Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls 

If you’ve been dreaming about a treat that feels a little fancy but still fits into a busy weekday, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new kitchen BFF. They combine everything we love about classic cinnamon rolls—soft dough, gooey centers, warm cinnamon—with that gorgeous red velvet twist that just feels special. And yes, the red velvet cinnamon rolls magic shows up in the very first bite.

As someone who’s spent a lot of time turning chicken into culinary magic, I love balancing my savory creations with a little sweetness. These rolls became a weekend tradition in my home after my daughter declared them “birthday-worthy”… on a random Tuesday. So trust me—if your family tends to wander into the kitchen whenever something smells amazing, this one will have them hovering like hungry little clouds.

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls check all the boxes busy women often juggle:

• ✔ Warm, cozy, bakery-style vibes without leaving the house
• ✔ Simple steps you can follow even with distractions (kids… pets… laundry… life)
• ✔ A stunning red velvet color that looks like you tried really hard (even if you didn’t)
• ✔ Perfect for holidays, brunch, Valentine’s Day, or a “just because I deserve it” day

They’re soft, fluffy, and decadent—everything a cinnamon roll should be, but prettier.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons red food coloring (add more if you want a deeper red)
• 1 tablespoon buttermilk

For the Filling

• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions

• No buttermilk? Mix 1 tablespoon vinegar into 1 cup milk.
• Want chewier rolls? Use bread flour.
• Dairy-free? Swap butter and milk for plant-based versions.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk to 110°F, then add the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy. This helps your red velvet cinnamon rolls rise beautifully—like little pillows of joy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and food coloring.
Add in the yeast mixture, butter, egg, and buttermilk.

Mix until a soft dough forms. If it’s sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour. Knead for 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Yes, it’s a mini arm workout—but one that ends in dessert, so totally worth it.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.

This is your chance to enjoy a cup of coffee… or scroll in peace.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon. Keep your softened butter close—it’s about to play a starring role.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Punch the dough down gently (very therapeutic).
Roll it into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
Spread the softened butter, then sprinkle the filling evenly.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Roll tightly from the long side like you’re making a giant red velvet burrito.
Slice into 12 pieces using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss (trust me—it cuts like magic).

Step 7: Second Rise

Place rolls in a greased 9×13 pan.
Cover and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Keep an eye on them—overbaking turns soft rolls into sad rolls.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
Adjust thickness based on your drizzle dreams.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Pour that sweet glaze over warm rolls and watch it melt into all the curves and swirls. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments.

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

• If your dough feels too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time. Too much flour makes rolls tough.
• Your glaze too thin? Add powdered sugar. Too thick? Add a drop (just a drop!) of milk.
• Don’t stress about imperfect rolls. Lopsided rolls still taste fabulous.
• Make ahead tip: Assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning. Your house will smell like a bakery at sunrise.

A little personal note: The first time I made these, the dough turned my hands pink… and my kids thought it was hilarious. So if your hands get a rosy tint, just call it your “baking badge of honor.”

FAQs About Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

A Sweet Ending Worth Sharing

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring a little magic to any morning—whether it’s a holiday, a special celebration, or just a cozy Sunday at home. They’re warm, tender, beautifully colored, and absolutely unforgettable.

If you make them, tag me on social media—I love seeing your kitchen creations. And who knows? These might just become the recipe your family begs for again and again.

Happy baking, my friend—and may your kitchen always smell this heavenly.

More Delicious Treats You’ll Love

If these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls made your kitchen smell like a warm hug, just wait until you try a few of my other cozy favorites! Here are some fun, festive treats that pair beautifully with your fresh-baked rolls and keep the magic going in your home:

• Craving something extra chocolatey and winter-wonderful? My Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is the perfect melt-in-your-mouth companion.
• Want to add a little holiday whimsy to your dessert table? These adorable Grinch Mini Cheesecakes never fail to make guests smile.
• For a cozy drink to sip while your cinnamon rolls bake, try my warm and spicy Christmas Chai Latte—it’s like a mug full of comfort.
• And if you’re in the mood for another sweet bite that’s simple, soft, and irresistible, you’ll love these Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies.

Treat yourself to one (or all!) of these next—you deserve a little extra sweetness today.

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