Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The Fluffiest Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Red velvet cinnamon rolls blend decadent chocolate undertones with soft, pillowy textures that revamp ordinary breakfast pastries into extraordinary morning delights.

Their deep crimson color signals a luxurious twist on classic morning treats.

These rolls combine rich, velvety sensations with warm, comforting spices that dance across your palate.

Bakery enthusiasts appreciate how this recipe elevates traditional cinnamon roll expectations through unexpected color and nuanced flavor profiles.

Sweet and slightly tangy notes create an irresistible harmony that beckons you closer with each swirl.

Soft, tender dough promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience that satisfies morning cravings and special occasion desires.

Achieving bakery-quality results at home requires careful technique and genuine passion for creating something truly memorable.

Ingredients to Swirl Together Red Velvet and Cinnamon

Dry Ingredients:
  • Red Velvet Cake Mix: Provides the base flavor and vibrant red color, choose a high-quality mix for best results.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Helps create the right dough texture and structure, select unbleached flour for better consistency.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Essential for dough rising, ensure it's fresh and not expired.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: Classic sweet and warm filling combination, use freshly ground cinnamon for more intense flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps spread flavor across the dough, use room temperature butter for easy spreading.
Icing Ingredients:
  • Confectioners' Sugar: Creates smooth, sweet icing, sift to remove any lumps.
  • Butter: Provides creamy texture to the icing, use softened butter for easy mixing.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor, choose pure vanilla for best taste.
  • Milk: Adjusts icing consistency, use whole milk for richer flavor.

Baking Instructions for Soft and Decadent Red Velvet Rolls

Step 1: Knead and Rise the Dough

Gradually add remaining flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently knead 6-8 times. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 2 hours.

Step 2: Prepare Cinnamon Filling

In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

After rising, punch down the dough and roll it into an 18×10-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the entire surface with melted butter, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the roll slices cut-side up in a greased 13×9-inch baking pan. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place until nearly doubled, about 1 hour.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes until they are puffed and light golden brown.

Step 7: Create Creamy Icing

In a mixing bowl, blend:
  • Confectioners' sugar
  • Softened butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Milk

Mix until the icing reaches a smooth, drizzling consistency.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Drizzle the creamy icing over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the decadent red velvet twist on classic cinnamon rolls!

Tips to Roll, Fill, and Frost with Style

  • Activate Yeast Properly: Ensure water is warm (110-115°F) to activate yeast without killing it, creating soft, fluffy rolls.
  • Manage Sticky Dough: Use a light touch when kneading and avoid adding too much extra flour to maintain moisture and tenderness.
  • Roll with Precision: Use a ruler to create an even rectangle, ensuring uniform size and consistent baking for all cinnamon rolls.
  • Control Rising Environment: Place dough in a draft-free, warm spot like a turned-off oven with a pan of hot water to help it rise perfectly.
  • Achieve Perfect Icing Consistency: Add milk gradually to confectioners' sugar mixture, creating a smooth, drizzle-able texture that complements the rolls' rich red velvet flavor.

Keeping Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Fresh for Days

  • Refrigerate: Store cooled red velvet cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for maximum freshness.
  • Reheat: Warm refrigerated rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Drizzle fresh icing before serving to restore moisture and flavor.

Perfect Pairings to Enjoy with These Rolls

  • Brew the Perfect Coffee Companion: Pair these red velvet cinnamon rolls with a rich, medium-roast Colombian coffee that complements the rolls' sweet and slightly tangy flavor profile. The coffee's smooth notes will enhance the dessert's decadent texture.
  • Create a Creamy Milk Sidekick: Serve cold vanilla almond milk or a classic whole milk to balance the rolls' richness. The cool, smooth drink cuts through the sweetness and provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced pastry.
  • Match with Complementary Dessert Wine: Select a late-harvest Riesling with its subtle sweetness and light acidity. This wine's delicate fruity undertones will harmonize beautifully with the red velvet's cocoa hints and cinnamon's warmth.
  • Elevate with Cream Cheese Dip: Prepare a light cream cheese dip seasoned with a touch of vanilla and powdered sugar. This extra indulgence will mirror the rolls' cream cheese-like flavor and add an elegant touch to your dessert experience.

