Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F); 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 2 tbsp red food coloring; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup butter, softened (for filling); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for icing consistency)

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cinnamon rolls combine the rich, cocoa-kissed flavor of red velvet with the warm spice of cinnamon and the creamy tang of cream cheese icing. They’re soft, fluffy, and beautifully festive—ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any day you want to make feel special. Plus, the homemade dough rises perfectly and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Granulated sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Salt
Warm milk
Butter
Eggs
Red food coloring
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream or milk (for thinning the icing, if needed)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a bit of sugar. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter, eggs, red food coloring, cocoa powder, the rest of the sugar, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add flour and knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 5–7 minutes. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into even rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for about 30–45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden.
While baking, make the icing by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a bit of milk or cream until smooth and spreadable.
Spread the icing over the warm rolls before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 cinnamon rolls.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a double chocolate version.
Use a drizzle of white chocolate ganache instead of traditional icing.
Add a hint of espresso powder to the dough for a mocha twist.
Sprinkle chopped pecans over the filling before rolling for added crunch.
For a shortcut, use store-bought red velvet cake mix as part of the dough base.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm individual rolls in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
For longer storage, freeze the rolls (unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before icing and serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.

Do I need to use food coloring?

Food coloring gives the rolls their red velvet appearance, but you can skip it for a more natural version.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, just skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

What type of cocoa powder should I use?

Use unsweetened natural cocoa powder for the most classic red velvet flavor.

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?

Yes, freeze the unbaked or baked (unfrosted) rolls for up to 2 months. Bake or thaw and warm before icing.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting dry?

Don’t overbake, and be sure to cover them while rising and cooling. A drizzle of cream before baking can also keep them moist.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives to adapt the recipe.

Why are my rolls not rising?

Check that your yeast is active and that the milk isn’t too hot or too cold—it should be around 110°F.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Just use two pans and allow enough space for the rolls to expand.

What’s the best way to cut the dough?

Use dental floss or a sharp serrated knife to slice cleanly through the rolled dough without squishing it.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing are a delightful fusion of flavor and texture—soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion that calls for a little extra flair. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or reheat them for a treat, they’re sure to impress anyone lucky enough to take a bite.