Description
Indulge in these incredibly soft and flavorful red velvet cinnamon rolls, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm buttermilk (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 1/2 – 5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1–2 teaspoons red gel food coloring (optional, adjust to desired shade)
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (optional, for thinning)
Instructions
- 1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm buttermilk, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2. Mix Dough: Add remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, cocoa, salt, and food coloring to yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing and kneading for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 3. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled.
- 4. Roll & Fill: Punch down dough, roll into an 18×12 inch rectangle. Spread with softened butter, then sprinkle with combined brown sugar, cocoa, and cinnamon. Roll tightly into a log and pinch seam.
- 5. Cut & Second Rise: Cut log into 12-15 rolls. Place in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- 6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- 7. Make Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Add milk/cream if needed for consistency.
- 8. Frost & Serve: Spread generously over warm (not hot) rolls. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins