Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

When our neighbor brought over a pan of the most stunning red-swirled pastries I'd ever seen, Sprout's eyes went wide and he whispered, "Mom, those look like magic!" She called them her grandmother's red velvet cinnamon rolls, and after one bite, I knew I had to learn this recipe. The combination of classic red velvet flavor with warm cinnamon spice creates something truly special; like having dessert for breakfast but with all the comfort of fresh-baked bread.

What is Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a stunning twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring the signature red velvet cake flavors of cocoa, vanilla, and buttermilk in a soft yeast dough. The distinctive deep red color comes from food coloring, while the filling combines traditional cinnamon-sugar with hints of cocoa for complexity. Topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, these rolls deliver the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and slightly tangy flavors in every bite.

How To Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Our red velvet cinnamon rolls from scratch achieve that signature deep red color and tender texture using a combination of cocoa powder, buttermilk, and proper food coloring technique. The secret is creating a enriched yeast dough that's soft enough to roll easily but strong enough to hold the beautiful swirls. We finish with classic cream cheese frosting that complements the subtle chocolate notes while adding the perfect tangy contrast.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

Red Velvet Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Salt
• Warm milk
• Buttermilk
• Butter, softened
• Large eggs
• Red food coloring
• Vanilla extract

Cinnamon Filling:

• Butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsweetened cocoa powder

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

Step by Step Method

Create Red Velvet Dough

• Dissolve yeast in warm milk with pinch of sugar until foamy
• Mix flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in large bowl
• Combine buttermilk, softened butter, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla
• Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients along with yeast mixture
• Knead until smooth, elastic dough forms with vibrant red color

First Rise and Prepare Filling

• Place dough in greased bowl, cover and rise 1 hour until doubled
• Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa for filling
• Grease 9x13 baking dish and set aside
• Filling should be spreadable but not too soft

Roll and Fill

• Roll risen dough into large rectangle on floured surface
• Spread cinnamon filling evenly, leaving small border
• Roll tightly from long side, pinching seam to seal
• Cut into 12 equal pieces using sharp knife or dental floss

Second Rise and Bake

• Place cut rolls in prepared baking dish with space between
• Cover and rise 45 minutes until puffy and touching
• Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden on top
• Cool slightly while preparing cream cheese frosting

What Pairs Well With Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

These decadent red velvet cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting pair beautifully with strong coffee, hot chocolate, or chai tea that can stand up to the rich flavors. Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced strawberries for a pop of natural tartness. For special occasions, they make an impressive addition to holiday brunch spreads with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for savory balance.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Cake Mix Shortcut:

• Use red velvet cake mix as base for quicker preparation
• Replace some flour with cake mix for convenience
• Still achieves beautiful color and flavor
• Perfect for busy holiday mornings

Cream Cheese Filled:

• Add sweetened cream cheese layer with cinnamon filling
• Creates extra richness and tangy flavor
• Roll carefully to prevent leaking
• Ultimate indulgent version

Mini Individual Rolls:

• Cut dough into smaller pieces for personal servings
• Bake in muffin tins for perfect portions
• Reduce baking time accordingly
• Great for gift-giving or parties

Make-Ahead Version:

• Prepare through cutting and arrange in pan
• Cover and refrigerate overnight
• Let come to room temperature and rise before baking
• Fresh-baked taste with easier timing

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl for dough preparation
• Kitchen scale for accurate measurements
• Rolling pin for even rectangle
• Sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts
• 9x13 baking dish for optimal spacing

Storage Tips

Best Fresh

Serve warm with frosting slightly melted for ultimate indulgence. The contrast between warm rolls and cool frosting creates the most satisfying eating experience.

Day-After Magic

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Warm gently in microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore that fresh-baked softness and enhance flavors.

Freezer Friendly

Freeze unfrosted baked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw completely and warm before adding fresh cream cheese frosting for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Holiday Magic in Every Bite

Now you have the secrets to creating these incredible red velvet cinnamon rolls that transform ordinary breakfast into something truly spectacular. This recipe proves that the most memorable treats combine familiar comfort with unexpected visual drama.

Ready for more special occasion baking? Try our Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies for easy red velvet treats, or explore our Red Velvet Cake for the classic layered dessert. For shortcut baking, our Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls offer similar convenience with different flavors.

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