Introduction
Nothing says love quite like the delightful aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls drifting through your home, especially when they’re dressed up in a vibrant red velvet hue! These Red Velvet Valentines Cinnamon Rolls are not only a feast for the eyes, but they also offer a warm, pillowy texture with a rich flavor that will surely win over hearts. Perfect for a cozy breakfast in bed or a sweet treat to share with loved ones, these rolls are sure to become a cherished addition to your Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the warm milk and granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture, stirring until the mixture is combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 12×18 inches.
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the cream cheese layer.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log shape, pinching the seams to seal.
- Slice the log into 12 rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by mixing together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the luscious frosting over the top and serve warm.
Notes or Tips
For a deeper crimson shade, feel free to add a touch more red food coloring to the dough. If you want to enjoy these rolls even more, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped strawberries to the filling!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is an essential step to develop the gluten, which gives your rolls that wonderful bread-like texture. Make sure not to rush the rising time, as letting the dough rise fully will lead to a light and airy result. If your kitchen is a bit chilly, place the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on for a cozy environment.
FAQ
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Absolutely! After kneading, cover the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, let it warm up for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Valentines Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are an experience filled with warmth, love, and deliciousness. Whether for a special occasion or just to bring a smile to someone’s face, these rolls are sure to create sweet memories. Enjoy every bite alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea, and let the smiles unfold!