Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a luxurious twist on the classic cinnamon roll, perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or simply whenever you’re in the mood for something decadent. These rolls combine the rich, cocoa-flavored red velvet dough with a sweet cinnamon filling, topped with creamy and tangy cream cheese icing. They’re soft, fluffy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Dough:

• Flour: 2 ½ – 3 cups all-purpose
• Sugar: ¼ cup granulated
• Yeast: 2 ¼ tsp instant or active dry yeast
• Cocoa Powder: 2 tbsp unsweetened
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Milk: ¾ cup warm (110°F)
• Butter: 3 tbsp melted
• Egg: 1 large
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
• Red Food Coloring: Gel or liquid to achieve the desired color

Filling:

• Butter: ½ cup softened
• Brown Sugar: ½ cup packed
• Cinnamon: 2 tbsp ground
• Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup

Cream Cheese Icing:

• Cream Cheese: 4 oz softened
• Butter: ¼ cup softened
• Powdered Sugar: 1 cup
• Vanilla Extract: ½ tsp
• Milk (Optional): 1-2 tbsp to adjust consistency.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • Combine flour, sugar, yeast, cocoa powder, and salt in a bowl.
   • Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Stir until a dough forms.
   • Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise in a greased bowl for 1½ hours or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling:
   • Mix softened butter with sugars and cinnamon until creamy.
3. Assemble Rolls:
   • Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly.
   • Roll tightly into a log and cut into 12 slices. Place in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Prepare the Icing:
   • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla. Add milk for a thinner consistency.
6. Finish:
   • Spread icing over warm rolls and serve.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat for any celebration, combining the iconic red velvet flavor with the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls. Serve them fresh with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a truly indulgent experience. Store leftovers refrigerated, and enjoy within 3-5 days for the best flavor.