Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love a treat that combines a little chocolatey richness with that classic cinnamon roll goodness, you’re going to absolutely adore this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. I promise, once you bake these, they’ll become your go-to for a special breakfast or weekend indulgence. The soft, tender dough paired with that luscious cream cheese frosting? It’s fan-freaking-tastic and honestly, pretty addictive.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients together is key to nailing this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. I’ve found that using quality dairy and fresh yeast really makes a difference in the dough’s texture and flavor.

• Bread flour: This is essential for that perfect chewy-yet-soft texture in the dough.
• Whole milk and heavy cream: These combine for richness and tenderness in the dough—room temperature is best!
• White vinegar: Helps to tenderize the dough and enhance the tangy red velvet flavor.
• Cocoa powder: Adds depth to the chocolate flavor in the dough and filling, so don’t skip it.
• Instant yeast: I like instant for ease—no proofing needed, just mix it right in.
• Cream cheese and unsalted butter: For that silky, dreamy frosting and filling that make these rolls irresistible.
• Brown sugar and cinnamon: Classic combo for the filling, perfectly spiced and caramelized.
• Red gel food coloring: Gives that gorgeous red velvet hue without altering the texture.

Variations

Personally, I like to make this recipe my own depending on the occasion. The beauty of Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile, so feel free to tweak it to match your taste or dietary needs.

• Nutty Twist: Adding chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the filling adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor—my family loves this version.
• Spiced Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon filling for that warm holiday vibe.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap out butter and cream cheese for coconut oil and dairy-free cream cheese, and make sure you use a non-dairy milk alternative. I experimented with this and was pleasantly surprised at the results!
• Smaller Rolls: For bite-sized treats, cut your dough into 1-inch strips instead of 1¾-inch. These mini rolls bake faster and are perfect for parties.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Create the Tangzhong – Your Secret to Soft Rolls

This step is what takes these rolls to the next level. Combine the water and bread flour in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens to a smooth paste – about 4-5 minutes. This pre-gelatinizes the starches, giving your dough incredible moisture and tenderness. Scrape it into a bowl and let it cool while you prep the rest. Trust me, this little trick changed how I bake sweet rolls forever.

Step 2: Mix Your Dough Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, cocoa powder, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Then, in another bowl, mix the milk, heavy cream, and white vinegar. Add the milk mixture, one large egg, cooled tangzhong, and red gel food coloring to the dry ingredients. Start kneading with a dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter and Knead Until Perfect

Now comes the fun part—gradually mix in your softened butter, half a tablespoon at a time. Make sure each addition is fully absorbed before adding more; this helps create that tender crumb. After the butter’s in, knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you’re doing this by hand, it’s a great workout! Then, shape the dough into a ball, place it back in the bowl, cover, and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period relaxes the gluten and makes rolling out easier.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling and Roll It Out

Mix the softened butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and vanilla bean paste until smooth and creamy. On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough into a large 15×21-inch rectangle. Here’s a tip: keep your rolling pin moving evenly to avoid thin spots. Spread the filling right up to the edges to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Step 5: Slice and Let Them Rise

Using a pizza cutter, slice your dough into twelve 1¾-inch strips. Roll each strip tightly away from you to keep that perfect spiral. Carefully place each roll into a parchment-lined 9×13 baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and place them in a warm spot until they double in size—this usually takes 1 to 2 hours. During this time, preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C).

Step 6: Bake and Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Bake the rolls for 28 to 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the center rolls hits 185°F. While they’re baking, whip up your cream cheese frosting by combining softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, then add vanilla bean paste and heavy cream. Keep mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy—this is the part everyone loves!

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the rolls cool for about 15 minutes so they’re warm but not scalding. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top—some of it will melt into the rolls, creating that perfect gooey finish we dream about. Give it another 15 minutes to settle, then dig in. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

When serving these rolls, I like to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top of the frosting for a subtle spice burst. Sometimes a few fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, festive touch that makes the presentation sing.

Side Dishes

These rolls are pretty indulgent, but pairing them with simple things like fresh fruit or a crisp green salad balances out breakfast or brunch really well. If you’re feeling decadent, a hot mocha or chai latte pairs lovely with the cinnamon and cocoa notes.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve found that arranging these rolls in a circle on a festive platter looks fantastic for special mornings like birthdays or holidays. You can even drizzle some extra melted white chocolate or raspberry sauce over the top for a colorful, gourmet touch that wows guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which usually doesn’t happen in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay impressively soft for up to four days. You’ll notice they actually taste better warmed slightly, as the frosting gets all melty again.

Freezing

I’ve frozen unbaked rolls before by slicing and placing them snugly in a pan, covering tightly and freezing. When ready, thaw and let them rise before baking as usual. For baked rolls, wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze—just thaw them overnight in the fridge for a fresh taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftover rolls in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. Microwave works too, just heat in 30-second bursts to avoid drying them out. Adding a piece of damp paper towel on top helps keep moisture in.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe turns out every time I make it. From the moment that sweet, cocoa-scented dough hits the oven to when I spread that luscious frosting over the warm rolls, it’s pure kitchen magic that fills the house with amazing aromas. If you try it, you’ll see why my family goes crazy for this recipe. Baking these feels like a little act of love you can share with people you care about, and honestly, it brightens my mornings every single time. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a go—you’ll thank me later!

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