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Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk until warm (about 110°F/43°C). Stir in the granulated sugar and active dry yeast, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
- Mix everything together to form a soft dough. Knead for about 5-7 minutes on a lightly floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, soften the butter to spreadable consistency. Set both the butter and cinnamon mixture aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Step 4: Roll & Slice the Cinnamon Rolls
- Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
- Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them in a slightly overlapping pattern.
- Cover the dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy and doubled in size.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Be sure to check the rolls in the center to ensure they’re cooked through.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 7: Frost & Serve
- Once the rolls are baked and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the soft, decadent goodness!
Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
✔ Don’t overbake – The rolls should be soft and slightly golden, but not too browned.
✔ Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color and avoid any unwanted liquid in the dough.
✔ Let the dough rise in a warm spot – If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with the light on or cover it with a blanket for warmth.
✔ Double the frosting if you love extra cream cheese goodness on your rolls!
Variations
❤️ Chocolate Red Velvet Rolls – Add mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for an extra indulgent treat.
❤️ Nutty Red Velvet Rolls – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cinnamon filling for some crunch.
❤️ Cream Cheese & Strawberry – Add a dollop of strawberry jam or fresh strawberries to the frosting for a fruity twist.
Final Thoughts
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect balance of sweet, rich, and comforting flavors, with the signature red velvet touch that adds an irresistible visual appeal. Whether you’re baking for a special brunch or simply craving a sweet treat, these rolls are guaranteed to be a showstopper!
Do you prefer your cinnamon rolls with extra frosting or a unique flavor twist? Let me know how you like to enjoy them! 😊🍓🍰
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