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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Fluffy red velvet cinnamon rolls swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for Valentine’s Day brunch or special occasions.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Bakery
Calories: 330
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ¾ cup warm milk 110°F / 43°C
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2–3 tbsp red food coloring or until desired hue
Cinnamon Filling
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tbsp milk optional, for desired consistency

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and red food coloring.
  3. Gradually add flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then pour in the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic, 5–7 minutes.
  4. Cover dough and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
  5. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread softened butter over dough surface, then sprinkle filling evenly.
  6. Roll dough into a rectangle and then into a log. Slice into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
  7. Cover and let rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls 20–25 minutes until lightly golden.
  9. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mix until creamy. Add milk if needed.
  10. Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

Rolls can be made a day ahead; refrigerate overnight and bake fresh. Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra indulgence.