Fluffy Red Velvet Rolls

Stunning Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are an indulgent, eye-catching delight that works for special moments or whenever you're craving something sweet. The rolls feature a pillowy, bright red dough wrapped around a cinnamon-sugar blend and topped with creamy cream cheese icing. Their bold color makes them perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. Want extra sweetness? Throw in some mini chocolate chips. They're great for morning meals, fancy brunches, or after-dinner treats - the amazing flavor combo will wow everyone who tries them.

INGREDIENTS

• Active dry yeast: 1 packet (2¼ tsp), kickstarts the rising process
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, adds depth to the dough
• Red food coloring: 2 tbsp, creates that standout color
• Large egg: 1, helps everything stick together
• Unsalted butter (melted): ¼ cup, keeps the dough moist
• Whole milk (warmed): 1 cup, gives the dough richness
• Salt: ½ tsp, brings out all the flavors
• Baking powder: 1 tsp, helps the dough puff up more
• Granulated sugar: ¼ cup, adds sweetness to the dough
• All-purpose flour: 3½ cups, makes up the main dough structure
• Ground cinnamon: 2 tbsp, provides that warm filling flavor
• Brown sugar (packed): ¾ cup, sweetens the filling perfectly
• Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup, for spreading on the dough
• Mini chocolate chips (optional): ½ cup, for an extra sweet touch
• Milk: 2-4 tbsp, adjusts the frosting thickness
• Vanilla extract: 2 tsp, makes the frosting taste amazing
• Powdered sugar: 4 cups, creates sweet, smooth frosting
• Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup, makes the frosting creamy
• Cream cheese (softened): 8 oz, gives that tangy frosting flavor

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Combine 2 cups flour with sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt in a big bowl. In a separate bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla. Pour wet stuff into dry stuff and add remaining flour until you get a soft, workable dough.

Step 2:

Sprinkle flour on your counter and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes till it feels smooth and stretchy. Put it in an oiled bowl, cover it up, and let it sit somewhere warm for about an hour until it doubles up.

Step 3:

Stir together the soft butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create your filling mix.

Step 4:

Once the dough's puffed up, roll it out to a 12x18-inch rectangle. Smear your cinnamon mixture all over and scatter mini chocolate chips if you want them. Roll it into a log shape and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5:

Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased 9x13-inch pan. Cover them and let them rise another 30 minutes.

Step 6:

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until they look golden brown.

Step 7:

While they're cooking, make your frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together. Slowly mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to get the thickness you like.

Step 8:

Let the rolls cool a bit, then slather them with lots of frosting and dig in!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Keep any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Pop them in the microwave before eating.
• Want them even sweeter? Try drizzling some melted white chocolate over the frosted tops.

Helpful Notes

• Need a brighter red color? Just add a splash more food coloring to your dough mix.
• You can make the dough at night and let it rise in your fridge overnight for a quicker morning baking session.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Suggestion: Try mixing in a tablespoon of cocoa powder into your dough for that authentic red velvet taste.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

You bet. Just prep your dough the night before and stick it in the fridge to rise slowly. Makes morning baking super easy.

How do I keep the rolls soft after baking?

Put them in an airtight container and when you warm them up later, cover them with a damp paper towel so they don't dry out.

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Conclusion

Soft, fluffy Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls offer a creative twist on the usual cinnamon bun. With velvety red dough and a cinnamon-sugar swirl, these rolls bake to perfection and are topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Optional chocolate chips add extra sweetness if desired. These beauties are great to whip up for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or whenever you want a colorful and tasty indulgence. Their vibrant red hue and incredible flavors are sure to impress anyone who tries them!