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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Irresistibly Soft Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Crave

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic, combining cinnamon and cocoa flavors with a stunning red color.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • baking dish
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour This is the foundation of your rolls, providing that soft, chewy texture.
  • 1 cup milk Warm milk helps activate the yeast for a fluffy rise.
  • ½ cup sugar Sweetens the dough and balances the cocoa's bitterness.
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds a rich chocolate flavor to our red velvet cinnamon rolls!
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened Infuses richness and moisture into the dough.
  • 2 large eggs Acts as a binding agent, creating that lovely structure.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Brings out the sweet and rich flavors in the rolls.
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda Helps with texture and promotes the perfect rise.
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast Essential for that delightful fluffiness!

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened Provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened Adds richness to the frosting.
  • ½ cup powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting and adds a smooth finish.
  • 1 teaspoon milk Adjusts the consistency for perfect spreading.

For the Red Color

  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring This key ingredient gives your rolls that signature red velvet appearance!

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

  • Activate the Yeast: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm milk (about 110°F). Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 4 cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, ¼ cup cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients: Add ½ cup butter, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons red food coloring to dry ingredients. Mix until a batter forms.
  • Incorporate the Yeast Mixture: Pour the activated yeast mixture into the dry and wet ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  • Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the dough, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
  • Add the Filling: Spread softened butter over the dough, sprinkle with cinnamon, and roll the dough into a tight log.
  • Slice the Rolls: Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place in a greased baking dish, cut side up.
  • Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the Rolls: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Prepare the Frosting: Mix together ½ cup cream cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, ½ cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon milk until smooth.
  • Frost the Rolls: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top.

Notes

Use warm milk to activate the yeast correctly and knead the dough until smooth for best results.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg
Keyword baking, Brunch, Cinnamon Rolls, Cream Cheese Frosting, Desserts, Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
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