Description
These Red Velvet Valentine’s Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and loaded with a rich red velvet flavor, filled with cinnamon-sugar, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day or any occasion that calls for a little extra love and sweetness.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough:
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed (110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp (7g) active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1–2 tsp red food coloring (gel recommended)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and red food coloring. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost and Serve:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a stronger red color, adjust the amount of red food coloring to your liking. Gel food coloring works best.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
- Add festive Valentine’s sprinkles or a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top for an extra-special touch.