Ingredients

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup whole milk, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

2 tablespoons red food coloring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)

4 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)

2 to 4 tablespoons milk (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix the warmed milk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and knead until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Step 5: While the dough is rising, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the filling.

Step 6: Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Step 7: Spread the cinnamon sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the mini chocolate chips on top.

Step 8: Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other and slice into rolls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick.

Step 9: Place the slices in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again until puffy, about 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 10: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until soft and cooked through.

Step 11: While the rolls bake, beat the cream cheese and softened butter in a bowl until smooth.

Step 12: Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk gradually to create a creamy frosting, adjusting milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 13: Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately for the best experience.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality red food coloring or natural alternatives like beet juice for a vibrant color.

For a nutty twist, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling along with the chocolate chips.

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar in the filling slightly.

Make these rolls a day ahead and refrigerate after shaping; bake fresh in the morning for convenience.

FAQs

Can I use regular cinnamon rolls dough instead of making my own?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought cinnamon roll dough and add red food coloring to create the red velvet theme, but making the dough from scratch offers the best flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of red food coloring?

If you prefer a natural option, beet juice or powder works well to achieve a red hue, though the color may be less intense. Alternatively, skip the coloring if desired.