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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Red velvet cinnamon rolls are a decadent twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring a vibrant red hue, a soft and fluffy texture, and a rich cinnamon-sugar filling. Topped with a tangy cream cheese icing, these rolls are perfect for special occasions, holidays, or any time you want to indulge in a sweet, comforting treat.


Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred)

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 12 tbsp milk (optional, to thin the icing)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
    • Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Stir until a dough forms.
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
  • Make the Filling:

    • In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and granulated sugar until well combined.
  • Assemble the Rolls:

    • Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
    • Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
    • Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
    • Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Cover with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes.
  • Bake the Rolls:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  • Make the Cream Cheese Icing:

    • While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add milk if necessary for a thinner consistency.
  • Finish the Rolls:

    • Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes before spreading the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked (unfrosted) rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw and warm before icing.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American