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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

A festive twist on classic cinnamon rolls, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls feature a rich flavor blend and a creamy frosting, making them the perfect Christmas morning treat.
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Prep Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup milk, warmed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for thinning)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and cocoa powder.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until they form a smooth dough.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is elastic and smooth.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Rolling and Filling
  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 16×24 inches.
  2. Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
  4. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Cutting and Second Rise
  1. Starting at the longer end, roll the dough tightly into a log.
  2. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
  3. Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until they’ve puffed up.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake rolls for approximately 20-25 minutes until they are lightly golden.
Frosting
  1. While the rolls are baking, beat cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined. If necessary, add milk for a thinner consistency.
Serving
  1. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly, then generously spread the frosting on top.
  2. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Notes

Make it Ahead: These rolls can be prepared the night before! Simply prepare the dough and fill the rolls, then refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking.
Experiment with Flavors: Add a dash of almond extract to the frosting for extra depth, or fold in chocolate chips for an added surprise.
Presentation Matters: Consider garnishing with crushed pecans or a sprinkle of festive holiday sprinkles to elevate your presentation.