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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Dominique

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls promise an unforgettable sensory experience with soft, tender dough filled with a buttery brown sugar and spice mixture, crowned with luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any special indulgence, bringing warmth and joy to any gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1-2 tablespoons red food coloring
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (for filling)
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamo
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (for frosting)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons whole milk

Method
 

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: To the activated yeast mixture, add the remaining granulated sugar, egg, melted butter, cocoa powder, red food coloring, and salt. Whisk everything together until well combined.
  3. Add Flour & Knead: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 5-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.
  5. Prepare the Filling: Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  6. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough, roll it into a large rectangle (12x18 inches).
  7. Spread the Filling: Spread the filling over the dough, leaving a small border.
  8. Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces.
  9. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
  10. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
  11. Prepare the Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, gradually add sifted powdered sugar and vanilla. Adjust consistency with milk.
  12. Frost and Serve: Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly, frost generously, and serve.

Notes

Store unfrosted rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days; frosted rolls in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For freezing, wrap each roll and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1-2 months.