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Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls: Festive Sweetness for the Holidays

Delight in these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls, a festive treat perfect for the holidays.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 325

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Bread flour can be used for a chewier texture.
  • 1 packet Instant Yeast Active dry yeast can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Warm Milk 110°F to activate yeast.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Can use alternative sweeteners.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter For dairy-free, use plant-based butter.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for yeast function.
  • 1 large Egg Use a flax egg for vegan versions.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Can omit for simpler cinnamon roll.
  • 1 tablespoon Red Food Coloring Gel food coloring recommended for deeper color.
  • 1/2 cup Buttermilk Can substitute with vinegar and milk mixture.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon Adjust based on preference.
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Use more or less milk to adjust consistency.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk Adjust for desired thickness.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor of the glaze.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Floured surface
  • baking dish
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Warm your milk to 110°F and pour it into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the instant yeast and granulated sugar, gently stirring to combine. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and red food coloring until evenly combined. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the melted butter, egg, and buttermilk. Mix until a soft dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the dough into a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and set aside in a warm area. Allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  4. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by combining brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until fully combined.
  5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 15x10 inches in size. Spread a generous layer of softened butter across the surface, then evenly sprinkle the prepared filling mixture.
  6. Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the cut rolls on their sides in a greased baking dish.
  7. Cover your baking dish with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-40 minutes.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls are rising. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  9. While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired glaze consistency.
  10. Allow the rolls to cool for about 5 minutes before drizzling the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 325kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Follow expert tips for perfect cinnamon rolls, including yeast activation and proper rising times.

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