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Red Velvet Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Rolls – A Sweet, Soft, and Romantic Breakfast

Nothing starts Valentine’s Day better than the smell of warm cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven—and these Red Velvet Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Rolls take that magic to the next level. Soft, fluffy, deeply red, and swirled with cinnamon sugar, they’re finished with a smooth cream cheese glaze that melts into every layer. These rolls combine the cozy comfort of classic cinnamon rolls with the rich, slightly cocoa-kissed flavor of red velvet. The result is a breakfast that feels indulgent, festive, and made with love. Perfect for Valentine’s morning, brunch with family, or a sweet surprise for someone special, this recipe turns an ordinary breakfast into a memorable moment. If you’re looking for Valentine’s breakfast ideas, romantic homemade pastries, or soft bakery-style cinnamon rolls, this recipe is exactly what you need.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
bake & Rising time 1 hour 55 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10 cinnamon rolls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 13/16 cup warm milk
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 –3 tablespoons milk as needed

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or dough hook
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rolling Pin
  • Mixing spatula
  • Sharp knife or dough cutter
  • Baking dish
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy. This step ensures soft, fluffy rolls.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
  1. Add the egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined and evenly colored.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
  1. Gradually add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
  1. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
Step 5: First Rise
  1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare the Filling
  1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 7: Roll the Dough
  1. Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top.
Step 8: Shape the Rolls
  1. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into even rolls using a sharp knife or dough cutter.
Step 9: Second Rise
  1. Place the rolls into a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
Step 10: Bake
  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, until soft, fluffy, and fully baked.
Step 11: Make the Glaze
  1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 12: Glaze and Serve
  1. Spread the cream cheese glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm.
For best texture, reheat with a small splash of milk.
🥄 Variations
Make these red velvet cinnamon rolls even more special:
Extra Gooey: Add a little extra butter and brown sugar to the filling.
Mini Rolls: Slice thinner rolls for bite-sized portions.
Heart Shape: Arrange rolls in a heart pattern before baking.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze.
Overnight Option: Prepare rolls the night before and bake in the morning.
❓ 10 FAQs
Are these rolls very sweet?
They’re perfectly balanced—not overly sweet.
Why use cocoa powder?
It gives classic red velvet depth.
Can I prepare these ahead?
Yes, they’re great for overnight prep.
Do I need food coloring?
No, but it gives the signature red color.
Can kids enjoy these?
Absolutely—soft and mild flavors.
Why let the dough rise twice?
It creates a lighter, fluffier texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, perfect for gatherings.
What makes them soft?
Milk, butter, and proper rising.
Is cream cheese glaze necessary?
It’s highly recommended for flavor balance.
Are these good for Valentine’s morning?
Perfect—romantic and comforting.
🏁 Conclusion
These Red Velvet Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate way to say “I love you” through breakfast. Soft, fluffy, beautifully red, and topped with creamy glaze, they transform a simple morning into a heartfelt celebration.
Whether you’re sharing them with family, a partner, or enjoying a cozy moment alone, these rolls bring warmth, sweetness, and romance to the table—one swirl at a time.