Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon red food coloring
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Directions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Mix well.
Add the yeast mixture to the sugar mixture and stir until combined.
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the butter.
Shape the Rolls:
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.
Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or two greased 8-inch round pans.
Bake the Rolls:
Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
Add milk as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
Frost the Rolls:
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before spreading with cream cheese frosting.
Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time) | Cook Time: 20-25 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including rising)
Kcal: Approximately 350 per roll | Servings: 12
