Red Velvet Cream Cheese Rolls (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Dough

01 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
04 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 cup whole milk, warmed
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
08 - 1 large egg
09 - 2 tablespoons red food coloring
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ For the Filling

11 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
12 - 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
13 - 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
14 - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

→ For the Cream Cheese Frosting

15 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
16 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
17 - 4 cups powdered sugar
18 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
19 - 2-4 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, food coloring, vanilla, and egg. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring well. Add remaining flour 1/2 cup at a time until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
02 - Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic (or 6-8 minutes in a stand mixer). Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-1 1/2 hours until doubled.
03 - While dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until it forms a thick paste. Have chocolate chips ready if using.
04 - Punch down risen dough and roll out to a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread cinnamon filling evenly, leaving a small border. Sprinkle with chocolate chips if using. Roll tightly from long side, pinch to seal, then slice into 12 equal pieces.
05 - Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise another 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to A350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden. Don't overbake.
07 - Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, then adjust consistency with milk.
08 - Let rolls cool slightly, then spread with cream cheese frosting. Serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Use gel food coloring for more vibrant red color without affecting texture
02 - For festive occasions, sprinkle with crushed candy canes or red sugar crystals
03 - Perfect for Christmas morning, Valentine's Day, or special brunches