February 15, 2026

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
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Every family has that one recipe — In our family, that recipe is Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls.They’re more than just a sweet breakfast treat. They’re tradition. These rolls have become a symbol of togetherness — made for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and “just because” weekends when we need something warm and comforting.

And today, I’m sharing that family recipe with you.

Here’s why these rolls stand out:

  • Incredibly soft, pillowy texture
  • Subtle cocoa richness without being overpowering
  • Perfect balance of sweetness and spice
  • Eye-catching red color for special occasions
  • Classic cream cheese frosting that melts into every bite

Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, Valentine’s Day, or simply a weekend baking project, these rolls are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need…..

All-purpose flour

Active dry yeast

Warm milk

Granulated sugar

Egg

Unsalted butter

Cocoa powder

Vanilla extract

Red food coloring

Salt

TIPS FOR PERFECT ROLLS…..

✔ Don’t overheat the milk — it should be warm, not hot (around 110°F).
âś” Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother dough.
✔For extra indulgence, add mini chocolate chips to the filling.
âś” Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting for the perfect melt.

Family recipes aren’t just about ingredients. They’re about connection, comfort, and carrying something forward.

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls have become part of our story. Maybe they’ll become part of yours, too.

If you try this recipe, I hope it fills your kitchen with warmth and your table with smiles — just like it does in ours. ❤️

Scroll down for the complete recipe….

Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course Valentines Day Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsps active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup softened, unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring
  • 1/2 tsp salt

FILLING

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tbsps ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup softened butter

CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup softened butter
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsps milk

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add the egg, butter, vanilla, red food coloring, and yeast mixture.
    Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
  • Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Spread softened butter evenly over the surface.
    Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle generously over the butter.
    Roll tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice into 9–12 rolls and place into a greased baking dish.
    Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).Bake for 20–25 minutes until the centers are set and the tops are slightly golden.
  • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then thin with milk as needed.
  • Spread over warm rolls so it melts into the swirls.
  • ENJOY!!
  • Picture from Taste Of Home.
Keyword Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, special treat for valentine’s day
Author:
Filed Under: Cozy Valentine Comfort Food 🕯️🍲
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