Description
These soft, fluffy red velvet cinnamon rolls are perfect for Valentine’s Day! With a rich cocoa-infused dough, a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese glaze, they’re an indulgent treat for someone special—or just for yourself!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
3 1/4 cups (406g) all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring
For the Filling:
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and cocoa powder.
Mix Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and red food coloring.
Combine – Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Add the remaining flour a little at a time until the dough is soft but not overly sticky.
Knead & Rise – Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling – In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll & Fill – Roll the dough into a 14×9-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Roll & Cut – Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 9-12 rolls. Place in a greased 9-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Glaze – Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to create a pourable consistency.
Glaze & Serve – Drizzle warm rolls with cream cheese glaze and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside the filling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.