Go Back
A pan of warm red velvet cinnamon rolls topped with thick white cream cheese frosting

Red Velvet Valentine's Day Cinnamon Rolls

Prep Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all -purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2.25 tsp)
  • 1 teaspoon sal t
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg , room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring gel
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  • Whisk in the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and red food coloring until well combined.
  • Gradually add the remaining flour and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 90 minutes or until doubled in size.
  • On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle.
  • Spread 1/2 cup softened butter over the dough, leaving a small margin at the edges.
  • Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
  • Roll the dough tightly starting from the long edge and cut into 12 equal slices using a serrated knife or dental floss.
  • Place rolls into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, cover, and allow to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
  • While baking, beat the cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Remove rolls from the oven and spread the cream cheese frosting over them while still warm.