Save These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are everything you want in a comfort bake, fluffy rolls with a gentle cocoa note that reminds you of red velvet cake, sweet swirls of cinnamon sugar, and a generous slathering of tangy cream cheese frosting that melts over the tops.
You get the best of two classics in every bite and the cream cheese frosting ties it all together in the most satisfying way. My family starts hovering near the oven by the time the aroma hits its peak and we laugh about who will get the first rolls from the middle.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: warm, sets up a tender dough and adds rich flavor, use fresh
- Active dry yeast: creates that perfect airy rise, check expiration for best results
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the dough and helps the yeast activate
- All purpose flour: forms the structure, sift for softer rolls
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: gives a subtle chocolatey note and the signature red velvet flavor, choose a quality one
- Salt: balances sweetness and enhances flavor, opt for fine sea salt
- Large eggs: offer richness and softness, make sure they are at room temperature for better mixing
- Unsalted butter: both melted for dough and softened for filling and frosting, brings a creamy mouthfeel, choose European style for a richer result
- Vanilla extract: deepens the aroma, pure extract makes a difference
- Red food coloring: creates the signature vibrant look, start with less and adjust for intensity
- Brown sugar: makes for a gooey caramel swirl in the filling, use fresh for best moisture
- Ground cinnamon: brings warmth and spice, choose a fragrant brand
- Cream cheese: softened, is the lush base for the topping, full fat works best
- Powdered sugar: blends smoothly into the frosting, sift to avoid lumps
- Milk: a splash in the frosting helps achieve the creamy texture, use whole if possible
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- Pour warm milk into a small bowl and sprinkle the yeast evenly over the top. Leave it undisturbed until foamy, about ten minutes. The mixture should look creamy and slightly bubbly before moving on.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This ensures the cocoa is distributed evenly for that lovely red velvet color and light crumb.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In your stand mixer bowl, add sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and red food coloring. Stir until smooth and vibrant red.
- Make the Dough:
- Pour the foamy yeast and milk mixture into the wet ingredients. With your mixer on low, gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic, about ten minutes. By hand, sprinkle extra flour and knead until springy and pulls away cleanly.
- First Rise:
- Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for one to one and a half hours until doubled.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Deflate the dough, turn onto a floured surface, and roll into a sixteen by twelve inch rectangle.
- Add the Filling:
- Spread softened butter evenly, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle over the dough, then pat gently.
- Roll and Slice:
- Roll the dough up tightly into a log. Slice into twelve equal pieces and place cut side up in a greased nine by thirteen inch dish.
- Second Rise:
- Cover and let rise again for thirty to forty five minutes, until rolls touch each other.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Bake rolls for twenty two to twenty five minutes, until lightly golden and centers are cooked.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy, add powdered sugar and vanilla, mix until thick, and add milk for spreadable consistency.
- Frost and Serve:
- Spread cream cheese frosting over warm rolls to melt into creases. Serve immediately.
Save I never get tired of the tangy cream cheese frosting. It really is the crowning glory here. The first time my niece made these with me we ended up with more frosting than rolls because she kept sneaking tastes between layers. We still laugh about it whenever there is extra in the bowl.
Storage Tips
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to four days. They stay soft if you warm them for ten seconds in the microwave before serving. You can also freeze unfrosted rolls individually then defrost and add fresh frosting just before eating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap half the all purpose flour for bread flour if you want a chewier bite. For a lighter version you can use reduced fat cream cheese in the frosting and plant based butter throughout. You can even make the rolls vegan by using your favorite dairy free milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these rolls with fresh berries, a dusting of extra cinnamon, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. For brunch arrange them in a wreath on a lovely platter and sprinkle with colorful nonpareils. For dessert they are delicious with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
Cultural Inspiration
Red velvet cake has deep roots in American southern baking. These rolls reinterpret that tradition, blending it with the comfort of classic cinnamon rolls and transforming them into something worthy of holidays and special family breakfasts.
Seasonal Adaptations
Top your rolls with pastel sprinkles or edible flowers for spring. Add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg to the filling in winter. Use deep red and green sprinkles for festive winter holidays.
Success Stories
Whenever I serve these every roll is devoured within minutes. They are a showstopper at bake sales and family brunches. Even my friends who swear by classic cinnamon rolls are always amazed by the twist and ask for the recipe.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble and shape the rolls up until the second rise then cover and freeze. Bring to room temperature for an hour before baking and proceed with the recipe. Frost after baking for bakery fresh results.
Save These cinnamon rolls are truly special. Serve them warm for unforgettable comfort and bakery style joy.
Cooking Questions
- → Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and shape the rolls. Refrigerate overnight, then allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
- → What does red velvet add to cinnamon rolls?
The cocoa and red coloring give a rich taste and vibrant color, making the rolls extra festive and appealing.
- → Can I use cream cheese frosting alternatives?
Substitute with vanilla glaze or whipped mascarpone for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I ensure a soft, pillowy texture?
Knead the dough thoroughly and allow proper rising time. Using bread flour for part of the flour can enhance texture.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these rolls contain only vegetarian ingredients but include dairy and eggs.
- → How should I reheat leftovers?
Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a low oven until soft and gooey.