If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a soft, sweet, and slightly tangy roll that practically melts in your mouth, then Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are your new best friend. Imagine the classic cinnamon roll you love, dressed in a gorgeous red hue, and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting.

Freshly baked red velvet cinnamon rolls with cream cheese glaze for Christmas.

Whether you’re serving them with hot cocoa by the tree or bringing them to a holiday brunch, these rolls are beginner-friendly, easy to prepare ahead, and irresistibly delicious.

Table of Contents

What Makes Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Special

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a breakfast treat—they’re a sensory experience. Unlike regular cinnamon rolls, the addition of cocoa powder and red food coloring gives them that iconic red velvet look and a subtle chocolatey undertone. Paired with the classic cream cheese frosting, these rolls hit all the right notes: sweet, tangy, and irresistibly soft.

What sets them apart is also the texture. The dough is tender yet fluffy, offering a perfect contrast to the rich, gooey filling. One bite, and you’ll understand why they’re a showstopper for brunches and dessert tables alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Essential Baking Ingredients

To make about 12 Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
½ tsp salt
¾ cup whole milk, warmed
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp red food coloring

For the Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp cocoa powder

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk, as needed for desired consistency

These measurements are carefully balanced to give you soft, fluffy rolls with the perfect swirl of red velvet cinnamon flavor.

Optional Additions and Flavor Enhancers

Chopped walnuts or pecans – ¼ cup, for added crunch
White chocolate chips – ¼ cup, optional sweetness boost
Sprinkles – As desired, for a festive touch

By using these precise measurements, you ensure that every batch of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls comes out consistently soft, fluffy, and irresistible.

Tools and Equipment for Perfect Rolls

Must-Have Baking Tools

Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls is easier and more enjoyable when you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing bowls – One large bowl for the dough and a small one for the filling.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to perfect rolls.
Stand mixer or hand mixer – Optional, but helps knead the dough more efficiently.
Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the dough evenly.
Baking pan – A 9×13-inch pan works perfectly for 12 rolls.
Pastry brush – For spreading butter and other fillings evenly.
Spatula or dough scraper – To handle sticky dough without a mess.

Having these tools ready will make your baking process smoother, faster, and less stressful.

Kitchen Hacks to Simplify the Process

Warm your milk – Yeast activates best in warm liquids (around 110°F).
Line your pan with parchment paper – Easier cleanup and prevents sticking.
Use softened butter – Makes spreading the filling effortless.
Chill the dough slightly if too sticky – A few minutes in the fridge helps with rolling.
Measure flour correctly – Spoon and level flour to avoid dry or tough rolls.

With these tools and simple hacks, even beginner bakers can achieve soft, fluffy, and beautifully swirled Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls every time.

Preparing the Dough

Mixing Ingredients for the Softest Dough

Making the perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls starts with a tender, fluffy dough. Follow these steps carefully:

In a small bowl, warm ¾ cup of milk to about 110°F. Stir in 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast and 1 tbsp sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This proves the yeast is active.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ½ tsp salt, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, and 2 tbsp red food coloring. Mix well.
Add 2 large eggs, ¼ cup melted butter, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

The goal is a dough that is soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.

Tips for Kneading and Resting the Dough

Kneading by hand: Sprinkle a little flour on your surface to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much flour, which can make the rolls dense.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Punching down: Gently punch the dough to release air bubbles before rolling it out. This ensures even texture and prevents large holes in your rolls.
Patience is key: Don’t rush the rise—this is what gives your rolls that soft, pillow-like texture.

With the dough properly prepared, you’re ready to move on to the next step: creating the sweet red velvet filling that makes these cinnamon rolls irresistible.

Creating the Red Velvet Filling

The Classic Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

The filling is what makes Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls irresistible. To make it:

In a small bowl, combine ¾ cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon, and 1 tbsp cocoa powder.
Mix thoroughly to ensure the cocoa and cinnamon are evenly distributed.
Add ½ cup softened butter and stir until you have a smooth, spreadable paste.

This sweet and slightly chocolatey mixture will give your rolls that signature red velvet flavor while perfectly complementing the soft, fluffy dough.

Adding Cocoa and Red Food Coloring for Red Velvet Magic

For an extra pop of red velvet magic, make sure your dough contains 2 tbsp cocoa powder and 2 tbsp red food coloring.
The cocoa adds a subtle chocolate undertone that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon filling.
The red food coloring ensures that vibrant red hue, creating that iconic “wow” factor when the rolls are sliced.

Pro Tip: Spread the filling evenly to the edges of the dough to get a beautiful swirl in every bite. You can also sprinkle optional white chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top of the filling for extra indulgence.

With the filling ready, it’s time to roll, shape, and prepare your rolls for baking in the next step.

