If you’re looking for a decadent twist on the classic cinnamon roll, these Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat. With their soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor, they combine the beloved cinnamon roll with the luxurious, velvety taste of red velvet cake. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, these rolls will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Not only are these red velvet cinnamon rolls stunning in color, but they’re also a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of cinnamon, chocolate chips, and cream cheese frosting creates an indulgent experience you won’t be able to resist. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert, these rolls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A Beautiful Red Velvet Twist

These cinnamon rolls get their vibrant color from red food coloring, giving them a stunning red velvet appearance that will wow your guests.

2. Cream Cheese Frosting

The tangy, creamy frosting adds an irresistible finish, elevating the sweetness of the rolls to a whole new level.

3. Soft and Fluffy Texture

The dough is rich and soft, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite.

4. Chocolatey Surprise

Mini chocolate chips are sprinkled inside the rolls for an extra layer of flavor and indulgence.

5. Perfect for Special Occasions

Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or any other celebration, these red velvet cinnamon rolls make a fantastic treat to share.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Active dry yeast
Baking powder
Salt
Whole milk (warmed)
Unsalted butter (melted)
Large egg
Red food coloring
Vanilla extract

For the Filling:

Unsalted butter (softened)
Brown sugar (packed)
Ground cinnamon
Mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Cream cheese (softened)
Unsalted butter (softened)
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Milk (to adjust consistency)

Variations

Vibrant Color: Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red hue without affecting the dough’s texture.
Holiday Touch: During the holidays, try sprinkling crushed candy canes or red sugar crystals on top of the cream cheese frosting for an extra festive touch.
Chocolate Chips: You can leave out the mini chocolate chips if you prefer a more traditional cinnamon roll, or swap them for white chocolate chips for a different twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and egg. Whisk until well blended.

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or using the dough hook on a stand mixer. Slowly add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, let it knead for 6-8 minutes on low speed. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a thick paste. If you’re using mini chocolate chips, keep them ready for sprinkling during assembly.

Step 3: Roll and Assemble

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the filling for an added layer of decadence.

Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. Adjust the consistency with milk, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before spreading the frosting generously over the top. Serve warm, and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Check the Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add more flour gradually, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes easier to handle.
Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring will give you a vibrant red color without affecting the texture of the dough.
Don’t Overbake: For soft and fluffy rolls, make sure not to overbake them. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to ensure they don’t dry out.
Allow Rising Time: Letting the dough rise properly is key to soft and airy rolls. Be patient during the rising process for the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls warm out of the oven, topped with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, milk, or a glass of fresh orange juice for a delightful breakfast or dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but they’ll stay soft and delicious for a few days.

Freezing

To freeze the rolls, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze the rolls before or after baking. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature, then warm them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Reheating

Reheat leftover rolls in the microwave or oven. If they’ve been frozen, let them thaw first for the best results.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and assembling the cinnamon rolls.

2. Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Yes, the chocolate chips are optional. The cinnamon rolls will still be delicious without them.

3. How do I make the frosting thicker?

If your cream cheese frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until you reach your desired thickness.

4. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can use a buttercream frosting or a simple glaze if you prefer something less tangy than cream cheese frosting.

5. Can I make these rolls without food coloring?

Yes, you can skip the food coloring if you prefer traditional cinnamon rolls. They will still taste amazing!

6. Can I make these rolls without yeast?

These rolls rely on yeast for the soft texture. Using a no-yeast dough would change the final result, so it’s best to stick with the yeast version for the fluffiest rolls.

7. Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts would be a great addition to the filling for added texture and flavor.

8. How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown on the edges and puffed up in the center. You can also check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

9. Can I make these rolls in advance?

You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight, or prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then store them in the fridge and bake them the next day.

10. How do I make these rolls gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the other ingredients for gluten if you have a sensitivity.

Conclusion

These Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence for any occasion. With their soft, fluffy dough, rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and decadent cream cheese frosting, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a special event or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, these rolls will become an instant favorite. Make them today and enjoy a truly heavenly treat!