Description
These soft and pillowy red velvet cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic. With the rich flavor of cinnamon, the decadent cream cheese frosting, and a gorgeous red hue, these rolls make for the perfect indulgent breakfast or dessert. They’re melt-in-your-mouth good and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–4 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and the egg. Whisk until well blended.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or using the dough hook on a stand mixer.
- Slowly add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, let it knead for 6-8 minutes on low speed.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a thick paste. Set aside.
- If you’re using mini chocolate chips, keep them ready for sprinkling during assembly.
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Roll and Assemble:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the filling for an added layer of decadence.
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
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Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
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Make the Frosting:
- While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. Adjust the consistency with milk, one tablespoon at a time.
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Frost and Serve:
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before spreading the frosting generously over the top.
- Serve warm, and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite!
Notes
- You can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red hue without altering the dough’s texture.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes or red sugar crystals on top of the frosting during the holidays.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes (including rise time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American