Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: all-purpose flour; red food coloring; cocoa powder; butter; brown sugar; cinnamon; cream cheese; powdered sugar; vanilla extract; active dry yeast; warm milk; eggs

Close up of homemade red velvet cinnamon rolls with cream cheese glaze dripping down the sides | lonerecipes.com

I discovered red velvet cinnamon rolls quite by accident when I was experimenting with different ways to use red velvet cake mix. The idea struck me while I was making regular cinnamon rolls one weekend morning - why not combine two of my favorite treats? The process is similar to traditional cinnamon rolls, but the addition of red food coloring and a touch of cocoa powder transforms them into something truly special. The dough has this beautiful deep red color that creates the most gorgeous swirls when rolled up with the cinnamon sugar filling. What really makes these special is how the red velvet flavor - that subtle chocolate taste with a hint of tanginess - pairs so perfectly with warm cinnamon. The cream cheese glaze isn't just decoration; it's essential to the red velvet experience and adds that signature tangy sweetness that makes these rolls absolutely irresistible.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely adore about this recipe is how it elevates the humble cinnamon roll into something truly spectacular. The visual impact alone is worth the effort - that stunning red swirl pattern never fails to impress guests and family alike. But beyond the looks, the flavor combination is pure genius. The subtle chocolate notes from the red velvet complement the warm spices perfectly, creating layers of flavor that regular cinnamon rolls simply can't match. I love how versatile this recipe is too - you can make them for romantic occasions, holidays, or just because you want to treat yourself to something special. The texture is incredibly soft and pillowy, and that cream cheese glaze adds the perfect creamy finish. Every time I make these, I'm reminded why they've become one of my signature baking achievements. They represent everything I love about baking - combining creativity with comfort food to create something that brings joy to everyone who tries them.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

All-purpose flour: Forms the base structure of the dough
Red food coloring: Creates the signature vibrant red color
Cocoa powder: Adds the subtle chocolate flavor characteristic of red velvet
Brown sugar: Sweetens the cinnamon filling
Cream cheese: Creates the rich, tangy glaze
Active dry yeast: Makes the dough rise and become fluffy

Let's Make These Together

Activate the yeast mixture: Start by combining your warm milk with yeast in a large bowl. The milk should feel just warm to the touch, not hot, as this will kill the yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy on top - this tells you the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Create the red velvet dough: Add your melted butter, eggs, red food coloring, and cocoa powder to the yeast mixture. The cocoa powder gives that subtle chocolate flavor that makes red velvet special, while the food coloring creates that stunning red hue. Mix everything together until well combined.
Knead to perfection: Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You'll know it's ready when it springs back when poked gently.
Let it rise beautifully: Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. The dough should double in size during this time, becoming light and airy.
Roll and fill with love: Roll the risen dough into an 18x12 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly across the surface, then sprinkle with your brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. This creates those delicious sweet swirls throughout each roll.

Recipe picture — Gourmet red velvet cinnamon rolls with swirled pattern and creamy glaze topping | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I first made these red velvet cinnamon rolls for Valentine's Day morning, and they were such a hit that they've become a regular request in my household. What I love most is watching people's faces when they see the beautiful red swirls - there's always this moment of surprise and delight. I've experimented with different glazes over the years, but the classic cream cheese version remains unbeatable. The trick I've learned is to not overbake them - they should still be slightly soft in the center when you pull them out. Sometimes I'll make the dough the night before and let it do a slow rise in the fridge, which actually develops even better flavor.

Perfect Pairings

These red velvet cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent breakfast spread, serve them alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. They also complement fresh berries wonderfully - strawberries and raspberries especially enhance the red velvet theme. For special occasions, try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Three perfectly baked red velvet cinnamon rolls in white baking dish with glossy white frosting | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?: Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking, which may take 30-45 minutes.
→ What if my dough isn't red enough?: Add more gel food coloring gradually until you achieve the desired color. Liquid food coloring can make the dough too wet, so gel or paste works best.
→ Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?: Absolutely! Bake them completely, let cool, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.
→ Why is my dough not rising?: Check that your yeast isn't expired and that your milk wasn't too hot (which kills yeast). The rising environment should be warm but not hot - around 75-80°F is ideal.
→ Can I use a different type of glaze?: While cream cheese glaze is traditional for red velvet, you can use vanilla glaze or even a simple powdered sugar and milk mixture if preferred.

Conclusion

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are the perfect combination of classic comfort food and elegant presentation. The rich red velvet flavor paired with warm cinnamon creates an unforgettable taste experience. Whether you're serving them for a special brunch or weekend treat, they're guaranteed to impress. The cream cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch that makes each bite absolutely divine.