Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
A delightful fusion of classic cinnamon rolls and the rich flavors of red velvet cake. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp milk
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Gradually add the remaining 1½ cups of flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
- Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Assemble the Rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle.
- Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar filling over the rolled-out dough.
- If using, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over the filling.
- Starting from the longer edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
Second Rise:
- Arrange the slices in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Frost and Serve:
- Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
- Serve and enjoy!