These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing are what dessert dreams are made of. Imagine the rich, cocoa-kissed flavor of red velvet cake swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar, all wrapped up in a soft, pillowy dough. Now top that with a thick, tangy-sweet layer of cream cheese icing that melts into every warm swirl… yep, it’s as irresistible as it sounds. Whether you’re serving them up for brunch, a holiday treat, or just because you need a little indulgence, trust me these rolls are about to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a decadent breakfast-for-dinner situation.

Budget-Friendly: Uses basic baking ingredients and pantry staples no fancy ingredients required.

Quick and Easy: Easier than you think, especially if you’ve made cinnamon rolls before. Totally worth the effort!

Customizable: Add chocolate chips, a splash of espresso, or a pinch of nutmeg for your own twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

These ingredients work together to deliver bold color, big flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure and softness to the dough.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds that rich red velvet flavor and color depth.

Red Food Coloring: Brings the iconic deep red hue to these cinnamon rolls.

Sugar: Sweetens both the dough and the filling just the right amount.

Active Dry Yeast: The secret to light, fluffy, risen rolls.

Milk & Butter: Warmed together to help activate the yeast and add richness.

Eggs: Give the dough structure and tenderness.

Salt: Balances all the sweetness.

Cinnamon & Brown Sugar: The classic combo that makes the swirl so delicious.

Cream Cheese: The key to that tangy, luscious icing.

Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the icing while keeping it smooth and spreadable.

Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to both the rolls and the icing.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: If baking immediately, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter or grease a large baking dish.

Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk and butter until just lukewarm. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add in the yeast mixture, eggs, and red food coloring. Mix and knead until a soft, elastic dough forms about 5–7 minutes.

Let It Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size around 1 hour.

Roll It Out: Punch down the dough, then roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread the Filling: Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle with a generous layer of brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into even slices.

Arrange and Rise Again: Place the rolls in your prepared dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes.

Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until fluffy and golden around the edges.

Make the Icing: While they bake, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy.

Frost While Warm: Once the rolls are fresh from the oven, spread the icing generously over the tops so it melts into all the nooks and crannies.

Serve and Enjoy: Grab a fork and a warm roll—these are best enjoyed fresh and slightly gooey!

Notes

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 390

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes rising time)

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve with a strong cup of coffee or a frothy latte for the ultimate brunch vibe. Add some fresh berries or a fruit salad on the side to balance the richness. Want to get festive? Sprinkle with red velvet crumbs or a pinch of cinnamon just before serving.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Don’t skip the rising time it’s key to that fluffy texture. Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to slice your dough without squishing it. Let the cream cheese icing come to room temp before spreading it’ll glide on like a dream. If making ahead, refrigerate the shaped rolls and bake fresh the next morning. For extra indulgence, drizzle with white chocolate.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes! Just shape the rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

2. Do I have to use food coloring?
Nope skip it if you prefer. You’ll still have delicious cocoa-cinnamon rolls, just without the red hue.

3. Can I use instant yeast instead?
Yes, you can! Just skip the proofing step and add it directly to the dry ingredients.

4. How do I keep the rolls soft?
Cover them with foil while baking if they’re browning too fast. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

5. Can I freeze the baked rolls?
Absolutely. Freeze them unfrosted, then reheat and ice before serving.

6. What’s the best cream cheese to use?
Full-fat block cream cheese gives the smoothest, richest icing.

7. Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
Yes and it’s highly recommended for chocolate lovers.

8. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries knead the dough by hand until smooth and elastic.

9. How long do leftovers last?
They’ll stay soft for about 2 days at room temperature, or up to 5 in the fridge.

10. Can I make them gluten-free?
You can try with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing are the kind of show-stopping treat that makes everyone pause after the first bite and say, “Wow.” From the tender, cocoa-laced dough to the swirls of cinnamon sugar and that rich cream cheese topping, every bite is pure indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, a holiday spread, or just because you deserve something fabulous, these rolls deliver big-time comfort and joy. So roll up your sleeves this is one baking adventure you’ll want to repeat again and again.

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