Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls With Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

The Dreamiest Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls With Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Weekends deserve something special, and these red velvet cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing will steal your heart instantly.

Warm, decadent spices blend seamlessly with rich cocoa undertones.

The deep crimson swirls promise a luxurious breakfast treat that’s both indulgent and comforting.

Soft, pillowy dough carries layers of velvety goodness that melt in your mouth.

Each roll brings a perfect balance of sweetness and classic cinnamon warmth.

The cream cheese icing adds a tangy, silky finish that elevates these rolls from ordinary to extraordinary.

Prepare to savor every single delightful bite of this show-stopping breakfast sensation.

Storing Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Cream Cheese

  • Store the red velvet cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Add a quick sprinkle of water before reheating to keep them moist and fresh.
  • If serving within 24 hours, keep rolls covered at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Consume within a day for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

  • Why is red food coloring used in this recipe?

Red food coloring gives the cinnamon rolls their signature red velvet appearance, creating a visually stunning dessert that mimics the classic red velvet cake color while maintaining the traditional cinnamon roll flavor.

  • Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After the first rise, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and shaping the rolls.

  • What if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading. The goal is a smooth, elastic dough that’s not too dry or too wet.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Cream Cheese Perks

  • Unleash Vibrant Flavor: Red velvet transforms classic cinnamon rolls into a stunning dessert with its rich, luxurious color and chocolate undertones that make every bite an exciting experience.
  • Beginner Baker Friendly: This recipe requires basic baking skills, with clear step-by-step instructions that guide even novice bakers through creating professional-looking, delectable rolls without intimidation.
  • Perfect for Special Celebrations: These gorgeous red velvet rolls elevate any gathering, from brunch parties to holiday mornings, offering a show-stopping treat that impresses guests with minimal complex techniques.
  • Customizable Comfort: Bakers can easily adjust roll sizes, adjust sweetness levels, and experiment with icing consistency, making this recipe wonderfully adaptable to personal preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Cream Cheese

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A key component that provides structure and texture to the Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.
  • Cocoa Powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor and contributes to the signature red velvet color.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Milk: Activates the yeast and helps create a soft, tender dough.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb in both the dough and filling.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
  • Red Food Coloring: Creates the classic red velvet appearance.
Sweet and Filling Ingredients:
  • Yeast: Helps the dough rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and help with caramelization.
  • Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.
Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese, Butter: Create a rich, creamy base for the icing.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps thicken the icing.
  • Heavy Cream: Helps achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Cream Cheese

Step 1: Awaken the Yeast

Grab a small bowl and combine warm milk, yeast, and a touch of sugar.

Let this magical mixture sit and bubble for 5-10 minutes until it becomes gloriously foamy.

Step 2: Create the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Melted butter
  • Whole egg
  • Extra egg yolk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Vibrant red food coloring
Fold in your dry ingredients:
  • Flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Salt
  • Remaining sugar

Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes silky smooth.

If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it lovingly, and let it rise for an hour until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Craft the Filling

Blend softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until they become a delectable, cohesive mixture.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Roll out your dough into a beautiful 12×16-inch rectangle on a flour-dusted surface.

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough.

Carefully roll the dough from the long side, creating a tight spiral.

Slice into 8-12 heavenly rolls.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Nestle the rolls into a greased baking dish.

Cover and let them rise for 30 minutes.

Heat the oven to 350F (175C).

Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re puffy and golden brown.

Step 6: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Icing

Beat cream cheese and butter until they become smooth and dreamy.

Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream.

Mix until the icing reaches a luscious, creamy consistency.

Step 7: Finish and Indulge

Lavish the warm rolls with the cream cheese icing, watching it melt into those delightful swirls.

Prepare for a mouthwatering experience!

Top Tips for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Cream Cheese

  • Ensure milk is warm (110-115°F) to help yeast bloom perfectly without killing it.
  • Add flour gradually if dough feels sticky, aiming for smooth, elastic texture that doesn't stick to hands.
  • Use gel food coloring for deeper, more vibrant red velvet color without altering dough moisture.
  • Use a ruler to create even rectangle and roll tightly for uniform, beautiful swirls in each cinnamon roll.
  • Check rolls at 18 minutes and cover with foil if browning too quickly to maintain soft, tender texture.

Fun Flavors for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Cream Cheese

  • Vegan Velvet Delight: Replace dairy milk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, swap eggs with flax eggs, and choose vegan cream cheese for icing.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Rolls: Substitute wheat flour with gluten-free flour blend, use xanthan gum for binding, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Version: Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener, use sugar-free cream cheese, and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Lovers' Variation: Increase cocoa powder quantity, add dark chocolate chips to filling, and incorporate chocolate extract for deeper chocolate notes.

Ways to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Cream Cheese

  • Brunch Bliss Centerpiece: These red velvet cinnamon rolls make a stunning show-stopping centerpiece for weekend brunches, perfectly complementing fresh fruit platters and mimosas.
  • Coffee Companion Delight: Pair these warm, gooey rolls with a rich espresso or creamy latte for an indulgent morning treat that elevates your coffee ritual.
  • Gifting Gourmet Option: Wrap individual rolls in parchment paper with a cute ribbon for a homemade gift that will impress friends, family, or holiday hosts with your baking skills.
  • Valentine's Day Special: The red color and luxurious cream cheese icing make these rolls an ideal romantic breakfast surprise for your sweetheart, creating a memorable morning moment.
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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls With Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls With Cream Cheese Icing Recipe


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4.5 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent red velvet cinnamon rolls elevate breakfast with southern charm and luxurious cream cheese icing. Pillowy swirls of rich cocoa and warm spices promise a delightful morning treat you’ll savor with pure culinary pleasure.


Ingredients

Scale

Red Velvet Dough:

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) warm milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 12 teaspoons red gel food coloring

Dry Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (375 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Cinnamon Filling:

  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (220 grams) brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Icing:

  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Awaken the yeast by combining warm milk, yeast, and a touch of sugar in a petite vessel. Allow the mixture to bloom and become frothy for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Craft the vibrant dough by whisking melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and red food coloring in a spacious mixing bowl. Incorporate flour, cocoa powder, salt, and remaining sugar until a cohesive dough emerges. Knead thoroughly for 8-10 minutes, achieving a smooth, elastic texture. If the dough feels tacky, dust with additional flour. Transfer to a greased bowl, drape with a cloth, and let rise in a warm environment for 1 hour until volume doubles.
  3. Prepare the aromatic filling by blending softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until harmoniously combined.
  4. Transform the risen dough into a rectangular canvas measuring 12×16 inches on a flour-dusted surface. Generously distribute the cinnamon filling across the dough. Tightly roll from the lengthy edge, creating a cylindrical log. Slice into 8-12 individual rolls.
  5. Nestle the rolls in a greased baking dish. Shield and permit a secondary rise for 30 minutes. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until they achieve a golden, puffy perfection.
  6. Whip the cream cheese icing by beating cream cheese and butter until silky. Integrate powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Blend until luxuriously creamy.
  7. Lavish the warm rolls with the decadent icing, allowing it to seep into the spiraled crevices.

Notes

  • Activate Yeast Carefully to ensure proper proofing, use milk that’s warm (110-115°F) but not hot, which can kill the yeast.
  • Control Color Intensity adjust red food coloring amount for deeper or lighter red velvet hue without affecting dough texture.
  • Moisture Management knead dough gently and avoid adding too much flour to maintain soft, tender roll consistency.
  • Allergen-Friendly Swaps substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk, and use gluten-free flour blend for alternative dietary needs.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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