Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Get Ready for a Sweet Treat!
Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, with a rich red velvet twist. These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not just your average breakfast pastry; they’re a delightful treat that makes any morning feel like a special occasion. Each fluffy roll is swirled with sweet cinnamon and topped with a luscious cream cheese icing, making every bite an indulgence you won’t forget. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe on hand!

Why Make This Recipe
Looking for a reason to dive into these delicious rolls? Here are a few to sweeten the deal:
- Easy and Fun: Making cinnamon rolls allows you to unleash your inner baker without the need for complex techniques. Just mix, roll, and enjoy!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual Sunday brunch or a holiday gathering, these red velvet rolls are sure to impress.
- Minimal Cleanup: Who likes washing a ton of dishes? You’ll only need a few bowls and a rolling pin for this recipe, leaving you more time to enjoy and less to clean.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk
Directions
Ready to roll? Here’s how to make your delicious Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls:
- In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and knead until smooth.
- Let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut into rolls. Place in a greased baking dish.
- Let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until set.
- For the icing, mix cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over warm rolls and serve.
How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls (Overview)
Making these rolls is as easy as 1-2-3! Start by mixing your dry ingredients in one bowl and your wet ingredients in another. Once combined, knead your dough until it’s all smooth and lovely. After letting it rise, roll it out and fill it with that delectably sweet cinnamon-sugar combo. Cut, place, and wait again—trust the process! Pro tip: Don’t rush the rising time; it’s essential for fluffiness!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Serve these dreamy rolls warm and fresh out of the oven. Optionally, add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few chopped nuts for some crunch. The vibrant red color combined with creamy icing makes for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite tea, and breathe in that cozy aroma—it’s simply blissful!
How to Store Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Need to save some for later? No problem! These rolls will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. If you want to stretch their life, pop them in the freezer, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for that warm, freshly-baked taste!
Tips to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Here are a few insider tricks to elevate your cinnamon roll game:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough rise well and gives you that perfect fluffy texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Think about adding chocolate chips or nuts for a twist!
- Grease Your Hands: This makes handling the dough and rolling it easier—no more sticky situations!
Variation
Want to switch things up? You can easily make these rolls vegan by swapping the egg for a flaxseed meal mixed with water and using plant-based milk and butter. Craving something different? Try adding crushed peppermint for a fun holiday twist or swap the cocoa powder for matcha for a unique flavor!
FAQs
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the rolls and place them in your baking dish in the fridge overnight. Just let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
What if I don’t have active dry yeast?
You can substitute with instant yeast—just skip the proofing step, and mix it in with your dry ingredients directly.
Can I freeze baked rolls?
Yes! Just ensure they cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to indulge!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and knead until smooth.
- Let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
- Spread butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut into rolls.
- Place in a greased baking dish.
- Let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until set.
- Mix cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over warm rolls and serve.