Description

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the rich flavor of red velvet with the comforting goodness of cinnamon rolls. With a delicate cocoa dough, cinnamon-sugar swirl, and irresistible cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

¾ cup whole milk, warmed

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

1–2 tbsp red food coloring

For the Cinnamon Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup brown sugar, packed

2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cocoa powder.
In another bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, stirring until everything is well mixed.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough begins to form.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the cinnamon filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and cut it into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for 20-30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
While the rolls bake, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. If needed, add milk to reach the desired consistency.
Once the rolls are done, spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra indulgence, you can add chopped chocolate or chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling.
If you prefer a glaze instead of frosting, mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and a bit of milk for a simple glaze.
Mini versions can be made by cutting the dough into smaller pieces and adjusting the baking time.
The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Let it rise as instructed when you’re ready to bake.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 250
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg