Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful twist on a classic favorite with these Red Velvet Valentines Cinnamon Rolls! Just imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked rolls filled with warm cinnamon and brown sugar, all beautifully tinted in that luscious red hue. These rolls are perfect for a special occasion or just to treat yourself and your loved ones. With a rich, creamy icing to top it all off, each bite is a burst of sweet, decadent flavor that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, egg, cocoa powder, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough begins to form.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, giving you a wonderful canvas for filling!
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional chopped pecans to make a delightful filling.
- Evenly spread the cinnamon mixture over the rolled-out dough, letting the sweet aromas fill your kitchen.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to create a log, then slice it into 1-inch pieces.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to keep those rolls from sticking!
- Place the sliced cinnamon rolls in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are golden and baked to perfection, let them cool for a few minutes before generously drizzling with the luscious cream cheese icing.
Notes or Tips
For an added touch of flavor, you can sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top of the icing. If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, consider preparing the dough and filling the night before and letting them rise in the fridge overnight. Just bake them in the morning for a fresh, warm treat!
Cooking Techniques
Rolling dough and cutting it evenly may take some practice, but don’t worry if they don’t look perfect—homemade treats are all about love! Ensure that your oven is fully preheated to achieve that lovely golden brown color, and keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Yes! You can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color or leave it out entirely for traditional cinnamon rolls.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the icing?
You can replace the cream cheese with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or even use buttercream icing for a different take.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Valentines Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a delicious treat; they are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, they will surely leave a smile on everyone’s face. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of baking these delightful rolls. Happy baking!