Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls are rising. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- 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.
- Allow the rolls to cool for about 5 minutes before drizzling the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
Follow expert tips for perfect cinnamon rolls, including yeast activation and proper rising times.
