Irresistible Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch Recipe

Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Recipe By:

Cristy Scott

Posted:

August 26, 2025

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The aroma of freshly baked Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm hug of sweetness and spice. Just imagine: a fluffy, rich dough kissed by cocoa, swirling in creamy cinnamon goodness that tempts even the strongest willpower. It’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds, and trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this delightful treat.

Picture this: you’re hosting a brunch with friends, and as they walk in, the scent of these rolls greets them like an old friend. You’ll be the culinary hero of the day, and they’ll wonder if you’ve secretly inherited baking powers from a long line of pastry chefs. With each bite, they’ll be transported to a sweet paradise! So grab your apron, because we’re about to embark on an adventure filled with flavor and fun.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are surprisingly easy to make from scratch, making them perfect even for novice bakers.
The rich flavors of cocoa and cinnamon create a decadent experience that’s hard to resist.
Their stunning red hue adds visual appeal, turning every brunch into an Insta-worthy occasion.
They are versatile enough to serve as breakfast or dessert—perfect for any time of day!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the roll’s structure; sifted flour helps keep your dough light and airy.
Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that rich chocolate flavor without adding extra sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and filling; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Active Dry Yeast: This little powerhouse makes your rolls rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Milk: Choose whole milk for creaminess; warm it slightly before mixing with yeast to help it bloom.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the dough; make sure it’s softened but not melted before incorporating.
Eggs: Help bind everything together while giving the rolls a lovely texture; use large eggs at room temperature.

For the Filling:

Cinnamon: The star ingredient here! Ground cinnamon provides that classic flavor we all love in cinnamon rolls.
Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness to the filling; light or dark works well depending on your preference.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes for a luscious frosting that pairs perfectly with the rolls’ richness.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens up the frosting without adding graininess; sift it before mixing for smoothness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by warming milk in a small saucepan until it’s lukewarm (about body temperature). In a mixing bowl, combine yeast with warm milk and let it sit until frothy—about five minutes. In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Add softened butter and eggs into the yeast mixture before combining everything until smooth.

Step 2: Knead Away

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about five minutes until it’s elastic and smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—around one hour should do.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down your dough (a great stress reliever!) and roll it out into a rectangle about half an inch thick. Spread softened butter over the surface like you’re applying sunscreen on a sunny day.

Step 4: Sprinkle on the Goodies

Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl before sprinkling evenly over your buttered dough. Roll tightly from one long side to another like you’re rolling up an important scroll that holds baking secrets.

Step 5: Slice and Bake

Cut rolled dough into equal pieces (about one inch thick), placing them cut side up in a greased baking dish. Let them rise again until fluffy—this is where patience pays off! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.

Step 6: Bake & Frost

Bake those beauties for about twenty-five minutes or until golden brown. While they cool slightly, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle generously over warm rolls because life is too short not to have plenty of frosting!

Serve these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls warm for an unforgettable treat that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Enjoy!

You Must Know

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining rich flavors and eye-catching color.
Perfect for brunch or dessert, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
The best part?
You can customize them to suit your taste.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the dough first, allowing it to rise while you make the cream cheese frosting. Once the dough is ready, roll it out, fill it with cinnamon sugar, and cut into rolls. Bake until golden brown for the perfect finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular flour for a gluten-free alternative or add nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. You can also experiment with different frostings or add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
Roll the dough tightly to keep the filling intact during baking.
Don’t skip the resting time; it helps develop flavor and softness.

Sometimes I make these rolls just for myself after a long day. It’s like a warm hug that says, “You did great today.” My friends always ask me to share, but let’s be real—I’m not that generous!

FAQs:

What are Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch?

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. These rolls feature a rich, velvety red dough infused with cocoa powder and topped with a sweet cream cheese frosting. Making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and ensure freshness. They are perfect for festive occasions or cozy breakfasts, offering a unique flavor and eye-catching color that impresses everyone at the table.

How long does it take to make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch?

Making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, including preparation and rising time. The dough needs to rise twice: once after mixing and again after shaping into rolls. While this might seem lengthy, most of the time is passive, allowing you to relax while the dough does its magic. Baking usually takes around 25 minutes, resulting in warm, delicious rolls ready to be enjoyed.

Can I make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch ahead of time! After shaping the rolls, place them in a greased baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap. You can refrigerate them overnight or freeze them for up to three months. If refrigerated, allow them to rise for about an hour before baking. For frozen rolls, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before letting them rise and bake.

What can I serve with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch?

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch pair beautifully with various accompaniments. A hot cup of coffee or tea complements their sweetness perfectly. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel over the top before serving, enhancing their decadent flavor profile.

Conclusion for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch:

In summary, making Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from scratch is a rewarding experience that results in soft, flavorful treats. With their striking color and creamy frosting, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Following the steps carefully ensures a delightful outcome that will impress family and friends alike. Remember that preparation time is flexible, allowing you to enjoy this recipe without stress while savoring every delicious bite!

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