Fun Twists on This Red Velvet Fusion Favorite

  • Chocolate Swirl Rolls: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough and add chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, decadent version of the classic red velvet cinnamon rolls.
  • Cream Cheese Stuffed Rolls: Create a cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla, then spread inside the rolls before baking for an extra creamy center.
  • Nutty Red Velvet Rolls: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture before rolling for added crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Berry Burst Rolls: Fold in dried cranberries or raspberries into the filling for a tangy fruit complement to the sweet red velvet base.

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls That Combine Cozy and Classic

  • Revolutionize Breakfast Delight: These red velvet cinnamon rolls transform an ordinary morning into a spectacular culinary experience with their vibrant color and decadent flavor profile.
  • Effortless Gourmet Creation: The recipe combines simplicity and sophistication by using cake mix as a base, making professional-quality pastries accessible to home bakers of all skill levels.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Fusion: Merging the classic cinnamon roll with red velvet's rich tradition creates an irresistible treat that appeals to both traditional and adventurous dessert lovers, promising smiles and satisfied taste buds at family gatherings or weekend brunches.
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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe


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4.5 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent red velvet cinnamon rolls bring Southern charm to classic breakfast pastries. Cream cheese frosting and rich cocoa notes create a luxurious twist that promises pure morning delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 package red velvet cake mix (regular size)
  • 2.5 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 package (0.25 ounces) active dry yeast
  • 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1.25 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
  • 0.25 cup butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 3 to 5 tablespoons 2% milk

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a spacious mixing vessel, blend the red velvet cake mix, flour, and yeast until thoroughly incorporated. Introduce warm water and whip vigorously until a smooth, uniform batter emerges.
  2. Progressively fold in additional flour, creating a supple, slightly tacky dough. The mixture should maintain a soft, pliable texture.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly dusted work surface. Tenderly manipulate the dough, kneading gently to develop its structure. Relocate the dough to a greased receptacle, ensuring the surface is lightly coated.
  4. Shelter the dough and position in a cozy environment. Allow it to expand and rise, approximately two hours, until its volume doubles.
  5. Meanwhile, prepare the aromatic filling by combining brown sugar and cinnamon in a separate container. Ensure the mixture is well-blended and fragrant.
  6. After the dough has risen, deflate it with a gentle punch. Roll the dough into a rectangular shape, targeting an 18×10-inch dimension.
  7. Liberally brush the surface with melted butter, maintaining a slight border around the edges. Distribute the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the buttered landscape.
  8. Commence rolling from the elongated side, creating a compact cylindrical form. Seal the seam by pinching edges together. Slice the roll into twelve uniform sections.
  9. Arrange the slices in a greased baking pan, positioning them cut-side upward. Drape with a kitchen towel and allow a second rise in a warm location for approximately one hour.
  10. Heat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls until they become puffy and acquire a delicate golden hue, roughly 15-20 minutes.
  11. For the crowning glory, whip together confectioners’ sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk. Adjust liquid to achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency.
  12. Once slightly cooled, generously cascade the luxurious icing over the warm cinnamon rolls, creating an enticing finish.

Notes

  • Activate yeast properly by using warm water between 110-115°F to ensure perfect dough rising.
  • Knead dough gently to prevent tough texture, handling it minimally for soft, tender rolls.
  • Allow sufficient rising time in a warm, draft-free area for optimal volume and lightness.
  • Create even slices using dental floss or a sharp knife for uniform cinnamon rolls.
  • Check doneness by golden brown color and soft, springy texture when lightly touched.
  • Drizzle icing while rolls are warm to help it melt slightly and coat evenly for maximum flavor absorption.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

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