If you’re ready to indulge in a truly irresistible treat, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are exactly what you need. Combining the classic, rich flavor of red velvet with the warm, comforting swirl of cinnamon, these rolls are soft, fluffy, and made from scratch with a perfect blend of cocoa and cinnamon spices. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe brings a delightful twist to traditional cinnamon rolls that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor Fusion: The blend of red velvet cocoa and cinnamon creates a deliciously unexpected flavor combination that’s both rich and comforting.
Soft and Fluffy Texture: Made with tender dough, these rolls rise beautifully to provide melt-in-your-mouth softness in every bite.
Made From Scratch: Simple ingredients come together to create a bakery-quality treat that’s fresher and more satisfying than store-bought versions.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or an impressive dessert, these rolls always shine on the table.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant red color makes for an Instagram-worthy treat that’s sure to wow friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role in building the soft, flavorful, and visually stunning Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. From enriching cocoa powder to warm cinnamon and rich cream cheese, each adds a special touch.

All-Purpose Flour: The base for your dough, providing the structure needed for soft rolls with just the right chew.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a deep chocolate note essential to classic red velvet flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and filling for balanced flavor.
Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise into those fluffy, pillowy rolls.
Warm Milk: Activates the yeast and softens the dough, making it easier to work with.
Butter: Enhances richness and tenderness in the dough as well as the filling.
Eggs: Provide moisture and help bind the ingredients together for a cohesive dough.
Cinnamon: The star spice in the filling, perfectly paired with cocoa for that delicious swirl.
Brown Sugar: Creates the caramelized sweetness in the cinnamon filling.
Red Food Coloring: Brings the iconic bright red color to these rolls, making them festive and fun.
Cream Cheese: The base for the classic tangy frosting that perfectly complements the sweetness of the rolls.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to both the dough and frosting for well-rounded flavor.

Variations for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Feel free to personalize these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls to suit your preferences or dietary needs—there’s plenty of room to experiment while keeping the essence of this dessert alive.

Vegan Version: Substitute dairy milk and butter for plant-based alternatives, and use a flax egg to replace the eggs.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for extra crunch and flavor contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the frosted rolls for an extra decadent treat.
Spicy Upgrade: Add a pinch of cayenne or ground cloves to the cinnamon filling for a surprising kick.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to create a celiac-friendly version.

Best Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls to Try Now

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar, letting it bubble up after about 5 minutes. Mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add in the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Knead this into a smooth, elastic dough either by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until thoroughly mixed and spreadable. This filling infuses the rolls with that classic warm cinnamon sweetness balanced by cocoa undertones.

Step 3: Roll Out and Spread

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Evenly spread the cinnamon filling across the dough, reaching all edges for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Starting from a long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the log into evenly sized rolls, typically 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Arrange them in a greased baking pan, spaced slightly apart to allow for final rising.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Cover the rolls lightly and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This frosting is tangy, sweet, and the perfect creamy topping for the warm cinnamon rolls.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the rolls cool slightly (about 10 minutes out of the oven), generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top so it melts into every crevice. Serve warm for the ultimate comforting experience!

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Measure Flour Correctly: Use a spoon and level method to avoid dense dough caused by too much flour.
Keep Milk Warm: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
Don’t Skip the Resting: Allow the dough to rise fully twice to ensure soft, fluffy rolls.
Roll Tight But Not Too Tight: Getting a snug roll prevents gaps but keeps the rolls light and airy.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For easy mixing and a consistent dough texture, bring eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temp before starting.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Top your rolls with extra cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or edible red sugar crystals for added texture and sparkle.

Side Dishes

Pair these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with fresh berries, a light fruit salad, or a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee to balance the sweetness with refreshing and warm notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them stacked on a pretty cake stand or arranged in a decorative baking dish lined with parchment. Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top, or dust lightly with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish that makes every bite feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep the frosting separate or spread it lightly to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping by placing them on a tray to freeze solid, then transferring into a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and allow for a final rise before baking. Baked and frosted rolls also freeze well—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 325°F oven wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, then add fresh frosting if desired.

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls without red food coloring?

Yes, you can omit the food coloring, but the rolls will have a more subtle color and lose the signature red velvet appearance. You can also try using natural alternatives like beet juice for color.

How long do Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls stay fresh?

At room temperature, they stay fresh for about 2 days. Refrigerated, the rolls can last up to 5 days, but they’re best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal softness.

Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

Absolutely! Use the dough setting on your bread machine to knead and rise the dough, then roll, fill, and bake as directed.

Are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls suitable for freezing?

Yes, both unbaked and baked rolls freeze well. Freeze unbaked rolls before the final rise and thaw before baking, or freeze fully baked and frosted rolls for easy reheating later.

What type of frosting pairs best with these rolls?

The classic cream cheese frosting is perfect for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls thanks to its creamy texture and tangy flavor that balances sweetness beautifully. You can also try a vanilla glaze or even a chocolate drizzle.

Final Thoughts

With their perfect blend of rich cocoa, warm cinnamon, and that iconic red hue, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try for anyone who loves a cozy, indulgent treat. Easy to make, utterly delicious, and endlessly customizable, they make every morning feel special or every dessert feel festive. Give this recipe a go—you’ll quickly discover why these rolls have become a beloved favorite in so many homes.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Print Recipe

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic rich flavor of red velvet cake with warm, comforting cinnamon swirls in soft, fluffy rolls made from scratch. Perfect for special occasions or cozy breakfasts, these rolls feature a unique fusion of cocoa and cinnamon spices, topped with tangy cream cheese frosting and vibrant red color for an irresistible treat.

Author: Mary
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 to 1.5 hours rising)
Cook Time: 20 to 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

3 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
¼ cup Granulated Sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (1 packet)
1 cup Warm Milk (about 110°F)
4 tablespoons Butter, melted
2 large Eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons Red Food Coloring
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
½ teaspoon Salt

Cinnamon Filling

6 tablespoons Butter, softened
½ cup Brown Sugar
2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon

Cream Cheese Frosting

4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
4 tablespoons Butter, softened
1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it bubble up for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Knead the mixture by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined and spreadable.
Roll Out and Spread: Once risen, gently punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, reaching all edges.
Shape the Rolls: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into even slices about 1.5 to 2 inches thick using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving space between each for rising.
Final Rise and Bake: Cover the rolls lightly and let them rise for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Frost and Serve: After baking, let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls so it melts into every crevice. Serve warm for the best experience.

Notes

Measure flour correctly using the spoon and level method to avoid dense dough.
Keep milk warm but not hot to properly activate yeast.
Allow the dough to rise fully twice for soft, fluffy rolls.
Roll the dough tight enough to prevent gaps but not so tight that rolls become dense.
Use room temperature eggs, butter, and cream cheese for easier mixing and consistent dough texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 230 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: red velvet cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls, red velvet recipe, cream cheese frosting, breakfast rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls