Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Delightful red velvet cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing, perfect for breakfast or any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C) Milk should be warm but not hot.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened 1/2 block
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk Adjust for consistency
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the granulated sugar, egg, melted butter, and red food coloring, mixing well until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually integrate this dry blend into your wet ingredients until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.
Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until combined.
- Set aside.
Assemble the Rolls
- Once dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle approximately 14x9 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Cut the roll into 9-12 equal pieces.
Second Rise
- Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or round pan and place the rolled pieces inside.
- Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.
Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until creamy.
- Adjust thickness with more milk if necessary.
Finish and Serve
- Spread the cream cheese icing over warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
These rolls can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. For healthier alternatives, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat and reduce sugar.