Imagine the perfect marriage of rich red velvet and warm cinnamon rolls, all crowned with tangy cream cheese glaze! These decadent rolls combine two beloved treats into one showstopping breakfast that’s perfect for special mornings or indulgent weekends. The striking red swirls don’t just look impressive, they deliver that subtle cocoa flavor that makes red velvet so irresistible. Whether for holiday traditions or “just because” moments, these homemade pastries will have everyone reaching for seconds. Ready to create something truly special? Let’s transform your kitchen into the best bakery in town!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These red velvet cinnamon rolls elevate breakfast to a whole new level! Here’s why they’re worth every minute in the kitchen:

Uniquely delicious – The hint of cocoa in the red velvet dough perfectly complements the warm cinnamon filling, creating a flavor profile that’s truly special.
Make-ahead magic – Prep the night before and bake in the morning for fresh, warm rolls without the early wake-up call.
Instagram-worthy looks – The striking ruby-red swirls make these rolls as beautiful as they are delicious, perfect for holidays or impressive brunches.
That cream cheese glaze – Tangy, sweet, and utterly irresistible as it melts into every warm, spiced crevice.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying homemade rolls for the first time, this recipe delivers consistent, impressive results that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Red Velvet Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
¾ cup warm milk (110-115°F)
¼ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1½ tablespoons red food coloring (gel preferred)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

¾ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Pinch of salt

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk
Pinch of salt

Pro Tip: Room temperature eggs and quality vanilla extract make all the difference in developing that perfect red velvet flavor!

How To Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls With Cream Cheese Glaze

Preparing the Dough

Activate the yeast: Mix warm milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy (5-10 minutes).
Mix wet ingredients: Whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla, remaining sugar, and red food coloring.
Combine everything: Add yeast mixture to wet ingredients. Gradually mix in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (60-90 minutes).

Making the Rolls

Prepare filling: Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
Roll dough into an 18×14-inch rectangle.
Add filling: Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Roll and cut into 12 equal pieces.
Second rise: Place rolls in greased baking dish, cover, and let rise 30-45 minutes.
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Cream Cheese Glaze

Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt.
Add milk until desired consistency is reached.
Spread over warm (not hot) rolls.

Pro Tip: For cleaner cuts, chill the roll log for 15 minutes before slicing.

Homemade Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls With Cream Cheese Glaze: Better Than Bakery

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Servings and Timing

Yield: 12 large cinnamon rolls
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1.5-2 hours total
Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours
Serving Size: 1 roll per person
Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Storage and Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days in a sealed container
Freezer:
- Baked rolls: Wrap individually, freeze for up to 2 months
- Unbaked rolls: Freeze cut rolls for up to 1 month
Reheating Options:
- Microwave: 20-25 seconds per roll
- Oven: 300°F for 10 minutes (cover with foil)
- Air Fryer: 300°F for 2-3 minutes
Glaze storage: Keep any extra refrigerated for up to 1 week

Variations

Double Chocolate: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the filling for extra chocolatey goodness
Nutty Red Velvet: Sprinkle ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling
Orange-Infused: Add orange zest to both the dough and glaze for a citrusy twist
Cream Cheese Filled: Spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese under the cinnamon filling
Holiday Spice: Add nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to the cinnamon mixture for a festive flavor
White Chocolate Drizzle: Add a white chocolate drizzle over the cream cheese glaze

FAQs

1. Can I make these without food coloring?

Yes! The rolls will still have a light cocoa color and all the delicious flavor. If you prefer natural coloring, try 2-3 tablespoons of beet powder, though the color won’t be as vibrant.

2. Why didn’t my dough rise properly?

This is usually due to inactive yeast, liquid that’s too hot (killing the yeast), or a kitchen that’s too cold. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm (110-115°F), not hot.

3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?

Absolutely! Use the same amount but skip the proofing step. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe.

4. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

They should be lightly golden on top and reach an internal temperature of 190°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, insert a toothpick into the center roll, it should come out clean without doughy residue.

5. Can I prepare these the night before?

Yes! After placing the cut rolls in the baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before baking.

6. Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Definitely. You can mix the dough by hand with a wooden spoon and then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

7. Why did my filling leak out during baking?

This happens if the filling is spread too close to the edges. Leave a ½-inch border on all sides, especially the top edge when rolling.

8. Can I use a different frosting?

Certainly! While cream cheese glaze complements the red velvet flavor, vanilla buttercream or even a simple powdered sugar glaze works well too.

9. My rolls are browning too quickly in the oven. What should I do?

Tent the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while allowing the centers to continue cooking.

10. Are there any dairy-free alternatives that work for this recipe?

Yes! Plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cream cheese can all be substituted at a 1:1 ratio with good results. Just ensure your butter alternative is suitable for baking.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring together two classic flavors in one showstopping breakfast treat. The vibrant color makes them perfect for special occasions, while their irresistible taste will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you follow the classic version or experiment with variations, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results right from your home kitchen. Get ready for the incredible aroma of cinnamon and cocoa filling your home, and the smiles that follow with the first bite!