Soft, fluffy, and bursting with a rich cocoa-cinnamon swirl, these Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are a showstopping upgrade to the beloved classic. The vibrant red hue, soft dough, and silky cream cheese glaze make this a perfect indulgence for brunch, holidays, Valentine’s Day—or just because you’re craving something extra special.

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🍞 Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

• 2¼ tsp instant dry yeast (1 standard packet)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)

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For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp cocoa powder (optional, enhances flavor depth)

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For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 2–3 tbsp milk (adjust to desired consistency)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and yeast.

2. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined.

3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.

4. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add extra flour if needed.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

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Step 2: Make the Filling

• In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional cocoa powder until it forms a smooth, spreadable paste.

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Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 16x12-inch rectangle.

2. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface, reaching all corners.

3. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, forming a log.

4. Slice the log into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

5. Place the rolls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.

6. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffed.

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Step 4: Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and lightly golden on top.

• Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before glazing.

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Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.

2. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, then mix until creamy and pourable.

3. Spread the glaze generously over the warm cinnamon rolls.

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🎀 Optional Garnish:

• Sprinkle with red velvet cake crumbs, a dusting of cocoa, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for extra flair.

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⏱ Time Overview:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Rising Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

• Bake Time: 22–25 minutes

• Total Time: ~2.5 hours

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🍽 Servings & Storage:

• Makes: 12 decadent rolls

• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.

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💬 Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls are more than just beautiful—they're rich, tender, and irresistibly indulgent. Whether you’re baking them for a festive brunch, Valentine’s Day breakfast-in-bed, or a weekend treat, they’re sure to impress both visually and flavor-wise.

Serve warm, and enjoy every gooey, cream-cheese-frosted bite! ❤️✨