I still remember the moment I pulled this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe out of the oven for the first time. The deep red color, the warm cinnamon aroma, and that soft, fluffy texture instantly told me this recipe was something special. I’ve made classic cinnamon rolls many times, but this red velvet version felt extra indulgent.
The hint of cocoa, the gooey cinnamon filling, and the creamy frosting made every bite irresistible. After sharing them with family, I knew this was a recipe worth repeating again and again. If you enjoy baked treats, you can also enjoy similar ideas like Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs Recipe for a wholesome breakfast twist.
Ingredients
• 1 cup warm milk – Warm milk helps activate the yeast properly; avoid overheating or it can kill the yeast.
• ½ cup white sugar – Adds mild sweetness and helps the yeast rise better.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Keeps the dough soft and rich; unsalted lets you control salt levels.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast – Creates light, fluffy rolls with a reliable rise.
• 2 eggs – Add structure, moisture, and richness to the dough.
• ½ cup full-fat sour cream – Makes the dough extra soft and tender; low-fat versions won’t give the same result.
• 4½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the perfect texture for rolling and shaping the dough.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds subtle chocolate flavor typical of red velvet.
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring – Gives the rolls their classic deep red color.
For the Filling
• ½ cup softened butter – Spreads easily and helps the cinnamon sugar stick evenly.
• ¾ cup brown sugar – Creates a gooey, caramel-like center.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – Adds warm spice and classic cinnamon roll flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Icing
• ¼ cup butter, room temperature – Ensures a smooth and creamy frosting.
• ½ cup cream cheese, room temperature – Adds tangy richness that balances sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the icing.
• 1½ cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Helps adjust icing consistency for spreading or drizzling.
Note: This recipe makes approximately 12 servings, depending on how thick the rolls are sliced.
Variations
This recipe is easy to customize based on taste or dietary needs.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan cream cheese.
• Sugar-free: Replace sugars with a baking-friendly sugar substitute.
• Chocolate lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the filling before rolling.
• Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and texture.
• Mini rolls: Slice the dough thinner for bite-sized cinnamon rolls. If you’re looking for breakfast ideas beyond sweet treats, you can also try the Healthy Breakfast Sandwich Recipe for a savory start to the day.
Cooking Time
• Prep Time: 3 hours (includes rising time)
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
• Stand mixer with dough hook – Makes kneading easier and faster
• Mixing bowls – For preparing dough and filling
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate measurements
• Rolling pin – Helps roll the dough evenly
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size for baking 12 rolls evenly
How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Prepare the Dough
Start by combining warm milk, sugar, melted butter, salt, yeast, and red food coloring in a mixing bowl. Add eggs and sour cream, then gradually mix in flour and cocoa powder. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which usually takes one to two hours.
Roll and Fill
Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the top.
Shape the Rolls
Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 equal slices. Place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow them to rise again for about one hour.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 35–40 minutes until they are puffed and lightly golden on top.
Make the Icing
While the rolls cool slightly, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, adjusting the consistency as needed. Spread over warm rolls.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
After making these rolls several times, here’s what I’ve learned:
• I always use room-temperature ingredients for smoother dough and frosting.
• I don’t over-flour the dough; slightly sticky dough makes softer rolls.
• I let the rolls cool just a little before icing so it melts perfectly.
• I slice the dough using unflavored dental floss for clean cuts.
• I cover the rolls loosely while baking if they brown too quickly.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
I love serving these warm with extra cream cheese frosting drizzled on top. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cocoa powder adds a beautiful finish. They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, making them ideal for brunch, holidays, or special mornings.
Nutritional Information
Each roll offers a satisfying balance of sweetness and richness.
• Calories: Approximately 470 per serving
• Protein: Around 8g
• Carbohydrates: About 70g
• Fat: Roughly 19g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Freeze baked rolls without icing for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds or warm them in the oven until soft and fluffy again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe has everything you want in a homemade treat.
• It’s soft, fluffy, and rich with classic red velvet flavor.
• The recipe is easy to customize for different tastes and diets.
• The cream cheese frosting adds a perfect sweet-tangy finish.
• It’s ideal for holidays, brunches, and special occasions.
• The rolls stay moist and delicious even the next day.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by combining warm milk, sugar, melted butter, salt, yeast, and red food coloring in a mixing bowl. Add eggs and sour cream, then gradually mix in flour and cocoa powder. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which usually takes one to two hours.
- Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the top.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 equal slices. Place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow them to rise again for about one hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 35–40 minutes until they are puffed and lightly golden on top.
- While the rolls cool slightly, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, adjusting the consistency as needed. Spread over warm rolls.
Notes
- I always use room-temperature ingredients for smoother dough and frosting.
- I don’t over-flour the dough; slightly sticky dough makes softer rolls.
- I let the rolls cool just a little before icing so it melts perfectly.
- I slice the dough using unflavored dental floss for clean cuts.
- I cover the rolls loosely while baking if they brown too quickly.