RED VELVET CINNAMON ROLLS – PERFECT FOR VALENTINE’S DAY BRUNCH
Valentine’s Day calls for a breakfast that feels extra special, decadent, and festive. These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls hit all the right notes: soft, fluffy, and tender rolls swirled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, vibrant red dough, and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Every bite is a celebration of love and flavor.
Not only are these rolls visually stunning, they are also irresistibly soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a sweet morning surprise, they bring warmth and joy to the table. From the romantic red hue to the creamy frosting that drapes over each roll, every detail makes them memorable.
THE STORY BEHIND THE RECIPE
Inspired by the classic red velvet cake, these cinnamon rolls combine two beloved treats: the comforting, swirled cinnamon roll and the rich, indulgent red velvet cake. The result is an eye-catching, festive treat perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.
The recipe uses simple ingredients, but the process feels like creating a work of art. Rolling out the vibrant dough, layering the cinnamon filling, and finishing with creamy frosting makes every step enjoyable—and the aroma will fill your kitchen with love.
INGREDIENTS
For the Dough
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
- Red food coloring (about 2–3 tbsp, or until desired red hue)
For the Cinnamon Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for desired consistency)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Add red food coloring and mix until uniform. Gradually add flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then pour in the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 5–7 minutes.
3. First rise
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the filling
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough surface, then sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
5. Roll and shape
Roll the dough into a rectangle (~12×16 inches). Spread the filling evenly. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Slice into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
6. Second rise
Cover rolls and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
7. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through.
8. Make the frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until creamy. Add milk if needed for spreading consistency.
9. Frost and serve
Spread frosting over warm rolls. Serve immediately for soft, gooey perfection.
WHY THESE ROLLS WORK
- Red Velvet Dough: Provides a visually stunning, festive base.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Classic flavor that balances sweetness with spice.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds richness and a tangy contrast to the sweet dough.
- Soft Texture: The dough is tender and airy, perfect for brunch or dessert.
CHEF TIPS
- Use room-temperature eggs and butter for easier mixing.
- Don’t overbake; rolls should be soft, not dry.
- Add a pinch of salt to the frosting to enhance flavor.
- Try mini versions for a bite-sized Valentine’s Day treat.
VARIATIONS
Nutty Version
Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for crunch.
Chocolate Lovers
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside the swirl for extra decadence.
Berry Twist
Add fresh raspberries between the cinnamon layer and roll for a fruity surprise.
Vegan Adaptation
Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cream cheese frosting.
STORAGE
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
- Refrigerate up to 5 days; warm slightly before serving.
- Rolls can also be frozen after baking, thawed, and reheated.
Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and red food coloring.
- Gradually add flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then pour in the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic, 5–7 minutes.
- Cover dough and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread softened butter over dough surface, then sprinkle filling evenly.
- Roll dough into a rectangle and then into a log. Slice into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
- Cover and let rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls 20–25 minutes until lightly golden.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mix until creamy. Add milk if needed.
- Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
SERVING IDEAS
- Serve with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for brunch.
- Perfect centerpiece for Valentine’s Day morning.
- Pair with fresh berries or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
FINAL THOUGHTS
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls bring festive joy and delicious flavors to your Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. Soft, vibrant, and loaded with sweet cinnamon filling and cream cheese frosting, they impress both in taste and presentation. They’re a perfect blend of elegance and comfort that will make your brunch unforgettable.
