Description
Fluffy, rich red velvet cinnamon rolls swirled with brown sugar and cinnamon, baked to perfection, and topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze that melts right into every bite. These are the ultimate cozy morning treat or brunch showstopper!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
• 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
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1–2 tbsp red food coloring (or 1 tbsp beet powder for natural option)
For the Filling:
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dough:
• In a large bowl, mix 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
• In another bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and food coloring.
• Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until smooth. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft, sticky dough forms.
• Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2️⃣ Make the Filling:
• Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
3️⃣ Roll, Fill & Slice:
• On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
• Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough.
• Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top (if using).
• Roll the dough up tightly from the long side. Slice into 12 even rolls.
• Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
4️⃣ Bake:
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until tops are set and slightly golden.
• Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before frosting.
5️⃣ Make the Frosting:
• Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla and milk until the frosting reaches desired consistency.
• Spread generously over warm rolls.
Notes
Red Food Coloring Alternatives:
Want a natural version? Swap traditional food coloring with beet powder, raspberry juice, or pomegranate concentrate. You’ll still get that rich red hue without artificial dyes.
Make Ahead Tip:
You can prep the rolls the night before. After shaping, cover and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature and rise for 45 minutes before baking in the morning.
Dough Rising Tip:
Place your dough in a slightly warm (not hot) oven or inside your microwave with the light on to help it rise faster in cooler kitchens.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Option:
Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese to enjoy a fully plant-based version of these indulgent rolls.
Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
Mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or a swirl of Nutella can be added to the filling for a richer twist.
Storing Leftovers:
Keep frosted rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–30 seconds for soft, gooey results.
Freezing Instructions:
Freeze unfrosted rolls after baking. Wrap individually and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm before frosting.
Frosting Tip:
For a lighter glaze, thin the frosting with milk. For a thicker spread, reduce the milk or add more powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: <0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
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