Introduction
If you’re looking to spread a little love this Valentine’s Day, then these delightful Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are just the treat you need! Soft, fluffy, and bursting with rich flavors, these rolls are adorned with a gorgeous crimson hue that perfectly embodies the spirit of the season. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each bite is a delicious blend of sweetness that will warm hearts and satisfy cravings. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy morning or surprising a loved one, these cinnamon rolls are sure to make your day extra special.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
- 1 cup cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- Add the melted butter, large egg, cocoa powder, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Whisk until everything is well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour and salt into the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Set it in a warm, draft-free spot to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle, taking care to keep the edges even.
- Spread the softened butter generously over the surface of the dough.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle it evenly over the buttered dough for a sweet burst of flavor.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each. Cover the dish with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the rolls are delightfully golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with cream cheese frosting, letting it melt gently into every crevice.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of love, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips into the cinnamon filling before rolling it up! You can also add a dash of vanilla extract to your cream cheese frosting for an additional flavor boost. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls is all about the dough! Make sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the perfect texture. Don’t rush the rising steps—the yeast needs time to work its magic, creating those fluffy layers. If your kitchen is a bit chilly, you can create a warm environment by turning your oven on for a minute, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then cover it and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
What if I don’t have red food coloring?
You can substitute it with beet juice for a natural alternative, although it may alter the taste slightly. The vibrant color is part of the fun, though!
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a feast for the eyes and a labor of love to prepare. Perfect for any special occasion or simply to indulge in a sweet moment, these rolls will surely bring smiles in every bite. So gather your loved ones, bake away, and enjoy a delightful experience that embodies the sweetness of Valentine’s Day!