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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Indulgent Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls for Sweet Moments

Delight in these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, a sweet twist blending rich flavors with comforting warmth, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rising Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour perfect for achieving that fluffy cinnamon roll texture
  • 2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor that complements the red velvet
  • 1 cup granulated sugar sweetens the dough beautifully for a delightful taste
  • 2.25 teaspoon active dry yeast ensures your rolls rise and become wonderfully fluffy
  • 1 cup whole milk (warm) activates the yeast and helps the dough rise
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter (melted) adds richness and moisture to the dough
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature) helps with emulsification, giving the dough structure
  • 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring intensifies the red velvet look, making these rolls festive
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened) creates a smooth base for an incredibly creamy frosting
  • 2 cups powdered sugar sweetens the frosting to perfection, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • floured surface
  • Baking dish
  • whisk
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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).
  6. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for approximately twenty-five minutes until golden brown.
  7. While the cinnamon rolls cool slightly, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
  8. Drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg

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.

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