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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Perfection

  • Total Time: 180 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x

Description

Decadent red velvet cinnamon rolls with a rich cream cheese frosting. A delightful twist on a classic treat!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup milk, warmed to 110-115°F
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel is preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
  2. Warm the milk to 110-115°F.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and cocoa powder.
  4. Pour the warm milk and the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to combine the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead the dough in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes on medium speed.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature.
  8. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  9. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
  10. Spread the prepared filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges.
  11. Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it tightly.
  12. Use a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices.
  13. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other.
  14. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  15. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a roll; it should come out clean.
  16. Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting.
  17. Ensure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature.
  18. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  19. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
  20. Add the milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  21. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.
  22. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make sure the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
  • The milk temperature is crucial for activating the yeast. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  • The cocoa powder helps to enhance the red velvet flavor and adds a subtle chocolate note.
  • The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
  • The rising time will depend on the temperature of your kitchen. A warm environment will help the dough rise faster.
  • The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the red velvet flavor.
  • Ensure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth and lump-free frosting.
  • They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

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Find it online: https://recipes2make.com/red-velvet-cinnamon-rolls/