Rolling and Shaping the Rolls

Step-by-Step Rolling Technique

Creating perfect spirals is all about technique. Follow these steps:

On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough into a rectangle about 16×12 inches. Keep the thickness around ½ inch.
Spread the prepared Red Velvet filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along the top edge to seal the rolls.
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Don’t rush—rolling too quickly can squish the filling out.
Pinch the seam at the top to seal it, ensuring the rolls hold their shape while baking.

Cutting and Arranging in the Baking Pan

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 even rolls, about 1 ½ inches wide.
Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Arrange the rolls in the pan, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and allow the rolls to rise for 30–45 minutes, or until they are slightly puffy.

Following these steps guarantees rolls with beautifully defined swirls and even baking. The secret is gentle handling and allowing the dough to rest before baking—this helps achieve that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Baking and Frosting Tips

Baking Times and Temperature Guide

To bake Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls perfectly:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on top. Avoid overbaking, as it can dry out the soft, fluffy interior.
Check for doneness by gently pressing the top—if it springs back slightly, the rolls are ready.

Pro Tip: For extra softness, cover the rolls with foil during the last 10 minutes if they are browning too quickly.

Choosing the Perfect Frosting: Cream Cheese vs Glaze

Cream Cheese Frosting: The classic choice. Mix 4 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, ½ tsp vanilla extract, and 1–2 tbsp milk until smooth. Spread generously on warm rolls for a gooey finish.
Simple Glaze: For a lighter option, mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp milk and a few drops of vanilla extract. Drizzle over warm rolls for a sweet, shiny topping.

Pro Tip: Frost your rolls while still slightly warm to allow the frosting to melt slightly into the crevices, creating that perfect gooey texture.

Don’t miss our red velvet cream cheese muffins for another delightful breakfast option: Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Serving, Storing, and Reheating

How to Serve for Maximum Yum

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Here are some serving tips:

Individual servings: Place one or two rolls on a plate and drizzle extra cream cheese frosting for a decadent touch.
Family-style: Serve the entire pan on the table for brunch—everyone can pull their own warm roll.
Pairing suggestions: Complement with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a fresh fruit smoothie. The creamy frosting and soft dough pair beautifully with a slightly bitter or fruity beverage.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls fresh baked with cream cheese frosting

Storing Tips to Keep Rolls Soft and Fresh

Room temperature: Cover baked rolls with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Frost after reheating to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm before serving.

Reheating Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Microwave: Heat a single roll for 20–30 seconds for a soft, warm treat.
Oven: Preheat to 325°F (165°C), cover rolls with foil, and bake for 10–12 minutes. This method preserves texture better than the microwave.
Tip: Always add frosting after reheating if stored frozen, for the best flavor and creaminess.

With these tips, you can enjoy your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls anytime, keeping them soft, sweet, and indulgent.

FAQs About Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

1. What are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious twist on classic cinnamon rolls. They combine the soft, fluffy texture of traditional rolls with cocoa, red food coloring, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, topped with creamy frosting. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

2. How do you make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch?

Making them from scratch involves preparing a soft yeast dough, spreading the red velvet cinnamon filling, rolling the dough into spirals, allowing it to rise, and then baking. Finish with cream cheese frosting for the classic taste.

3. Can I use cream cheese frosting for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting is the classic topping for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. It balances the sweetness of the dough and adds a tangy, creamy finish that melts into the rolls.

4. How long do Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls stay fresh?

At room temperature, they stay fresh for about 2 days. In the refrigerator, they last up to 5 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended for up to 2 months.

5. Can Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls be frozen?

Yes! Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate sweet breakfast treat—soft, fluffy, and indulgent. With this guide, you can confidently make them from scratch, customize fillings and frostings, and store them for later enjoyment.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: Best Christmas Bakes

Author: Angie
Total Time: 2 hours 25–30 minutes

Print Recipe

Description

Soft, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a vibrant red swirl, rich cinnamon-cocoa filling, and creamy cream cheese frosting, they’re sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
½ tsp salt
¾ cup whole milk, warmed
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp red food coloring

Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp cocoa powder

Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for desired consistency)

Optional Additions:

¼ cup chopped nuts
¼ cup white chocolate chips
Sprinkles, as desired

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Activate Yeast: Warm milk to 110°F and mix with yeast and 1 tbsp sugar. Let it sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Prepare Dough: Mix flour, sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Add eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth.
First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
Prepare Filling: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and softened butter until smooth.
Roll and Fill: Roll dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle, spread filling evenly, and roll into a log. Seal the edge.
Cut Rolls: Slice into 12 even rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Let rise 30–45 minutes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake 25–30 minutes. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
Frosting: Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Frost rolls while warm.
Serve: Enjoy warm, with coffee, hot chocolate, or a smoothie.

Notes

Use warm milk to activate yeast properly.

Do not overwork the dough; gentle kneading keeps rolls soft.

Allow rolls to rise properly for fluffy texture.

Frost rolls while slightly warm for the gooey, melty effect.

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container or freeze for later.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 12 rolls