every bite feel festive and exciting. Plus, they smell amazing while baking, which is the best way to wake up, if you ask me!
My favorite way to enjoy red velvet cinnamon rolls is fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. They make a great breakfast for a cozy day or a sweet snack anytime. If you want to get a little fancy, try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top before baking to add a nice crunch. These rolls always bring smiles around the table and are sure to become a family favorite before you know it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This makes the dough rise and become fluffy. If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be used, but reduce it slightly since it acts faster.
Red Food Coloring & Cocoa Powder: The red velvet signature comes from these. You can use natural beet juice or powder for red color if you prefer a natural option. Cocoa powder adds a subtle chocolate taste—it’s important for that classic velvety flavor.
Butter & Milk: Whole milk and unsalted butter give the dough richness and tenderness. If you need dairy-free, try almond or oat milk and vegan butter or coconut oil.
Cinnamon Filling: Classic cinnamon combined with brown sugar creates a warm, sweet swirl. You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Cream Cheese Icing: This adds a smooth, tangy finish. If avoiding dairy, try a vegan cream cheese alternative or a simple powdered sugar glaze.
How Do You Get Soft, Fluffy Rolls with Deep Red Color?
Getting the dough right is key. Start by activating the yeast in warm milk—not too hot, or it will kill the yeast! Mixing the wet ingredients, including the red coloring and vanilla, before adding dry helps get an even color.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic; this builds gluten for good structure.
- Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled—that makes the dough light and airy.
- Roll the dough tightly when shaping to keep the cinnamon swirl neat and avoid gaps.
- Give the rolls a second rise after cutting; this step helps them puff up during baking.
- Bake until just golden to keep moisture inside. Overbaking dries them out.
After baking, spreading cream cheese icing while rolls are warm lets it melt perfectly into every bite. These simple steps lead to tender, moist rolls bursting with classic red velvet flavor and cozy cinnamon swirls.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining your dough ingredients without mess.
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) – makes kneading easier and saves your hands.
- Rolling pin – helps roll the dough evenly into a large rectangle.
- 9×13-inch baking pan – fits all the rolls comfortably for even baking.
- Sharp knife or unflavored dental floss – for cleanly cutting the rolled dough without squishing it.
- Small bowl and whisk – useful for mixing the cream cheese icing smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cinnamon filling for a mix of brown sugar and chopped pecans for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough or icing for a bright, fresh twist.
- Mix cocoa powder with a sprinkle of instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Try using white chocolate chips in the filling for a sweeter, creamy center.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
For The Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For The Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for thinning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these rolls takes about 20 minutes of active prep, plus 1 to 1 1/2 hours for the first rise and an additional 30-45 minutes for the second rise. Baking time is 20-25 minutes, and icing application requires about 5 minutes. Overall, expect about 2.5 hours from start to finish, most of which is hands-off time waiting for the dough to rise.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients.
In another bowl, mix flour, salt, and cocoa powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is rising, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth and spreadable.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into an 18×12 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly, leaving a small border. Starting from the longer edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 9 to 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
4. Second Rise:
Place the slices cut side up, spaced slightly apart, in a greased 9×13 inch pan. Cover and let them rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
5. Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden and set.
6. Make the Cream Cheese Icing:
While the rolls bake, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Thin with a little milk if needed to reach your preferred consistency.
7. Finish and Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly (5-10 minutes) after baking. Spread cream cheese icing generously over the warm rolls so it melts into the swirls. Optionally sprinkle with crushed cinnamon sugar or nuts. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Dough for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead, shape the rolls, then freeze them before the second rise. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and let them rise until puffy before baking as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Red Food Coloring?
If you prefer natural alternatives, beet juice or powder works well to achieve the red color. Just be mindful that it may slightly alter the flavor and intensity of the color.
How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving for best results.
Can I Make the Cream Cheese Icing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the icing a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading on warm rolls.