Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Dough:; 1 box red velvet cake mix; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 ¼ cups warm water; For the Filling:; 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ⅓ cup melted butter; For the Cream Cheese Icing:; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 1 ½ cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup cream cheese (at room temperature); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon salt

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These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious! Made with red velvet cake mix, they’re topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese icing that adds an indulgent twist to the classic cinnamon roll. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a dessert, these rolls are a decadent treat that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Who doesn’t love cinnamon rolls, especially when they’re given a vibrant red velvet twist? These rolls are as visually striking as they are delicious, with their rich red hue and soft, pillowy texture. The combination of sweet brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in the filling makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious, while the tangy cream cheese icing adds the perfect creamy finish. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a comforting treat, these red velvet cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 box red velvet cake mix
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 ¼ cups warm water

For the Filling:

1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
⅓ cup melted butter

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
¼ cup cream cheese (at room temperature)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, 1 cup of the flour, and yeast. Add the warm water and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Switch to a dough hook attachment and gradually add enough of the remaining flour to form a soft dough (it will be slightly sticky). Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. Roll the Dough:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a 16×12-inch rectangle, about ¼ inch in thickness. Spread the melted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.

4. Form the Rolls:

Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the dough into 1 ½-inch slices and place them in the prepared baking dish. Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

5. Bake the Rolls:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. (Cooking time may vary depending on your oven.)

6. Make the Icing:

While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing the softened butter, powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl. Beat well with an electric mixer until fluffy and smooth.

7. Ice the Rolls:

Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese icing generously over the top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chips: Add some mini chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, chocolatey twist.
Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a crunchy texture.
Coconut Flakes: For a tropical flair, sprinkle some shredded coconut in the filling before rolling up the dough.
Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl cream cheese filling into the dough before rolling it up for a richer, creamier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked rolls before the final rise. Cover them with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then allow them to rise and bake as directed.
Reheating: To reheat, place the rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with other flavors, like chocolate or vanilla cake mix, to make different versions of these cinnamon rolls.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. The next day, take it out and let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

3. Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?

While store-bought cream cheese frosting can be used, homemade cream cheese icing offers a fresher, more flavorful taste and texture.

4. Can I make these rolls without yeast?

While yeast is ideal for creating the soft, fluffy texture, you can use a quick-rise dough using baking powder instead. However, it may change the texture slightly.

5. How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and have risen well. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the rolls should feel soft to the touch.

6. Can I make mini rolls?

Yes, you can make smaller rolls by cutting the dough into smaller pieces before baking. You may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

7. Can I add food coloring to the icing?

Yes, you can add a few drops of red food coloring to the icing for an extra pop of color that matches the red velvet dough.

8. Can I substitute the butter in the icing?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with more cream cheese or use a non-dairy butter substitute for a dairy-free version.

9. Can I make the icing in advance?

Yes, the icing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it come to room temperature before spreading on the rolls.

10. How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from spilling out of the rolls?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly, but not too tightly, to ensure the filling stays inside. Pressing the edges together slightly will also help seal the rolls.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a showstopper, combining the richness of red velvet cake with the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. The soft, fluffy dough paired with the creamy, tangy icing creates the perfect balance of flavors. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet breakfast treat, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household!