Dessert

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3½ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ tsp); 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup whole milk, warmed; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp red food coloring; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-4 tbsp milk

ByOlivia Monroe December 11, 2025December 11, 2025

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Introduction

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic warmth of cinnamon sugar swirls with the vibrant color and subtle cocoa notes of red velvet. These soft, tender rolls topped with creamy frosting make an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert.

The image shows several red velvet cinnamon rolls close together, each with three visible layers: the outside is red and soft with a spiral pattern, the middle spiral layer is darker red with a smooth creamy white frosting spread thickly on top, and small dark chocolate chips sprinkled over the frosting add texture. The rolls look moist and fluffy, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ tsp)
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup whole milk, warmed
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
2 tbsp red food coloring
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
2-4 tbsp milk (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
Step 2: Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to form a dough. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 4: While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips if using. Once risen, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
Step 5: Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. Roll it up tightly from the long edge and slice the roll into 12 even pieces.
Step 6: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. While baking, prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use buttermilk instead of whole milk.
Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for added texture.
If you prefer a milder cinnamon taste, reduce the cinnamon to 1 tablespoon.
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color without thinning the dough.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat rolls gently in the microwave or oven before serving to soften the frosting and dough.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of red velvet cinnamon rolls arranged together. Each roll has two main visible layers: a rich red dough forming the base and spiral, and a thick layer of creamy white frosting spread on top and inside the swirls. Small pieces of chocolate or similar toppings are sprinkled lightly over the frosting, adding texture and contrast. The rolls have a soft and fluffy look with the white frosting slightly melting into the red dough underneath. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out and assembling the rolls.

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely. Freeze the unbaked rolls after slicing. Thaw overnight in the fridge, let them rise for 30 minutes, then bake as directed. You can also freeze baked rolls and thaw them before reheating.