Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There’s something incredibly magical about the swirl of bright red dough paired with a warm cinnamon filling that makes this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe one of my absolute favorites to bake and share. The combination of velvety red cake mix with the cozy spices of cinnamon creates a treat that’s equally perfect for a special breakfast, holiday gathering, or an indulgent snack. Each bite is a tender, slightly sweet hug, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting that melts right in your mouth. If you love cinnamon rolls but want a fun, festive twist, this recipe is going to become your new go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering that fluffy, flavorful, and vibrantly red cinnamon roll you’ll crave. From the instant yeast that gives the dough its airy rise to the red velvet cake mix that provides that iconic color and subtle cocoa note, every component matters.

• Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps form the dough’s perfect texture.
• Instant yeast (one packet): The rising agent that makes the rolls light and fluffy.
• Red velvet cake mix: Adds that gorgeous red hue and a hint of cocoa flavor for uniqueness.
• Flour (2 1/2 cups): Gives structure to the dough so it holds its shape.
• Vegetable oil (or canola oil): Keeps the dough moist and tender.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the filling while balancing the spice.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Delivers warm and fragrant spice for that classic roll taste.
• Butter (softened, 1/4 cup plus 6 tablespoons): Essential for richness in both the filling and the frosting.
• Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Creates a tangy, silky frosting that’s irresistible.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect consistency.
• Whole milk (8-10 tablespoons): Adjusts the frosting’s smoothness and pourability.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor depth in the frosting.
• Red heart sprinkles (optional): Adds a fun, decorative touch to celebrate anytime.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Start by mixing the warm water and instant yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for about five minutes. The yeast will start to foam, signaling it’s alive and ready to work its magic in making the dough rise perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

To the frothy yeast mixture, add the red velvet cake mix alongside 2 cups of the flour. This blend gives the dough that signature red velvet character, combining cocoa hints with vibrant color all in one. Stir to begin forming your dough.

Step 3: Mix and Add Remaining Flour

Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture for about 2 minutes to help bring the dough together. Then add the remaining 1/4 cup of flour slowly to achieve a soft but workable dough. Brush a little vegetable oil on top to keep it from drying out.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place it somewhere warm. The dough should rise and approximately double in size, which usually takes about 2 hours. This resting time is essential to develop the soft, fluffy texture we all love in cinnamon rolls.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a roughly 16×12 inch rectangle, which gives you the perfect canvas for the cinnamon-sugar filling and rolling into the classic spiral shape.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

Mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This combination will fill your rolls with warm, caramelized sweetness that makes every bite taste like a comforting hug.

Step 7: Spread Butter

Take 1/4 cup of softened butter and evenly spread it over the entire rolled-out dough. This buttery layer helps the sweet cinnamon sugar stick and creates that melty, flavorful center after baking.

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar

Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mix evenly over the buttered dough. Be generous to ensure every roll has a perfect swirl of the cinnamon goodness.

Step 9: Roll and Slice

Starting at the long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seam so it seals well. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces that will become your cinnamon rolls.

Step 10: Arrange for Final Rise

Place the sliced rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them to allow a little expansion. Cover again and let them rest for 1 hour, letting the rolls puff up just before baking.

Step 11: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake the rolls for about 25 minutes or until they’re golden and cooked through. You’ll notice their enticing aroma filling your kitchen, signaling they are ready to be smothered with frosting.

Step 12: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While rolls bake, beat together 6 tablespoons softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with whole milk, until you reach a creamy, spreadable consistency. Stir in vanilla extract for that extra flavor pop.

Step 13: Frost and Garnish

Once the rolls have cooled just slightly, generously spread your cream cheese frosting all over the top while still warm. If you want to add a festive touch, sprinkle red heart sprinkles over the frosting for a charming finish.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the optional red heart sprinkles, you can also dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a little extra sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh raspberries on the side complement the slight cocoa flavor beautifully as well.

Side Dishes

These rolls are delicious on their own, but serving them alongside fresh fruit, a cup of rich coffee, or even a creamy hot chocolate transforms breakfast or brunch into a cozy indulgence you and your guests will rave about. For a savory contrast, crisp bacon or sausage links work wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the rolls in a circular pan for a flower-like presentation or bake them in individual ramekins to create personal servings. Wrapping them up individually as a gift with festive ribbons is also a delightful idea for celebrations or thoughtful treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extras (which is hard to avoid), store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them covered with foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture so they stay fresh and soft, almost like you just baked them.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked cinnamon rolls after slicing and placing them in the baking dish, tightly covered with plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before letting them rise and baking. Alternatively, freeze baked rolls wrapped well to preserve freshness and defrost before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up leftover cinnamon rolls, microwave a single roll for 20-30 seconds or reheat multiple rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven covered with foil for about 10 minutes. This brings back that soft, pillowy texture without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use regular cake mix instead of red velvet?

Absolutely! Using a regular chocolate or even vanilla cake mix will work, but you won’t get the vibrant red color and signature flavor that red velvet brings to these cinnamon rolls.

Is it okay to substitute cream cheese frosting with regular icing?

You can, but the tanginess of cream cheese frosting complements the red velvet flavor perfectly. Regular icing will be sweeter but might miss some of that balance and richness.

How do I know when the dough has doubled in size?

The dough should roughly double its original volume and look visibly puffed and airy. A gentle poke should leave an indentation that slowly fills back in, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Can I make these gluten-free?

With some adjustments using gluten-free flour blends, you can try making them gluten-free, but keep in mind the texture might vary slightly. Using a gluten-free red velvet cake mix will also help maintain flavor and color.

What’s the best way to get those perfect spiral layers?

Rolling the dough tightly starting from the long edge helps create beautiful, even spirals. Be gentle but firm so the filling doesn’t spill out and the layers stay intact while baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a spectacular twist to your cinnamon roll routine, this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will truly wow your taste buds and those lucky enough to share them. It’s a fantastic blend of festive color, comforting spice, and creamy frosting that feels like a celebration in every bite. Trust me, once you try making these, they’ll become a cherished part of your baking repertoire. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of fresh-baked goodness!

Print