Description

Indulge in the cozy goodness of these one-of-a-kind red velvet flavored cinnamon rolls, perfect for any special occasion. This detailed recipe will guide you through creating these delightful treats from scratch.

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)

Instructions

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.

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.

Bake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown.

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.

Serve:

Spread the icing over the warm rolls before serving.

Additional Information:

Prep Time:
Roughly 2 hours including rising time

Calories:
Each roll contains approximately 380 calories.

Notes

Serving Tips:

Best Served Warm:
- Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven. The icing melts slightly over the warm rolls, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
Presentation:
- For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra icing. Serve on a decorative plate to make them look even more inviting.
Pairing Suggestions:
- These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. They also make a delightful addition to a brunch spread.
Special Occasions:
- Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special gatherings, these cinnamon rolls add a festive touch to any celebration.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature:
- Store the cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps keep them soft and fresh.
Refrigeration:
- For longer storage, place the rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm them up.
Freezing:
- These rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or oven before serving.
Reheating:
- When reheating in the oven, place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Icing Storage:
- If you have extra icing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Re-whip before using to restore its creamy texture.

Proper serving and storage ensure that your Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls remain delicious and fresh, whether you’re enjoying them right away or saving some for later. Warm, gooey, and perfectly spiced, these rolls are a treat that can be savored over several days, making them a versatile and delightful addition to your baking repertoire.