Red velvet cinnamon rolls

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a fun twist on a classic breakfast treat, combining the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the warm, spicy goodness of cinnamon rolls.…

By Willow • December 29, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a fun twist on a classic breakfast treat, combining the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the warm, spicy goodness of cinnamon rolls. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and beautifully swirled with cinnamon sugar, topped with a sweet cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth. The gentle hint of cocoa and the vibrant red color make them feel extra special, perfect for a cozy morning or a holiday treat.

I love making these when I want to surprise my family with something a little different but still super comforting. There’s something so satisfying about pulling warm, gooey rolls fresh from the oven and drizzling that smooth cream cheese glaze on top. I usually make a double batch because they disappear fast! A helpful tip? Let the rolls rise well so they end up nice and tender—the extra patience really pays off.

These red velvet cinnamon rolls are wonderful for sharing with friends or serving at weekend brunch. I like to pair them with a cup of strong coffee or a cold glass of milk to balance out the sweetness. They always bring smiles around the table, and honestly, I think they’re just the perfect way to start your day with a little extra joy.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Red Food Coloring: This gives red velvet its signature look. If you prefer natural options, try beet juice or pomegranate juice, but the color may be softer.

Cocoa Powder: Just a touch adds depth without making it chocolate-y. Use unsweetened cocoa for the best flavor.

Buttermilk: It keeps the dough tender and adds a slight tang. If you don’t have it, mix milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice and let it sit 5 minutes.

Cream Cheese Icing: This frosting is classic for red velvet. If you want, you can swap cream cheese for mascarpone for a milder flavor.

How Do I Get Soft, Fluffy Rolls with Perfect Rise?

Achieving fluffy rolls is all about proper rising and gentle handling:

• Warm Ingredients: Keep your milk and buttermilk warm—not hot—to help the yeast activate without killing it.
• Patience in Rising: Let the dough rise until doubled in size. This usually takes 1 to 1 ½ hours in a warm spot. A slow rise improves flavor and texture.
• Gentle Kneading: Knead enough to develop gluten, but don’t overwork the dough. It should be smooth and elastic.
• Second Rise: After shaping the rolls, give them time to puff up again before baking. This step is key for soft, airy rolls.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining dough ingredients without spills.
• Wooden spoon or dough hook – helps mix thick dough easily.
• Rolling pin – for rolling out the dough evenly into a rectangle.
• 9-inch round baking pan – fits the rolls snugly for even baking and shaping.
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap – keeps dough moist during rising.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – makes cream cheese icing smooth and easy to whip up.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired flavor twist.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts inside for added crunch and nutty goodness.
• Mix mini chocolate chips into the filling for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Use vegan butter and cream cheese for a dairy-free version that’s still rich.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, warm (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk, warm
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring

For the Filling:

• 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, to thin icing)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes of active prep time plus 2 to 2 1/2 hours for rising and baking. The dough needs time to rise twice — once before shaping and once after rolling — so be sure to plan ahead for the best fluffy texture!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cocoa powder. In another bowl, mix the warm milk, buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.

2. Knead and Rise:

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.

3. Prepare the Filling:

While the dough is rising, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until creamy and well mixed.

4. Shape the Rolls:

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and pinch the edges to seal. Cut into 9 equal slices.

5. Second Rise:

Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased or parchment-lined 9-inch round pan with a little space between each roll. Cover and let them rise again for 45-60 minutes until puffy.

6. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they are set and just starting to brown on top.

7. Make Cream Cheese Icing:

While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy. Add milk a tablespoon at a time if you want a thinner glaze.

8. Finish and Serve:

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool 5-10 minutes. Spread or drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls, garnish with any leftover red velvet crumbs if you like, then serve warm and enjoy!

Can I Use Frozen Dough for These Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead and freeze it after the first rise. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature and rise again before shaping and baking.

Can I Substitute the Red Food Coloring?

Absolutely. Natural alternatives like beet juice or pomegranate juice work well but may give a softer red hue. Gel food coloring also works great for intense color without altering the dough’s texture.

How Should I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes! Replace the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious!