Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: A Sweet Indulgence
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are a delightful experience that combines the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the warm, comforting essence of cinnamon rolls. Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked rolls, their vibrant red hue promising a taste that is both indulgent and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or simply to brighten up a regular morning.
The history of red velvet cake dates back to the early 20th century, often associated with Southern cuisine and special celebrations. Over the years, this beloved dessert has evolved, inspiring creative variations like the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls we’re about to explore. People adore this dish not only for its stunning appearance but also for its unique flavor profile—sweet, slightly tangy, and oh-so-soft. The combination of fluffy dough and a rich cream cheese frosting makes these rolls a favorite for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.
Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate!

Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Preparing the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preparing the Cinnamon Filling
- While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- If you’re using nuts, fold them into the mixture for added texture and flavor.
Rolling and Assembling the Cinnamon Rolls
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface.
- Roll the dough out into a rectangle, approximately 16×24 inches in size, with a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Cooking the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach

Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic breakfast treat, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are an absolute must-try! The combination of rich, velvety red cocoa and the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon creates a unique and indulgent experience that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to treat yourself and your loved ones, these rolls are sure to impress. The vibrant color and delicious taste make them not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight that will brighten up your table.
For serving suggestions, I highly recommend pairing these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with a generous drizzle of cream cheese frosting. The tangy sweetness of the frosting complements the rich flavors of the rolls beautifully. You can also serve them warm with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Another fun variation is to experiment with different frostings. While cream cheese is a classic choice, you could try a simple vanilla glaze or even a chocolate ganache for a decadent twist. You can also make mini versions of these rolls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday parties. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative with your toppings and fillings!
I truly believe that once you try these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, they will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. They are not only delicious but also a fun way to bring a little joy and color to your kitchen. I invite you to give this recipe a go and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let them know how much you enjoyed making and eating these scrumptious rolls.
If you have any tips or variations of your own, I would love to hear about them! Your feedback and creativity can inspire others to try this recipe and make it their own. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! You won’t regret it, and I can’t wait to see how your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls turn out!
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat
Indulge in these delightful red velvet cinnamon rolls, featuring a rich cocoa dough filled with a sweet cinnamon mixture and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Ingredients
- cocoa dough
- cinnamon filling
- cream cheese frosting
- nutmeg (optional)
- nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon filling.
- These cinnamon rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Feel free to substitute the nuts in the filling with your favorite type of nut or omit them entirely.




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