Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-491155H48M44S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package red velvet cake mix (regular size); 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast; 1 1/4 cups warm water (110° to 115° F); 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 cups confectioners’ sugar; 2 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 to 5 tablespoons 2% milk

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 44 reviews

If you’re looking to wow your family or guests with something truly special, this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the classic cinnamon roll you love, infused with the rich, vibrant flavor and stunning color of red velvet cake—creating a fluffy, tender, and irresistibly sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Each bite is a perfect harmony of cinnamon spice and velvety sweetness, topped with a creamy vanilla glaze that keeps you coming back for more. Believe me, this recipe is going to become your new favorite way to indulge!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a small, tightly rolled fruit leather roll resting on a wooden surface. The roll has multiple thin layers with a deep red outer layer and a darker brown inner layer, showing a smooth yet slightly textured surface. Behind the roll, there are flat strips of similar fruit leather laid out, also showing the two colors of deep red and brown in alternating layers. The background is a simple white marbled texture, keeping focus on the fruit leather. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a vital role in making these rolls soft, flavorful, and beautifully colored. From the red velvet cake mix that provides that signature taste and hue, to the cinnamon and brown sugar filling that gives the rolls their warm, classic aroma, everything works together to create magic.

Red velvet cake mix (1 package): The heart of the rolls, providing that iconic color and subtle cocoa flavor that sets these apart.
All-purpose flour (2-1/2 to 3 cups): Essential for forming the dough with just the right texture—adding more flour helps achieve the perfect softness without toughness.
Active dry yeast (1 package, 1/4 ounce): This is the secret behind their light, fluffy rise, giving the dough that airy quality everyone loves.
Warm water (1-1/4 cups, 110° to 115°): Activates the yeast gently to start the dough fermentation process.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds a rich sweetness and moisture to the cinnamon sugar filling.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings that warm, spiced flavor to the filling which is essential for the classic cinnamon roll vibe.
Butter, melted (1/4 cup): Helps keep the dough moist and tender; also used in the filling to bind the cinnamon sugar.
Confectioners’ sugar (2 cups): The base for the luscious icing that finishes the rolls, giving a sweet, creamy finish.
Butter, softened (2 tablespoons): Combined with sugar for a smooth, rich icing.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and warmth to the icing flavor.
2% milk (3 to 5 tablespoons): Adjusts the icing consistency to make it perfect for drizzling or spreading.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Mix the Dough

Start by combining the red velvet cake mix, one cup of flour, and the yeast in a large bowl. Adding the warm water gradually activates the yeast and begins forming the dough. Beat everything together on a medium speed for about two minutes until well combined. Then, stir in more flour as needed until the dough becomes soft but still somewhat sticky. You’ll want to turn it out onto a lightly floured surface to knead gently six to eight times. This kneading process helps develop the dough’s structure, promising soft rolls later on.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once so the top is coated with a thin layer of oil. Cover it up and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this usually takes around two hours. This rise is critical because it gives the rolls their fluffy texture and ensures the red velvet flavor stays wonderfully mellow and moist.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. This simple filling will melt and caramelize inside the rolls, giving them that classic cinnamon roll heart and irresistible aroma.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 18 by 10 inches. Brush the surface with melted butter, leaving about a quarter-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top, then carefully roll the dough up jelly-roll style from one long edge. Be sure to pinch the seam tightly so the roll holds together while baking. Slice the roll into 12 even pieces and place them cut-side-up in a greased 13×9-inch baking pan.

Step 5: Second Rise and Baking

Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise again in a warm place until nearly doubled—about an hour. This second rise makes the rolls even lighter and fluffier. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes until puffed up and a lovely light brown on top. Let them cool slightly before moving on to the final delicious step.

Step 6: Make and Drizzle the Icing

Whip together the confectioners’ sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk until you achieve a smooth, drizzlable consistency. Adjust the milk to get the perfect texture—thicker for spreading or thinner for a gentle drizzle. Pour this luscious glaze over the warm rolls and watch as it melts slightly into every crevice, adding that perfect sweet finish.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A baking tray filled with 12 red cinnamon rolls, arranged in three rows of four. Three rolls in the front left corner are being covered with smooth white icing, held by a woman's hand holding a spoon spreading the icing in circular motion on the swirled top layer. Each cinnamon roll has a spiral shape with dark red dough and a slightly rough texture inside the layers. The tray sits on a folded light beige cloth on a white marbled surface. The icing looks shiny and wet, contrasting with the matte red rolls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, try sprinkling a few edible red velvet crumbs or a pinch of cinnamon on top of the icing for extra color and flavor contrast. For a luxurious touch, add a few white chocolate shavings or a light dusting of powdered sugar—this will make your presentation look both festive and irresistible.

Side Dishes

These rolls are substantial enough to stand on their own but pairing them with fresh fruit, like berries or sliced oranges, adds a refreshing balance to their sweetness. A cup of hot coffee or a rich, creamy hot chocolate also pairs beautifully, enhancing the cozy, indulgent feel of this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of the traditional baking pan, you can bake these rolls in individual ramekins or muffin tins for charming single servings. Alternatively, arrange the rolls in a spiral on a round baking dish for a stunning visual effect. Serving them warm on a wooden board alongside whipped cream or mascarpone cheese invites everyone to dig in with their hands and enjoy this cozy treat together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (though that’s unlikely), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and the icing fresh. If you live somewhere humid, refrigerating them can help—but always warm them slightly before serving to regain that just-baked softness.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! Before the second rise, you can wrap the roll slices tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then allow the second rise before baking. If you have baked them already, wrap cooled rolls individually and freeze—then reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Reheating

When reheating, cover the rolls with foil to prevent drying out and warm them at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 30-60 seconds until just warm and soft. You may want to add a little extra icing after reheating to refresh their sweet glaze.

FAQs

Can I use homemade red velvet cake mix instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! You can substitute a homemade red velvet cake mix if you have your personal favorite recipe. Just make sure it includes the essential cocoa and vinegar components to capture that traditional red velvet flavor and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is surprisingly straightforward. The instructions walk you through each step, and the dough is forgiving, so even if this is your first time making cinnamon rolls, you’ll do great.

What’s the best way to achieve the signature red color?

The red velvet cake mix is formulated to give those beautiful, vibrant red tones. Using it as directed ensures a consistent color, but you can also boost the hue slightly with a little red food coloring if you prefer a deeper shade.

Can I make the icing dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! You can swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The consistency might vary slightly, but it will still be deliciously creamy and sweet.

How long do the cinnamon rolls keep their freshness?

Freshly baked and iced cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed within the first day or two to experience their soft texture and vibrant flavor. If you store them properly or freeze them, they can last longer, but the texture may change slightly over time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the union of red velvet and cinnamon in this roll recipe—every bite feels like a warm hug and a celebration all at once. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe brings joy and cozy sweetness to any day. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll make it again and again!