Looking to impress at brunch or make a breakfast that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? These Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are your show-stopping answer. With a rich, vibrant red velvet dough, swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling, and a silky cream cheese frosting on top, every bite melts in your mouth. They’re soft, fluffy, and indulgent—perfect for holidays, Valentine’s Day, Christmas morning, birthdays, or just because!
Whether you’re treating loved ones or just treating yourself, these rolls deliver cozy flavor with a festive twist. And for a little extra indulgence? Sprinkle in mini chocolate chips before rolling—your taste buds will thank you.
❤️ Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Rolls
- Vibrant and festive – that deep red color is pure eye candy.
- Perfectly soft and fluffy – thanks to warm milk and a touch of butter.
- Classic cinnamon roll meets red velvet cake – with a swirl of nostalgia.
- Topped with dreamy cream cheese frosting – sweet, tangy, and oh-so-smooth.
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert – anytime is cinnamon roll time!
📝 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–4 tbsp milk (to reach desired consistency)
👩🍳 How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla. Stir wet ingredients into dry, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead & Let It Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.
Step 4: Roll & Fill
Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with mini chocolate chips if using.
Step 5: Slice & Second Rise
Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice into 12 even pieces. Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese and butter. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until the frosting is thick and spreadable.
Step 8: Frost & Enjoy
Let the rolls cool slightly, then spread generously with cream cheese frosting. Serve warm and savor every bite!
💡 Tips & Variations
- For a deeper red velvet flavor, add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the dough.
- Prep the night before and refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temp and bake.
- Want them even sweeter? Drizzle with melted white chocolate after frosting.
- No mini chocolate chips? Try chopped white chocolate or leave them out.
🥡 Storing Leftovers
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for that just-baked softness.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Make the dough, shape the rolls, and refrigerate overnight. Let them rise at room temp before baking.
How do I keep them soft?
Store in an airtight container. When reheating, microwave with a damp paper towel on top to keep them moist.