Name: Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (110°F).; 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast.; ½ cup granulated sugar.; ¼ cup melted unsalted butter.; 2 large eggs.; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.; 4 cups all-purpose flour.; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder.; 1 teaspoon salt.; 2 tablespoons red food coloring.; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened).; 1 cup brown sugar.; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon.; 4 ounces cream cheese (softened).; ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened).; 2 cups powdered sugar.; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.; 2 tablespoons milk.

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence, combining the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls. The dough is enriched with cocoa powder and bright red food coloring, giving it that signature red velvet appearance. After the dough rises, it's rolled out and spread with a generous cinnamon-sugar filling before being baked to golden perfection. Once out of the oven, the rolls are slathered with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting that melts into every swirl. Perfect for a special breakfast or dessert, these rolls are a showstopper.

Experience the ultimate in breakfast decadence with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls. These rolls take the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet and combine it with the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls, making them a perfect treat for any special occasion.

INGREDIENTS

Warm milk: 1 cup (110°F), activates the yeast for a fluffy dough
Active dry yeast: 2¼ teaspoons, helps the dough rise
Granulated sugar: ½ cup, adds sweetness to the dough
Melted unsalted butter: ¼ cup, adds richness and flavor to the dough
Large eggs: 2, for structure and richness
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavor
All-purpose flour: 4 cups, forms the base of the dough
Cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons, for that classic red velvet taste
Salt: 1 teaspoon, balances the sweetness
Red food coloring: 2 tablespoons, gives the rolls their signature red hue
Softened unsalted butter: ½ cup, used in the cinnamon filling
Brown sugar: 1 cup, adds sweetness and moisture to the filling
Ground cinnamon: 2 tablespoons, the star of the filling
Cream cheese: 4 ounces (softened), the base of the frosting
Softened unsalted butter: ¼ cup, adds creaminess to the frosting
Powdered sugar: 2 cups, sweetens the frosting
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for flavor in the frosting
Milk: 2 tablespoons, to thin out the frosting

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2:: Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
Step 3:: In another bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 4:: Add red food coloring and knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 5:: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 6:: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.
Step 7:: Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 16x12 inch rectangle.
Step 8:: Spread cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Step 9:: Roll the dough tightly from the longer side into a log. Cut into 12 even slices.
Step 10:: Place rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 11:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 12:: Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until smooth and spreadable.
Step 13:: Let rolls cool for a few minutes before spreading cream cheese frosting over them.
Step 14:: Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle rolls with melted white chocolate before serving.
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Reheat rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

Helpful Notes

For a more intense red color, add a few more drops of food coloring to the dough.
Experiment with different frosting flavors, like adding a hint of lemon zest for a fresh twist.
If you're short on time, the dough can be made the night before and refrigerated until ready to use.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Paul Hollywood advises ensuring your dough is well-kneaded for a perfect rise and soft texture.
Mary Berry suggests brushing the rolls with a little melted butter before baking for a golden, tender crust.