Description of this recipe
These Red Velvet Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the rich flavor of red velvet cake with the warm, comforting essence of cinnamon rolls. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch on Valentine’s Day, these rolls are not only visually stunning with their vibrant color but also incredibly delicious, featuring a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling and a luscious cream cheese glaze.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe because it brings together the best of both worlds: the indulgence of red velvet cake and the irresistible pull-apart goodness of cinnamon rolls. The soft, fluffy texture, combined with the sweet and spicy filling, creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, the festive heart sprinkles add a charming touch, making these rolls perfect for celebrating love.
Introduction
Valentine’s Day is a time for sweet gestures, and what better way to show your affection than with a batch of homemade Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls? These rolls are not only a feast for the eyes with their rich crimson hue but also a treat for the taste buds with their decadent flavors. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet brown sugar, and the tangy cream cheese glaze creates a comforting yet luxurious experience that is perfect for sharing with someone special. Whether you’re surprising your partner, friends, or family, these cinnamon rolls will undoubtedly make the day extra memorable.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring (or enough to achieve desired color)
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- Heart sprinkles for decoration
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Allow this mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add the melted butter, room temperature eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough begins to form.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial as it develops the gluten, giving the rolls their fluffy texture. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter, packed brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well blended. This sweet mixture will create a delightful swirl in the cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle measuring about 15×9 inches. Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the rolled-out dough, ensuring that it reaches the edges. Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts. Place the cut rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cover them, and let them rise again for another 30-45 minutes until they have doubled in size.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. After baking, allow them to cool slightly in the pan.
Make the Glaze:
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Adjust the consistency by adding milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired thickness.
Glaze and Decorate:
Spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. For a festive touch, sprinkle heart-shaped sprinkles on top. Serve these delightful rolls immediately and enjoy the smiles they bring!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these rolls warm with a side of fresh fruit or a steaming cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great centerpiece for a Valentine’s Day brunch spread alongside other sweet treats.
Tips:
- Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly; temperatures around 110°F (43°C) are ideal.
- Roll the dough tightly to achieve well-defined swirls in the rolls.
- Use dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squishing them.
- Let the rolls cool slightly before applying the glaze to prevent it from melting too much.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some red velvet cake crumbs on top of the glaze.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per roll
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are an experience. The combination of flavors, textures, and colors makes them an ideal choice for celebrating love and affection. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast surprise or a sweet afternoon snack, these rolls are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these irresistible cinnamon rolls this Valentine’s Day!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out. - What can I substitute for red food coloring?
If you prefer not to use food coloring, you can use beet juice for a natural alternative. However, this may alter the flavor slightly. - How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness. - Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls after cutting them. Just place them in the freezer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking. - What can I use instead of cream cheese in the glaze?
If you want a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based cream cheese or simply make a powdered sugar glaze with milk and vanilla extract.
