If you adore the rich, tender crumb of classic cinnamon rolls but want to elevate your breakfast or brunch game, this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will absolutely blow you away. Combining the luxurious hue and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet cake mix with the warm, comforting spices of cinnamon, these rolls are the perfect treat that look stunning and taste even better. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you deserve something extraordinary, these cinnamon rolls will be your new favorite indulgence.

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

This Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe calls for a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. Each component plays a vital role, from the vibrant red velvet cake mix adding color and flavor, to the cinnamon sugar mixture that brings in the classic roll’s signature spice and sweetness.

Red velvet cake mix (regular size): The star of the show, it delivers that distinctive deep red color and mild cocoa hint for irresistible rolls.
All-purpose flour (2-1/2 to 3 cups): Essential for developing the dough’s structure, ensuring the rolls are soft yet hold their shape.
Active dry yeast (1 package – 1/4 ounce): This little powerhouse is what makes the dough rise beautifully, creating fluffy, light rolls.
Warm water (1-1/4 cups, 110° to 115°): Activates the yeast and helps blend the ingredients into a smooth dough.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Provides deep sweetness and moisture to the cinnamon-sugar filling.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds the aromatic warmth that defines every cinnamon roll.
Butter (1/4 cup, melted): Moistens the dough and acts as the base for the cinnamon sugar, enriching every bite.
Confectioners’ sugar (2 cups): For the luscious, sweet icing that perfectly finishes the rolls.
Butter (2 tablespoons, softened): Creates a creamy texture in the icing.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant touch that rounds out the icing’s flavor.
2% Milk (3 to 5 tablespoons): Adjusted to get the icing to the perfect consistency for drizzling.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Rise the Dough

Start by mixing the red velvet cake mix, one cup of flour, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Add warm water and beat on medium speed for two minutes to activate the yeast and combine the ingredients. Gradually stir in enough of the remaining flour until you have a soft but slightly sticky dough. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently six to eight times—that delivers just the right texture without overworking it. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once so it’s coated in butter, then cover and let it rise in a warm spot for about two hours until it doubles in size. This resting step is where the magic happens, developing flavor and that fluffy texture we all love.

Step 2: Roll and Fill

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and place it on a floured surface again. Roll it out into a rectangle measuring about 18 by 10 inches. Brush the entire surface, except for a small border around the edges, with melted butter—this richness helps create the decadent layers. Sprinkle evenly with your cinnamon and brown sugar mixture, making sure every bite will have a sweet, spicy kick. Then, roll the dough up tightly like a jelly roll, starting from the long edge, and pinch the seam to seal it in so it doesn’t unravel while baking.

Step 3: Slice and Second Rise

Cut the rolled dough crosswise into 12 equal slices, placing each cut side up in a greased 13 by 9-inch pan. Cover with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise again in a warm spot for about an hour, until nearly doubled in size. This second rise ensures the rolls will be soft and pillowy with that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture once baked.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls until they are puffed up and lightly browned, which takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—pull them as soon as they look golden and inviting. Let them cool slightly so they’re warm but won’t melt your icing immediately.

Step 5: Make and Drizzle the Icing

While the rolls bake, whip up the finishing touch: the cream cheese-inspired icing. Beat together confectioners’ sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and enough 2% milk to reach a smooth, drizzling consistency. Once your rolls have cooled just enough, drizzle the icing generously over the top. This luscious glaze finishes the rolls with a sweet, velvety coat that enhances both the flavor and visual appeal.

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

Consider sprinkling a few toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the icing to add a wonderful crunch that balances the soft, tender rolls. Fresh berries also provide a lovely pop of color and a refreshing contrast in flavor, perfectly complementing the richness of the red velvet cinnamon rolls.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk to balance their sweetness. For a more indulgent brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or savory scrambled eggs—this contrast between sweet and savory makes each bite even more rewarding.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or family? Serve your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe on a beautiful cake stand or a rustic wooden board, arranging them with fresh flowers or sprigs of mint around for a charming, inviting display. You could also create a layered cinnamon roll trifle with whipped cream and berries for something extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though these rolls rarely stick around!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The rolls stay wonderfully soft and can be enjoyed cold or warmed up.

Freezing

To enjoy these treats later, freeze unbaked rolls after the first rise by placing them in an airtight container or plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge and allow a second rise on the counter before baking as usual.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or in an oven set to 300°F for 5 to 10 minutes. This refreshes their soft texture and brings the icing back to that melty, irresistible state.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?

Yes, although the red velvet cake mix gives a unique flavor and striking color, feel free to experiment with chocolate or even classic yellow cake mixes for a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor and color will vary.

Do I have to use active dry yeast?

Active dry yeast works best here for reliable rising, but instant yeast can be substituted in equal amounts if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the rising times accordingly.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

With some ingredient swaps like plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk for the icing, you can make this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe vegan. Just ensure your cake mix doesn’t contain eggs or dairy.

How long do the rolls keep fresh?

Freshly baked rolls will stay soft and delicious for about two days at room temperature. Storing them properly and reheating as needed helps maintain their delightful texture.

Is there a way to make the dough less sticky?

A sticky dough is normal here due to the cake mix, but if it feels too wet to handle, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Just be careful not to add too much or your rolls might become dense.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to give this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe a try because it truly changes the cinnamon roll game. The beautiful color, the perfect balance of cocoa and cinnamon, and the soft, tender crumb make every bite a delight. Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll be the centerpiece of your breakfast table and the treat everyone asks for again and again. So preheat that oven and let’s get rolling!

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