Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls – Soft, Sweet, and Cream Cheese Glazed.

There’s something magical about red velvet paired with the cozy, comforting goodness of cinnamon rolls. These Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring the best of both worlds together: tender, buttery rolls swirled with a subtly spiced cinnamon-sugar filling, vibrant red dough, and a creamy cream cheese glaze that melts perfectly over the top.

I first experimented with red velvet cinnamon rolls one chilly weekend morning, craving a dessert-like breakfast that would also impress anyone I served. The classic cinnamon-sugar filling needed just a hint of cocoa to complement the signature red velvet flavor, and a smooth cream cheese glaze finished the rolls with just the right touch of indulgence.

The result? Soft, fluffy rolls with a subtle cocoa undertone, a sweet cinnamon ribbon inside, and a luscious glaze that makes each bite heavenly — the kind of cinnamon roll that could turn any morning into a special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ½ tsp instant yeast
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm whole milk (110°F / 43°C)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
2 tsp red food coloring (or to achieve desired red hue)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Cinnamon Filling

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, yeast, and salt.

In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for the same amount of time.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa powder in a small bowl until smooth and spreadable. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle.

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along one edge to help seal the roll.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 even rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a small gap between each for expansion.

Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through.

Remove from oven and let cool slightly while preparing the glaze.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Add more milk if needed to reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

Drizzle generously over the warm rolls. The glaze will melt slightly, creating a luscious finish.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the rolls warm, ideally with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. They’re best enjoyed the day they’re baked, though they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.

Flavor & Texture Notes

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, with a gentle cocoa undertone that complements the cinnamon-sugar filling. The cream cheese glaze adds tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the rolls.

The texture is tender and pillowy, with edges that are lightly crisped and a gooey cinnamon ribbon running through the center. The red color makes them visually striking, perfect for holidays, special breakfasts, or brunch gatherings.

Tips & Variations

Natural Coloring: Use beet juice or powdered beet for a natural red hue.
Extra Cocoa: For a deeper cocoa flavor, increase cocoa in the dough to 2 tsp.
Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon filling before rolling for an extra treat.
Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based butter and milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze.
Overnight Rolls: Prepare up to shaping the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for a ready-to-serve breakfast.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Room Temperature: Store baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to restore softness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked rolls (before second rise) in a tightly wrapped dish for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Glaze Storage: Make glaze in advance and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Whisk before drizzling.

Serving Suggestions

Brunch Table: Serve with fresh fruit, muffins, or coffee cake for a festive breakfast spread.
Holiday Breakfast: Perfect for Valentine’s Day, Christmas morning, or birthdays.
Party Dessert: Plate on a large platter with a drizzle of extra glaze for dessert at gatherings.
Coffee Pairing: Enjoy with cappuccinos, lattes, or hot chocolate for a decadent treat.

FAQ

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes. Shape the rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use cream cheese frosting instead of glaze?

Absolutely. A thicker cream cheese frosting adds extra richness, though it won’t melt as much over the warm rolls.

Can I use frozen dough?

If using frozen dough, thaw fully before rolling and filling.

How do I prevent over-browning?

If tops brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 5–10 minutes of baking.

Are these rolls very sweet?

They’re sweet but balanced — the cream cheese glaze adds tangy sweetness while the cinnamon filling adds warmth without being overpowering.

Conclusion

These Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Soft, tender rolls with a buttery, cinnamon-sugar swirl and a luscious cream cheese glaze bring an elevated twist to a classic treat.

Perfect for special breakfasts, brunches, holidays, or any time you want a show-stopping pastry, these rolls are surprisingly easy to make with a little patience and care. Warm, colorful, and irresistibly fragrant, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Take your morning or brunch table to the next level with these vibrant, cozy, and indulgent cinnamon rolls — one bite, and you’ll see why they’re heavenly.