These Red Velvet Mini Cinnamon Rolls are a fun and festive twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar. With a soft, buttery dough and a sweet glaze drizzled on top, these mini rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday breakfast, a party dessert, or just a cozy afternoon snack. They’re quick and easy to make, using refrigerated crescent roll dough for a simple, yet indulgent, treat that tastes as good as it looks.

The striking red color, paired with the delicious cinnamon-sugar filling, makes these mini cinnamon rolls a visually appealing dessert that’s sure to impress guests. Plus, they’re bite-sized, making them perfect for serving at parties or enjoying as a sweet snack throughout the day. With the addition of the red velvet cake mix, these rolls take on a unique, rich flavor that sets them apart from ordinary cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re a fan of red velvet or simply love cinnamon rolls, these mini rolls are a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Red Velvet Mini Cinnamon Rolls are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The cinnamon-sugar filling combined with the soft crescent dough creates the perfect texture and sweetness. The red velvet cake mix adds a unique twist, giving the rolls a deliciously moist and subtly chocolatey flavor. Top them off with a sweet powdered sugar glaze for an irresistible finish. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these mini cinnamon rolls are the perfect treat. Plus, they’re bite-sized, making them easy to share and enjoy with friends and family.

Ingredients

For the cinnamon rolls:

Refrigerated crescent rolls
Butter, melted
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Red velvet cake mix

For the glaze:

Powdered sugar
Milk
Red food coloring (optional)

Variations

Flavor Variations: Try substituting the red velvet cake mix with a chocolate cake mix for a chocolate cinnamon roll variation. You can also experiment with different cake mixes like vanilla or strawberry for a unique twist.
Toppings: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle crushed nuts (like pecans or walnuts) on top of the cinnamon rolls before baking.
Dairy-Free Option: If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a plant-based butter substitute and use a non-dairy milk for the glaze.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

Step 2: Prepare the dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 2 rectangles. Pinch the seams together to form solid rectangles without gaps.

Step 3: Add the butter

Brush the melted butter evenly over the surface of the dough.

Step 4: Prepare the filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and red velvet cake mix. Mix until fully combined, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 5: Roll and slice

Starting at the short end, roll each rectangle of dough into a tight log. Cut each roll into 12 slices to form mini cinnamon rolls.

Step 6: Arrange the rolls

Place the sliced mini rolls into the prepared mini muffin tin, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded.

Step 7: Bake the rolls

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the mini rolls are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8: Make the glaze

While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and red food coloring (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Drizzle the glaze

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the warm mini cinnamon rolls. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Be sure to pinch the seams of the crescent dough together to avoid the filling leaking out while baking.
For a more decadent treat, you can add a dash of vanilla extract to the glaze for extra flavor.
If you don’t have a mini muffin tin, you can bake the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; just space them a little further apart.
Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off too quickly.

How to Serve

These Red Velvet Mini Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, right after the glaze is drizzled on top. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack during the day. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence. They also make a great addition to a dessert table or holiday spread, adding both flavor and a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the mini cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm.

Freezing

These mini cinnamon rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, arrange the baked rolls on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

Reheating

To reheat the rolls, simply microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds or place them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cinnamon rolls instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, you can substitute the crescent rolls with regular cinnamon roll dough, though the texture may be slightly different.

2. Is the red food coloring necessary?

No, the red food coloring is optional. It adds to the visual appeal, but the taste of the rolls will be the same without it.

3. Can I use a different type of frosting for these rolls?

Yes, you can use cream cheese frosting instead of the powdered sugar glaze for a richer flavor.

4. How do I prevent the filling from spilling out while baking?

Be sure to pinch the seams of the crescent dough tightly together to seal in the filling before rolling up the dough.

5. Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini muffin tin?

Yes, you can use a regular muffin tin, but the rolls will be larger and the baking time may vary slightly.

6. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. When ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

7. Can I freeze these rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

8. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, you can experiment with other cake mix flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry for a different taste.

9. Can I make a larger batch?

You can easily double the recipe if you need to make more mini cinnamon rolls. Just use two tubes of crescent dough and a larger muffin tin.

10. How do I know when the mini cinnamon rolls are done?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown and puffed up. A toothpick inserted into the center of one roll should come out clean.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Mini Cinnamon Rolls are a fun and delicious treat that combines the best elements of cinnamon rolls and red velvet cake. They’re easy to make, quick to bake, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, serving them at a party, or just treating yourself to something special, these mini cinnamon rolls are sure to impress. With their striking color, sweet glaze, and warm, cinnamon-filled center, they’re a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at.