Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and active dry yeast. In a separate bowl, mix the warm whole milk with melted unsalted butter, ensuring it's well-combined. Pour this liquid mixture into the dry ingredients along with the room-temperature eggs and red gel food coloring. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.
- Gradually incorporate the remaining 2 cups of flour into the sticky mixture, kneading the dough on a floured surface for about five minutes. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which typically takes about one hour.
- After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately half an inch thick.
- Spread softened unsalted butter generously over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cocoa powder evenly on top. Roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, creating a log.
- Slice the dough log into even pieces, ideally about twelve. Place these pieces cut-side up in a greased baking dish. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about thirty minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for approximately twenty-five minutes until golden brown.
- While the cinnamon rolls cool slightly, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls and serve.
Nutrition
Notes
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
