Name: Fluffy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Icing Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Milk (Warmed to about 110°F); 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast (Ensure it’s fresh); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature); 1 tablespoon Red gel food dye; 3.5 cups All-purpose flour (Spoon and level for accuracy); 0.5 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (Can be replaced with Dutch-processed cocoa); 1 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 cup White granulated sugar (Can substitute with granulated cane sugar); 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (Room temperature); 0.5 cup Brown sugar (Light or dark can be used); 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon (Do not substitute); 0.5 cup Heavy cream (Use milk if necessary); 8 ounces Cream cheese (Room temperature); 0.25 cup Unsalted butter (Room temperature); 2 cups Powdered sugar (Sift for a smooth consistency); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Opt for pure extract); 1 tablespoon Milk (Adjusts consistency)

As the gentle aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, I can’t help but smile at the thought of these stunning Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. With their warm, inviting color and rich chocolate flavor, each soft roll envelops your senses, turning an ordinary breakfast into a festive celebration. Perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or a cozy Christmas morning, this recipe combines a touch of whimsy with comfort food flair. And the best part? They’re quick to prepare, making them a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Ready to bring a festive twist to your mornings? Let’s dive into the delightful world of these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

Why Should You Bake These Rolls?

Festive Flare: These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are an eye-catching delight, perfect for celebrations like Valentine’s Day or Christmas.

Decadent Flavor: Indulge in the rich combination of chocolate and cinnamon, enhanced by a creamy frosting that elevates every bite.

Easy to Make: Simple steps guarantee success, whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned baker.

Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for sharing, they’re sure to impress guests and family alike.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and simply reheat, perfect for busy mornings when you crave something special.

Transform your breakfast with these delightful rolls, and if you love a unique twist, consider trying our Soft Crescent Rolls for another delicious option!

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

• Get ready to bake something special!

For the Dough

Milk – Activates yeast, aiding in dough rise; use warmed milk at about 110°F for best results.
Active dry yeast – A key leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal activation.
Large eggs – Provides structure and richness; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
Red gel food dye – Enhances the color of the dough; substitute with another brand if preferred.
All-purpose flour – The main structure-building ingredient; spoon and level for accuracy, or weigh to prevent dryness.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds chocolate flavor; can be replaced with Dutch-processed cocoa for a different taste.
Salt – Balances sweetness while strengthening gluten; essential for flavor.
White granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough; can substitute with granulated cane sugar.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy incorporation.

For the Filling

Brown sugar – Offers sweetness and moisture; light or dark can be used interchangeably.
Ground cinnamon – Provides warm spice to the filling; do not substitute as it alters the flavor profile.
Heavy cream – Adds moisture during baking, creating gooey rolls; you can use milk if necessary.

For the Cream Cheese Icing

Cream cheese – Forms the base of the icing and gives a rich, tangy flavor; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; sift for a smooth consistency.
Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure extract for the best results.
Milk (for icing) – Adjusts the consistency; any milk type can be used.

Prepare to whisk your family and friends away with the scrumptious taste of these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming 1 cup of milk to about 110°F in a small saucepan. Once warmed, dissolve 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast into the milk, whisk gently, and let it sit for 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step is essential for creating fluffy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ cup of white granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly. Next, incorporate ½ cup of room temperature unsalted butter by mixing until the mixture resembles small pea-sized crumbs.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry
Add 2 large eggs, the frothy yeast mixture, and 1 tablespoon of red gel food dye to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading helps develop the gluten, ensuring your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are fluffy.

Step 4: First Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. It should double in size, becoming puffy and airy. This rise is crucial for the texture of your rolls, so be patient!

Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Use a spatula to mix until the ingredients form a smooth paste. This aromatic filling is what makes your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls irresistibly delicious.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Carefully spread the filling mixture evenly across the entire surface, making sure to reach the edges for maximum flavor.

Step 7: Shape Rolls
Starting from the short end of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Placing the rolls in a greased baking pan should create a lovely display and allow them to rise beautifully.

Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the rolls in the baking pan with a kitchen towel again and let them rise for an additional 20 minutes. This shorter rise is enough to puff them up slightly and get them ready for baking. You’ll notice they’ll become fluffy and soft.

Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F while the rolls are rising. Once ready, pour ½ cup of heavy cream evenly around the rolls in the pan, which helps keep them moist. Bake for 25-27 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls look irresistibly fluffy and airy.

Step 10: Make Icing
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese icing. In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar and a splash of milk, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until creamy and spreadable.

