Rich, Fluffy, and Vibrant: The Best Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe You’ll Ever Make

If you're looking to elevate your breakfast game, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the answer! With the perfect hint of cocoa and the rich, creamy texture of homemade cream cheese frosting, these vibrant rolls are sure to make any morning special. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday brunch or a cozy weekend treat, these cinnamon rolls are simply irresistible.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first discovered this delightful recipe on the Facebook page “Recipes by Lisa,” and I just had to share it with you. It's the ultimate combination of flavors—classic cinnamon rolls meet the deep, chocolatey richness of red velvet. Plus, they’re topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts beautifully into every bite.

The Story Behind Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red Velvet is a beloved flavor known for its rich, cocoa-infused base and striking red color. While most people enjoy it in cake form, adding this unique twist to cinnamon rolls takes breakfast indulgence to a whole new level. Inspired by the classic red velvet cake, these rolls blend the flavors of cinnamon, cocoa, and cream cheese, making them perfect for celebrations or as a comforting breakfast.

A Quick Peek into the Recipe's Origins

Though red velvet is often associated with Southern cooking, it actually dates back to the Victorian era, when bakers used cocoa to soften the texture of cakes. The vibrant red color came into fashion during the Great Depression, thanks to food coloring being introduced. The fusion of cinnamon rolls with this iconic flavor is a modern twist that adds a bit of decadence to your morning routine!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Red gel food coloring (as needed for the red velvet color)

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream (for desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, whisk the warm milk, yeast, and sugar together. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the Red Velvet Dough: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Add the yeast mixture and stir. Gradually mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Add red gel food coloring until you achieve your desired red velvet color. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Roll and Fill: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the butter.
5. Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they turn lightly golden on top.
7. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.
8. Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are done, let them cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.
9. Enjoy: Serve warm and savor the combination of cinnamon, cocoa, and cream cheese in every bite!

Pro Tips:

• Dyeing the Dough: Be sure to use red gel food coloring for a vibrant red hue without altering the dough's consistency.
• Extra Flavor Boost: Try adding a sprinkle of orange zest into the filling for a bright, citrusy contrast to the cinnamon.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge. In the morning, roll and bake fresh for an easy, yet impressive breakfast.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair these decadent rolls with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte for the perfect weekend breakfast treat. They also go well with fresh fruit or a mimosa if you're feeling fancy!

If you tried this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share it with friends and follow me for more delicious recipes. These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect mix of indulgence and comfort—you’ll want to make them again and again!