Description
Add a luxurious twist to classic cinnamon rolls with these Soft and Decadent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. Made with rich, cocoa-infused dough, a sweet cinnamon filling, and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, they’re the perfect centerpiece for holidays, brunch, or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, mix the warmed milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
- Make the Dough:
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, until the dough forms a soft ball.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Add the Filling:
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Roll and Slice:
- Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and seal the seam.
- Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Arrange the Rolls:
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over warm rolls and serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American