Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

BEST RECIPE For Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls (Fluffy & Irresistible)

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If you’re on the hunt for the BEST RECIPE for Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, you’re in for a sweet surprise. Imagine the classic warm, gooey cinnamon roll — now add the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake, and you’ve got a truly decadent treat. These rolls are incredibly soft, fluffy, and indulgent, with that signature tang of buttermilk and a luxurious swirl of cocoa-cinnamon sugar. Topped with a silky cream cheese glaze, they’re perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or just treating yourself.

Why is this recipe such a hit with American bakers? It’s simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to wow guests. Plus, you can customize it — add chopped nuts, drizzle white chocolate, or make it vegan with a few easy swaps. Whether you’re baking for Valentine’s Day, Christmas morning, or a cozy Saturday at home, this Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls recipe will steal the show.

⏱️ Preparation Time

30 minutes (plus 1 hour rise time)

🔥 Cooking Time

25 minutes

⏳ Total Time

1 hour 55 minutes

📌 Type

Dessert / Breakfast Pastry

🌎 Cuisine

American

🍽️ Recipe Yield

12 rolls

⚖️ Calories

Approx. 310 calories per serving

⭐ Ingredients for Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Dough:

  • 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (to mimic the classic red velvet tang)
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tbsp red gel food coloring
  • ½ tsp salt

Cinnamon Filling:

  • ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

Cream Cheese Glaze:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tbsp milk (to thin, as needed)

🧁 How to Make Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar.
  2. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cocoa powder.
  2. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, vanilla extract, egg, vinegar, and red food coloring.
  3. Add the wet ingredients and foamy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
  4. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

  1. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

  1. Mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa powder.
  2. Spread softened butter evenly over a large, floured surface.
  3. Roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly over dough.

Step 5: Roll & Slice

  1. Starting at the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
  2. Slice into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 6: Second Rise

  1. Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cover and let rise again for 20–30 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (175°C).

Step 7: Bake

  1. Bake for 23–25 minutes, until rolls are puffed and lightly golden.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

  1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until smooth and pourable.

Step 9: Glaze & Serve

  1. Spread glaze over warm rolls and serve immediately for maximum gooeyness!

💡 Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

  • Combines the best of cinnamon rolls and red velvet cake
  • Eye-catching color and rich flavor
  • Simple steps, even for beginners
  • Perfect for holidays, brunches, or gifting
  • Customizable with toppings or mix-ins

📌 Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like biting into one of these Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls — the soft texture, deep cocoa flavor, cinnamon sweetness, and that luscious cream cheese glaze are simply divine. Whether you’re making them for family or treating yourself, they’re bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ready to give them a try? Let me know how your rolls turn out in the comments or tag @StepRecipe on social media with your creations. And if you loved this, don’t forget to check out our other easy and delicious dessert recipes or subscribe for more weekly baking tips!

❓(FAQs)

How to make Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch?

Start by making a yeast-based red velvet dough, fill it with a cinnamon cocoa sugar mix, roll, slice, and bake — then top with a luscious cream cheese glaze.

Can I substitute regular food coloring for gel food coloring?

Yes, but gel food coloring provides a more vibrant red hue. If using liquid, you may need more, and that could affect dough texture slightly.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them up to the second rise, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp before baking the next morning.

How do I make vegan red velvet cinnamon rolls?

Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg. Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for the glaze.

Do I need a stand mixer to make this recipe?

Nope! You can knead the dough by hand — it just takes a little extra love (and muscle).

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