Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in something special, and these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are just the treat to make the day extra sweet. Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, their vibrant red color making them even more festive. Topped with a luscious cream cheese icing and heart-shaped sprinkles, these rolls are a delicious way to show your love and make breakfast (or dessert) unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tbsp red food coloring
1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
Garnish:
Heart-shaped sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
Add melted butter, eggs, red food coloring, and the activated yeast mixture.
Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls
Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle (about 14×18 inches).
Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
Roll the dough tightly from the long side, then cut into 12 even rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cover and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
4. Bake the Rolls
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before frosting.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Spread the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls.
Sprinkle with heart-shaped decorations for a festive touch.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: Approx. 2.5 – 3 hours
Baking Pro Tips
Use room-temperature ingredients for a softer, more pliable dough.
Knead the dough well to develop gluten and ensure a fluffy texture.
Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on the rolls to avoid drying them out.
Let the rolls cool slightly before adding the icing so it doesn’t completely melt off.
Enhance the red color by using gel food coloring instead of liquid.
These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to celebrate love with a homemade treat that looks just as amazing as it tastes. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re guaranteed to impress. Share them with your loved ones and make your Valentine’s Day extra sweet!