Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are a luxurious twist on the traditional cinnamon roll, featuring tender red velvet dough swirled with cinnamon sugar filling and topped with rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. These rolls are visually stunning and irresistibly delicious, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vibrant Presentation: The deep red dough and creamy white frosting make an eye-catching treat.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Yeast dough creates pillowy rolls that melt in your mouth.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet cinnamon filling pairs beautifully with slightly tangy cream cheese topping.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Great for holidays, birthdays, or impressing guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Instant yeast
• Salt
• Whole milk
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs
• Red food coloring
• Vanilla extract

For the cinnamon filling:

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter (softened)

For the cream cheese frosting:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk and combine with melted butter, sugar, and red food coloring. Add yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes. Mix in eggs and vanilla, then gradually add flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Knead until smooth. Let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
2. Roll and Fill: Roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into equal slices. Place in a greased baking dish. Let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
4. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until puffed and golden.
5. Make the Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Mix until fluffy.
6. Frost and Serve: Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Mini Rolls: Slice into smaller pieces for bite-sized versions.
• Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for extra indulgence.
• Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before frosting.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave briefly before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes, you can let the shaped rolls rise in the fridge overnight and bake them fresh the next morning.

Do I need a stand mixer?

A stand mixer makes kneading easier, but you can knead the dough by hand until smooth and elastic.

How red should the dough be?

The dough should have a vibrant red hue, but you can adjust the food coloring amount to your preference.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

Yes, just proof it in warm milk with sugar before mixing into the dough.

Is it necessary to use cocoa powder?

Yes, it gives red velvet its signature mild chocolate flavor.

Can I add more spices?

Absolutely. Nutmeg or allspice can enhance the warmth of the cinnamon filling.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat block cream cheese works best for thick, rich frosting.

How do I prevent the rolls from overbaking?

Check doneness at the 25-minute mark. The rolls should be lightly golden and soft to the touch.

Can I use a different frosting?

Yes, vanilla glaze or whipped cream cheese icing are good alternatives.

What’s the best way to cut the rolls?

Use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife to slice cleanly without squishing the dough.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are an indulgent, bakery-style treat that’s perfect for special mornings or dessert spreads. With their stunning color, rich flavor, and velvety frosting, these rolls are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every sweet craving.

Print