Description
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are pure bliss—fluffy, chocolatey dough swirled with cinnamon-sugar and crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or whenever you want a show-stopping sweet treat!
Ingredients
For the dough:
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1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
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¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 large egg
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2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp red food coloring (gel preferred)
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½ tsp salt
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2¾ to 3 cups all-purpose flour
For the filling:
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½ cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the cream cheese frosting:
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup powdered sugar
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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1–2 tbsp milk (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
1️⃣ Activate yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Mix wet base: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, egg, cocoa powder, vanilla, and red food coloring. Mix until smooth.
3️⃣ Form the dough: Add yeast mixture, then gradually stir in flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
4️⃣ First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.
5️⃣ Prepare filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
6️⃣ Roll and fill: Roll dough into a 9×14-inch rectangle. Spread with softened butter and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar.
7️⃣ Shape rolls: Roll up tightly from the long side. Slice into 9–12 rolls.
8️⃣ Second rise: Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
9️⃣ Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden and cooked through.
🔟 Make frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk to reach spreadable consistency.
1️⃣1️⃣ Serve: Frost warm rolls generously and enjoy!
Notes
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Food Coloring: Gel coloring gives vibrant results without thinning the dough.
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Make Ahead: Prep the rolls the night before and refrigerate before the second rise.
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Flavor Boost: Add a touch of orange zest to the frosting for a citrusy contrast.
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Storage: Store frosted rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze unfrosted.
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Special Occasion: A stunning centerpiece for Valentine’s Day, holidays, or brunch gatherings.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes