Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Total Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rise time)
Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Soft, fluffy, and swirled with cinnamon sugar magic, these Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the kind of treat that makes people pause mid-bite and smile. They’re tender and buttery like a classic cinnamon roll, but with a delicate pink hue that adds charm, whimsy, and just the right touch of elegance. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into every spiral, these rolls are as stunning as they are delicious.

The texture is pillowy and light, thanks to a perfectly enriched dough. As they bake, the aroma of warm cinnamon, vanilla, and butter fills the kitchen, wrapping the space in comfort. The subtle cocoa undertone in the pink velvet dough adds depth without overpowering the cinnamon filling. Once frosted, the rolls become irresistibly creamy, with the tang of cream cheese balancing the sweet cinnamon swirl.

These rolls are perfect for Valentine’s Day brunch, baby showers, birthdays, or anytime you want something playful yet bakery-worthy. They’re especially loved by kids for their beautiful pink color and by adults for their soft texture and nostalgic flavor. Each roll averages about 420–480 calories, depending on frosting thickness and portion size.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Key Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating soft, fluffy, bakery-style cinnamon rolls with that signature pink velvet touch.

All-Purpose Flour (4 ½ cups) – Forms the structure of the dough, giving the rolls their soft yet stable crumb.

Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the dough slightly and feeds the yeast for a proper rise.

Active Dry Yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons / 1 packet) – Helps the dough rise, creating that airy, fluffy texture.

Whole Milk, warm (1 cup) – Activates the yeast and adds richness for a tender crumb.

Unsalted Butter, softened (½ cup) – Adds moisture, flavor, and softness to the dough.

Large Eggs (2, room temperature) – Provide structure and richness, helping the rolls stay soft.

Cocoa Powder (2 tablespoons) – Gives a subtle velvet flavor note without overpowering the cinnamon.

Pink Food Coloring (1–2 teaspoons) – Creates the vibrant pink velvet appearance. Gel coloring works best for bold color without thinning the dough.

Salt (1 teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – The heart of the cinnamon filling, providing caramel-like sweetness.

Ground Cinnamon (2 tablespoons) – Adds warmth and that classic cinnamon roll aroma.

Unsalted Butter, softened (⅓ cup) – Spread over the dough to hold the cinnamon sugar filling in place.

Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Adds depth to both dough and frosting.

Cream Cheese, softened (8 oz) – The base of the frosting, providing tangy richness.

Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens and smooths the frosting.

Heavy Cream (2–3 tablespoons) – Thins the frosting to a spreadable, silky consistency.

Light Cornstarch (1 teaspoon, optional) – Helps keep the filling from leaking too much during baking.

Every ingredient works together to create soft spirals filled with gooey cinnamon sweetness and topped with creamy frosting.

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Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls How to Make It

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C) and a tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be inactive.

Step 2: Make the Pink Velvet Dough

Add softened butter, remaining sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, pink food coloring, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.

Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes with a dough hook on medium speed. The dough should be soft, slightly tacky, and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional cornstarch. Set aside.

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly across the surface, leaving a small border along the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut into 12 equal rolls.

Place rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes until lightly golden on top. The centers should be cooked through but still soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain that fluffy texture.

Let rolls cool for 10–15 minutes before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.

Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Frost and Finish

Spread the frosting generously over warm rolls. The heat will gently melt the frosting, allowing it to seep into every swirl.

For extra flair, sprinkle pink sugar crystals or white chocolate shavings on top.

The finished rolls should be soft, vibrant pink inside, with thick swirls of cinnamon sugar and creamy frosting cascading over the edges.

Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Serving Suggestions

Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls make a stunning centerpiece for brunch tables. Serve them warm on a large white platter so the pink color pops beautifully. Add fresh strawberries or raspberries around the edges for a cohesive color palette. A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a delicate, bakery-style finish. Pair them with hot coffee, vanilla lattes, or strawberry milk for a charming presentation.

For individual servings, place one roll on a small dessert plate and drizzle extra frosting over the top just before serving. Add a few fresh berries on the side for balance and brightness. You can even turn them into a brunch board by arranging rolls alongside fruit, yogurt, and small bowls of extra frosting or flavored syrups. For special occasions, place each roll in a cupcake liner and tie with decorative ribbon for a giftable treat.

These rolls are also wonderful for breakfast-in-bed surprises or holiday mornings when something sweet and cheerful feels just right.

Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls Storage + Meal Prep

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is important. When ready to eat, warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore their soft, fluffy texture.

To freeze, store unfrosted baked rolls tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, warm slightly, and frost fresh for best results. You can also prepare the rolls the night before baking. After cutting and placing them in the baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30–45 minutes before baking in the morning.

If the frosting thickens after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or add a splash of cream and whisk until smooth again.

Conclusion

Pink Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting combine comfort and charm in the most delightful way. They’re soft, sweet, and swirled with cinnamon warmth, while the creamy frosting adds a tangy finish that melts into every bite. The vibrant pink color makes them playful and celebratory, yet the flavor remains classic and comforting.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something beautiful and homemade, these rolls deliver both flavor and visual appeal. Try them once, and they may become your go-to showstopper for brunches and celebrations. Don’t forget to share your creations and add your own twist—maybe a strawberry glaze drizzle or white chocolate chips in the filling. Happy baking!