Description
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a luscious twist on a classic. Soft, fluffy rolls filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, baked to perfection, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
- 1/2 cup water, warm
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
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For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Make the Dough
In a small bowl, mix warm milk, water, and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cocoa powder. Add yeast mixture, eggs, butter, food coloring, and vanilla. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to make the filling.
3. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Roll it up tightly and slice into 12 pieces. Place rolls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Let them rise for 30 minutes.
4. Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Frost and Serve
While the rolls are baking, make the frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Frost the warm rolls generously and serve immediately.
Notes
- Dough Rising: Make sure to give the dough ample time to rise. Rushing this step will result in denser rolls.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for the best texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the rolls before baking. After slicing, freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw overnight and allow them to rise before baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg