Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

If you’re craving something that blends rich, velvety sweetness with a touch of spicy warmth, you’ve got to try these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing. This delightful treat combines the classic cinnamon roll’s soft, pillowy texture with the vibrant red color and subtle chocolate flavor of red velvet cake. Topped off with a luscious cream cheese icing, these rolls are a showstopper for any breakfast table, brunch spread, or dessert lineup. You’ll love how every bite melts in your mouth, offering a perfect balance of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Combination: The blend of red velvet and cinnamon creates a unique and irresistible taste experience.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These rolls rise perfectly, delivering a light, airy crumb that feels like a warm hug.
• Luscious Cream Cheese Icing: The tangy sweetness of the frosting perfectly complements the sweet and spicy dough.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright red hue makes these rolls a festive and impressive addition to any occasion.
• Perfect for Any Meal: From breakfast to dessert, these rolls satisfy anytime cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing comes from simple ingredients that come together to create extraordinary flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the rich cocoa powder adding depth, to the cinnamon spice filling that perfectly warms the palate.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender base for soft, fluffy rolls.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a subtle but essential red velvet chocolate flavor.
• Active Dry Yeast: Ensures the dough rises beautifully, creating lightness.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps activate the yeast for proper fermentation.
• Buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderness to the dough while enhancing the red velvet taste.
• Butter: Used in both the dough and filling for a rich, moist texture.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Red Food Coloring: Delivers the iconic vibrant hue of red velvet treats.
• Cinnamon and Brown Sugar: Main ingredients for the warm and sweet filling inside each roll.
• Cream Cheese: Creates that signature tangy and creamy icing that complements the rolls perfectly.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting for that smooth finish.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor complexity in both dough and icing.

Variations for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

One of the greatest joys of this recipe is how adaptable it is to your taste, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with these fun and delicious variations to tailor the recipe just for you.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon sugar filling for extra crunch.
• Vegan Version: Substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg to make this recipe plant-friendly.
• Chocolate Overload: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside the filling for an extra chocolate hit.
• Spiced Kick: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for warm, aromatic notes.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these rolls without gluten concerns.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by warming your buttermilk and melting the butter. Dissolve the yeast in the warm liquid, then combine with sugar, eggs, red food coloring, cocoa powder, and flour. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then let it rise in a warm place for about an hour until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together, then spread softened butter evenly over your rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously before rolling the dough tightly into a log shape.

Step 3: Slice and Proof Rolls

Cut the rolled dough into equal slices, place them snugly in a greased baking dish, and allow them to rise again until puffy and nearly doubled—this second rise is what ensures a soft, airy texture.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the rolls in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma of cinnamon and cocoa will fill your kitchen at this point, making it nearly impossible to wait!

Step 5: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, slather the frosting generously on top to create that irresistible gooey finish.

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps the dough rise evenly and the icing blend smoothly.
• Don’t Skip the Second Rise: This step is crucial for soft and fluffy rolls with perfect texture.
• Measure Flour Carefully: Too much flour can make rolls dense; spoon and level for accuracy.
• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust sugar amounts in the filling or icing to suit your preference.
• Brush with Butter: After baking, brushing the tops with melted butter adds extra richness and shine.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Garnishes

Top your rolls with extra cream cheese icing drizzle, a sprinkle of crushed nuts, or a few fresh berries for a bright, festive look that also adds texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with fresh fruit, a rich cup of coffee, or a creamy vanilla yogurt to balance the richness while boosting your breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls warm in a rustic wooden tray lined with a festive napkin, or plate them individually with a small dollop of extra icing and a sprig of mint for an elegant touch that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft, or refrigerate to extend freshness for up to five days.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls by wrapping the pan tightly, allowing you to bake fresh rolls whenever the craving strikes—just thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Reheating

Warm refrigerated or frozen rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their soft texture and bring the cream cheese icing back to creamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I substitute the red food coloring with natural alternatives?

Yes! Beetroot powder or juice can be used to achieve the red hue naturally, though the color may be slightly softer than artificial food coloring.

How long do these rolls stay fresh?

At room temperature, they’re best enjoyed within 2 days. Refrigerated, they can last up to 5 days, but make sure to keep them airtight to prevent drying out.

Is it possible to make these rolls gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and add a bit of xanthan gum if your blend does not include it for the best texture results.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

You can prepare and refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping, filling, and baking for best results.

How do I make the cream cheese icing thinner or thicker?

Adjust the thickness by adding a little milk to thin it or extra powdered sugar to thicken it, depending on your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing, they’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorites. The unique blend of flavors, soft texture, and creamy topping make every bite feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself, sharing with loved ones, or impressing guests, this recipe promises to delight with its rich taste and beautiful presentation. So go on, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the magic of baking these irresistible rolls that your whole family will adore!

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