Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 3 h 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup bread flour; 3/4 cup water; 1/3 cup whole milk (room temperature); 1/3 cup heavy cream (room temperature); 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 3 2/3 cups bread flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Tangzhong from the recipe above; 1/2-1 teaspoon red gel food coloring; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cool room temperature); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 2/3 cup light brown sugar (packed); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 2 teaspoons cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract

Print Recipe·4 from 14 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and love a good homemade treat, you are going to adore this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe. These rolls are the perfect harmony of tender, fluffy dough with the rich, slightly chocolaty flavor of red velvet, all wrapped around a warmly spiced cinnamon filling. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into every swirl, these cinnamon rolls might just become your new favorite breakfast or dessert indulgence. The best part is they are made entirely from scratch, which means every bite bursts with freshness and love that store-bought versions simply cannot match.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a rolled fruit leather strip placed on a wooden surface. The roll has multiple thin layers with a bright red outer layer and a darker brown inner layer, tightly coiled into a small spiral shape. In the background, several flat strips of the same fruit leather in alternating red and brown colors are spread out evenly on the wooden surface, creating a neat pattern. The focus is on the spiral roll, with a shallow depth of field that softly blurs the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the magic happen with your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe. Luckily, the list features straightforward pantry staples alongside some special touches that bring out the deep red color, tender crumb, and delightful flavor of this classic treat.

Bread flour: Provides the perfect structure and chewiness for soft, pillowy rolls.
Whole milk and heavy cream: Adds richness and moisture for a tender dough.
White vinegar: Reacts with the baking agents to enhance the texture and a hint of tanginess.
Granulated sugar and light brown sugar: Sweetens the dough and the filling with a subtle molasses flavor from the brown sugar.
Cocoa powder: Infuses the familiar red velvet chocolate undertone that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Instant yeast: Powers the rise for fluffy, airy rolls.
Red gel food coloring: Gives the signature bright red hue that makes these rolls instantly eye-catching.
Unsalted butter: Used in both the dough and filling for that creamy, indulgent texture.
Egg and vanilla: Contribute richness and aromatic depth to the dough.
Ground cinnamon and vanilla bean paste: Essential for that warm, comforting cinnamon filling and flavorful frosting.
Cream cheese and powdered sugar: The star ingredients of the dreamy frosting that tops these rolls.

How to Make Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Make the Tangzhong

Start by whisking together bread flour and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Keep whisking constantly for about 4-5 minutes until it transforms into a paste-like slurry. This tangzhong starter is the secret behind ultra-soft cinnamon rolls, locking in moisture and creating a tender crumb. Set this aside to cool before incorporating it into the dough.

Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a small bowl, combine whole milk, heavy cream, and white vinegar. Let it sit while you prepare the dry ingredients. This mixture adds richness and the vinegar subtly tenderizes the dough while enhancing the red velvet flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together bread flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. These dry ingredients form the base of your dough, with the cocoa powder lending the slight chocolate notes that every red velvet treat needs.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Add the milk/cream mixture, egg, vanilla extract, cooled tangzhong, and red gel food coloring to the dry ingredients. Using a dough hook on low speed, knead for 2 minutes until a shaggy dough begins to form. Then, add softened butter gradually, allowing each bit to incorporate fully. Continue kneading for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, signaling that your dough is ready.

Step 5: First Rise

Shape the dough into a smooth ball by folding the edges under, then place it back in the bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This brief rest rejuvenates the dough before shaping.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

Mix unsalted butter with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, cocoa powder, and vanilla bean paste until smooth and well combined. This filling will be generously spread on the rolled dough, infusing every bite with warm spice and sweet chocolate undertones.

Step 7: Roll Out and Fill

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a 15×21-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough using an offset spatula, ensuring every corner is covered for maximum flavor in each roll.

Step 8: Shape and Second Rise

Cut the dough into twelve even 1 3/4-inch strips using a pizza cutter. Roll each strip away from you into tight spirals and carefully place them into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 28-35 minutes, or until the center of the middle rolls reaches an internal temperature between 175-180°F. You’ll know they’re beautifully baked when they are puffed with a golden red-tinted crust.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until fluffy, then mix in vanilla bean paste and heavy cream. This frosting perfectly balances the warm spices and fruitiness of the rolls with its creamy sweetness.

Step 11: Cool and Frost

Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before spreading them generously with the cream cheese frosting. Let them sit for another 15 minutes to let the frosting soak in slightly—this step makes every bite irresistibly soft and flavorful.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a group of red and brown swirled rolls with a shiny white icing layer spread thick over the top of each one, creating a soft texture. On top of the icing, there is a colorful mix of heart-shaped, star-shaped, and round sprinkles in red, pink, and white colors scattered evenly, adding a playful and festive look. The rolls are tightly packed together and sit on a bright white marbled surface which contrasts with the vibrant colors of the rolls and sprinkles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of crushed pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft rolls. You can also dust a tiny pinch of cinnamon or drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate for extra elegance. These small touches elevate the presentation and flavor for your guests.

Side Dishes

Serve these cinnamon rolls alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate to amplify their cozy vibe. For a brunch setting, pair them with a simple fruit salad, fresh orange juice, or even scrambled eggs for a balanced meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique twist, serve mini individual rolls in ramekins topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. Alternatively, create a cinnamon roll stack drizzled with caramel sauce for an impressive dessert centerpiece. The vibrant red color makes these rolls particularly festive for holidays or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the rolls soft, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This helps trap moisture and maintain the rolls’ tender texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked or baked cinnamon rolls for convenience. For unbaked,Shape the rolls and freeze them in the pan covered tightly with plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months, then thaw and let rise before baking. For baked rolls, cool completely, wrap individually or in batches, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until soft and warm, or place a batch covered with foil in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Reheating brings back that freshly baked feeling and helps the frosting soften beautifully once again.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of bread flour?

While regular all-purpose flour can be used, bread flour is recommended due to its higher protein content, which creates the ideal chewy texture in cinnamon rolls. Using all-purpose may result in a softer, less structured roll.

What if I don’t have red gel food coloring?

You can substitute with liquid food coloring, but gel works best because it doesn’t affect the dough’s consistency. Without coloring, the rolls will still taste amazing but will lack the signature red velvet appearance.

Is there a way to make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

To veganize this recipe, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter, and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg. Also, make sure to use vegan cream cheese for the frosting.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate overnight. The slow rise will enhance the flavor and allow you to bake fresh rolls the next morning with ease.

How do I know when the cinnamon rolls are fully baked?

The best method is to check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should be around 175-180°F. You’ll also notice the rolls have puffed nicely and have a slightly golden sheen on top.

Final Thoughts

Making this Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe is truly a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with the most wonderful aromas and delivers the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re treating yourself or delighting friends and family, these rolls are a showstopper that tastes just like love baked in. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every delicious step of this unforgettable baking adventure!