Red Velvet Valentine’s Cinnamon Rolls

Red velvet Valentine’s cinnamon rolls are a festive twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a vibrant red velvet dough, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese glaze. Perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day or treating your loved ones to a sweet and special breakfast, these rolls are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Fun: The red velvet color makes these rolls perfect for Valentine’s Day.
• Soft and Fluffy: The tender dough and gooey filling create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Indulgent Glaze: Cream cheese frosting adds the perfect finishing touch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the rolls the night before for an easy morning bake.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Granulated sugar
• Active dry yeast
• Salt
• Warm milk
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Egg
• Red food coloring

For the Filling:

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk (as needed for consistency)

Directions

this recipe

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk (110°F) with a teaspoon of sugar and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Assemble the Rolls:

5. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches) on a floured surface.
6. Spread the Filling: Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
7. Roll and Cut: Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the longer side. Cut into 9-12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
8. Second Rise: Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes.

Bake the Rolls:

9. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:

11. Mix the Glaze: Beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Add milk as needed to achieve a pourable consistency.

Glaze and Serve:

12. Top the Rolls: Spread or drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 9-12 rolls.
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 2 hours
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2.5-3 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Filling: Add mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon-sugar filling for extra indulgence.
• Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking.
• Vegan Version: Substitute dairy-free butter, milk, and cream cheese.
• Heart-Shaped Rolls: After cutting the rolls, gently pinch one end of each roll to form a heart shape before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after the second rise. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. Alternatively, freeze baked rolls and reheat before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out.

2. What if I don’t have red food coloring?

You can skip it or use beetroot powder for a natural red hue.

3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, use the same amount and skip the step of activating it in warm milk. Add it directly to the dry ingredients.

4. How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?

Cover the rolls with foil during baking if they begin to brown too quickly.

5. Can I use cream cheese frosting instead of a glaze?

Yes, make a thicker cream cheese frosting by reducing the milk or cream in the recipe.

6. How do I cut the rolls evenly?

Use dental floss or a sharp, serrated knife to slice the log cleanly.

7. Can I use a stand mixer?

Absolutely! Use the dough hook attachment for mixing and kneading the dough.

8. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The tops should be golden brown, and the center rolls should be puffed and set.

9. Can I add other flavors to the glaze?

Yes, try adding a splash of almond extract or a hint of cinnamon for extra flavor.

10. Can I make mini rolls?

Yes, roll the dough thinner and cut smaller pieces to create bite-sized cinnamon rolls.

Conclusion

Red velvet Valentine’s cinnamon rolls are the ultimate combination of festive color, decadent flavor, and soft, gooey texture. With their vibrant appearance and irresistible taste, they’re sure to become a favorite for special occasions or anytime you want to add a touch of sweetness to your day. Try this recipe and enjoy a batch of these delightful rolls with your loved ones!

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