Introduction
These Red Velvet Valentine’s Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat to celebrate love and indulgence! Swirling rich cocoa powder and velvety red food coloring into a soft, pillowy dough, these cinnamon rolls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each bite offers a heavenly burst of sweetness that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re celebrating with a special someone or treating yourself, these delightful rolls are sure to warm your heart!
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup milk, heated to 110°F
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
For the filling:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the warmed milk, melted unsalted butter, egg, cocoa powder, and red food coloring until fully combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough starts to form.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough. If desired, add the mini chocolate chips for an extra treat.
- Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the sliced rolls with plastic wrap and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then add milk as needed to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven and have cooled slightly, spread the delicious cream cheese frosting generously on top.
Notes or Tips
- For a fun, festive touch, consider adding sprinkles on top of the frosting!
- These cinnamon rolls can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dough and filling, then refrigerate overnight. Just allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
- Feel free to customize the filling by incorporating nuts or switching up the type of chocolate!
Cooking Techniques
Understanding proper dough kneading and rising techniques is essential to achieving soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls. Remember, kneading helps develop the gluten in the flour, giving the rolls a lovely structure and chew. Allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment creates the perfect conditions for yeast to work its magic, resulting in those wonderfully airy rolls.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just prepare them up to the second rise, then cover tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to bake them, let them thaw and rise before popping them in the oven.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Always check that your yeast is fresh by proofing it in warm water with a bit of sugar before using it. If it foams, it’s ready to go!
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Valentine’s Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a treat—their rich colors and flavors evoke warmth and joy, perfect for any occasion. Treat yourself and your loved ones with the sweet comfort of these luscious rolls, and watch as each bite brings smiles and happy hearts. Enjoy the process, and savor the delightful results!