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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Deliciously vibrant and fluffy, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are filled with sweet cinnamon and topped with a creamy glaze, perfect for breakfast or as a special treat.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/4 tsp active dry yeast Ensure yeast is fresh.
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C) For activating yeast.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature Helps with the dough rise.
  • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting) For the dough texture.
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder Provides flavor and color.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred) For vibrant color.

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened For filling.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar For sweetness.
  • 2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon Classic cinnamon flavor.

Glaze Ingredients

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened Base for the glaze.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract For flavor.
  • 2-3 tbsp milk To adjust glaze consistency.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, sugar, egg, egg yolk, melted butter, flour, salt, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Filling Preparation

  • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

Assembly and Baking

  • On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle.
  • Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log and cut into 12 equal slices.
  • Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking pan, cover with a towel, and let them rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  • Let them cool slightly before glazing.

Glaze Preparation

  • In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
  • Drizzle generously over the warm rolls.

Notes

Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
Keyword Baking, Cinnamon Rolls, Dessert, Red Velvet