Step 11: Serve
Once your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are out of the oven and golden, drizzle the cream cheese icing generously over the warm rolls immediately. Let the icing melt slightly into the rolls for extra deliciousness. Serve them warm for a delightful breakfast or sweet treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a wonderful choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape it into rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the shaped rolls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly. Pour the heavy cream around the rolls just before baking, then pop them in the oven as usual for fresh, gooey rolls. This method maintains their soft texture, ensuring they are just as delicious as freshly made, and perfect for busy mornings!

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Proper Milk Temperature: Ensure your milk is warmed to about 110°F; this temperature activates the yeast properly, leading to fluffy rolls.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and butter to sit out before baking to ensure even mixing and a smoother dough.
Kneading Technique: Don’t skip the kneading step! Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes; this develops the gluten, ensuring soft Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
Rising Environment: For the best rise, place your dough in a warm, draft-free area—using an oven set to its lowest heat can help create an ideal environment.
Slicing Rolls: Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into rolls. A sharp blade helps maintain the roll shape, preventing squishing and keeping them uniformly fluffy.
Make Ahead Option: If you’d like to prepare these the night before, shape the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight; bake them fresh the next morning for a delightful treat!

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with delightful twists that your taste buds will adore!

Dairy-Free: Swap milk and butter with almond or coconut milk and dairy-free butter for a plant-based treat.
Extra Chocolate: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, gooey surprise inside every roll.
Fruity Flavor: Incorporate 1 cup of fresh raspberries or strawberries into the filling for a fruity twist that brightens the sweet chocolate flavor.
Nutty Texture: Toss in ½ cup of toasted pecans or walnuts in the filling for added crunch and flavor depth. Nuts bring warmth to the rolls making them even more comforting.
Citrus Zest: Mix in the zest of one orange into the cream cheese icing for a refreshing citrus burst that balances the sweetness. It’s a flavorful way to liven up your breakfast!
Maple Icing: Replace vanilla extract with maple extract in the icing for a delightful maple flavor that pairs beautifully with the cocoa.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s perfect for sharing with friends who follow a gluten-free diet.

Try pairing these tasty rolls with a warm cup of your favorite coffee, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can complement them with our Cinnamon Focaccia Brown for an exceptional brunch experience!

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Keep un-iced rolls covered at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Fridge: Store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uniced rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To warm frozen rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Drizzle with cream cheese icing just before serving for a warm, gooey treat!

What to Serve with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These enchanting rolls evoke a sense of warmth and joy, making every gathering an occasion to remember.

Warm Coffee: Pairing rich, robust coffee with these sweet rolls enhances the chocolate flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds balance to the sweetness of the rolls, providing a vibrant, light counterpart.
Savory Breakfast Sausages: The hearty, savory taste of breakfast sausage complements the sweetness perfectly, rounding out a well-balanced breakfast.
Coconut Milk Smoothie: A creamy coconut smoothie elevates the tropical element of your meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm rolls.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle warm maple syrup over the rolls, enhancing their flavor and indulgence.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: A cozy cup of spiced hot chocolate contrasts with the rolls’ creaminess while pairing beautifully for a festive treat.
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: Top the warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for sharing.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, look for fresh active dry yeast—check the expiration date to ensure it’s potent. For milk, choose whole or 2% milk for creaminess; avoid anything that’s about to expire. When selecting eggs, opt for large, Grade A eggs without cracks, as they provide the best structure and richness to your dough.

What is the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Very! To keep your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For optimal taste, wrap the rolls individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This helps prevent drying out and maintains their soft texture.

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze uniced Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls after baking. To do this, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
No worries! If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to stale yeast or too cold an environment. First, ensure your yeast is fresh; if it fails to bubble in warm milk, it won’t work. For a quicker rise, place the dough in an oven set to its lowest temperature for about 10 minutes. Just be careful not to get it too warm; you want a warm but not hot setting.

Are these rolls safe for people with allergies?
Very! Keep in mind that this recipe contains common allergens such as dairy and eggs. If you’re baking for someone with a specific allergy, consider using plant-based milk and egg substitutes, like flaxseed meal mixed with water, to create a suitable alternative. Always read ingredient labels for safety; I recommend consulting with the person you’re serving if they have dietary restrictions.

How long does the cream cheese icing last?
Absolutely! Cream cheese icing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other smells. If you have leftovers, you can use it on other baked goods or even as a fruit dip—so versatile!