Ingredients:
Dough:
• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons red food coloring (adjust to your preference)
Filling:
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Icing:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
• In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast until dissolved.
• Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, vinegar, cocoa powder, 2 cups flour, salt, and red food coloring. Stir until smooth.
• Gradually add remaining flour until you get a soft dough. Knead for about 5-10 minutes until elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, roughly 1 hour.
2. Shape the Rolls:
• Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 16×21-inch rectangle.
• Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
• Roll up the dough tightly and slice into 12 rolls.
• Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise until almost doubled, about 30 minutes.
3. Bake:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown.
4. Prepare the Icing:
• In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
• Add milk gradually until you reach a pourable consistency.
5. Serve:
• Spread the icing over the warm rolls before serving.
Prep Time:
• Roughly 2 hours including rising time
Calories:
• Each roll contains approximately 380 calories.
Tips:
• Adjust the amount of food coloring for a deeper red hue, depending on the intensity of the brand.
• Allow the rolls to cool slightly before icing to prevent it from melting completely into the rolls.
Key Takeaway: These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls combine the luxurious taste of red velvet cake with the comforting goodness of cinnamon rolls, topped off with a creamy icing for an irresistible treat.