If you’re looking to elevate your breakfast or dessert game, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese are the perfect treat. Combining the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the warm, comforting cinnamon filling, these rolls offer a unique spin on a beloved classic. Topped with a sweet cream cheese frosting, each bite is a soft, fluffy indulgence that’s as decadent as it is delightful. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion, a holiday breakfast, or just because, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at the table. They’re not just a feast for the taste buds; they also make for a stunning visual with their vibrant red color and gorgeous cream cheese swirl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Red Velvet Twist

Red velvet adds a touch of luxury and sweetness to traditional cinnamon rolls, giving them an eye-catching color and delicious flavor that is both rich and slightly tangy.

2. Soft and Fluffy Texture

The dough is light and fluffy, creating the perfect base for the cinnamon filling. After baking, the rolls stay soft and pillowy, making each bite irresistible.

3. Cream Cheese Frosting

The cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the rich, buttery rolls. It’s the perfect finishing touch to this indulgent treat.

4. Perfect for Special Occasions

These rolls are perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or brunch gatherings. Their vibrant color and sweet flavors will impress your guests.

5. Easy to Make

Despite the impressive results, this recipe is relatively easy to follow, with just a few simple steps to prepare. With the help of a red velvet cake mix, you can quickly create a batch of stunning cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

Red velvet cake mix
Active dry yeast
Warm water
Vegetable oil
Egg
All-purpose flour
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Variations

Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling before rolling up the dough.
Chocolate Chips: Add some mini chocolate chips to the filling for an extra touch of indulgence.
Nut-Free Option: Leave out the nuts if you prefer a simpler, nut-free version.
Baked in Muffin Tins: For individually sized cinnamon rolls, bake them in muffin tins, which can also help with even cooking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix and active dry yeast. Add the warm water, vegetable oil, and egg, then mix until well combined.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Gradually stir in enough flour to form a soft dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and turn it once to grease the top. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a 16×12 inch rectangle.

Step 5: Add the Filling

Spread softened butter over the dough, then combine the brown sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle it evenly over the butter.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long sides, and then cut it into 12 equal slices.

Step 7: Let the Rolls Rise

Place the cinnamon rolls cut-side down in a greased 13×9 inch baking dish. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 9: Frost the Rolls

While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls once they’ve finished baking.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Warm Water: Ensure the water is warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, so check the temperature with your finger before adding it.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Be gentle when kneading the dough to avoid overworking it. Overworking the dough can result in dense rolls.
Allow Enough Rising Time: The dough needs time to rise to achieve the soft, fluffy texture. Be patient and let the dough double in size.
Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If your yeast doesn’t foam when added to the warm water, it may be expired, and you’ll need a new packet.
Frost While Warm: For the best results, spread the cream cheese frosting over the rolls while they are still warm so it melts slightly into the rolls.

How to Serve

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat. For a more indulgent experience, drizzle some extra cream cheese frosting over the rolls before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, and they will last for up to 4 days.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven before serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftover rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with other cake mixes, but the red velvet gives these rolls a unique flavor and color.

2. Can I make these rolls without yeast?

No, yeast is essential for the dough to rise and give the rolls their soft, fluffy texture.

3. Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?

Yes, but homemade cream cheese frosting adds a special touch and is much smoother.

4. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Can I add other fillings to these rolls?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even caramel for a unique twist on the classic cinnamon roll.

6. Can I prepare these rolls the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. The next day, let the rolls come to room temperature before baking.

7. How can I make the rolls even fluffier?

Be sure not to overwork the dough and allow enough rising time. For extra softness, use buttermilk instead of regular milk.

8. Can I use a hand mixer for the dough?

A hand mixer can work for mixing the dough, but you’ll need to knead it by hand afterward to develop the gluten.

9. Can I make these rolls in advance?

You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them the next day as directed.

10. How should I store leftover rolls?

Store the rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese are the perfect treat for anyone who loves a twist on classic cinnamon rolls. With their vibrant color, soft texture, and sweet cream cheese frosting, they are sure to be a hit at any breakfast, brunch, or dessert gathering. The combination of red velvet cake mix and cinnamon creates a deliciously indulgent flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or as a leftover treat, these rolls are guaranteed to bring joy with every bite.