Ingredients: For the Dough: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 1/2 tsp salt 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F) 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 1 large egg 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp vanilla extract Red food coloring (gel preferred, use to achieve desired color) For the Filling: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 tbsp ground cinnamon 1/4 cup granulated sugar For the Cream Cheese Icing: 4 oz cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 cup powdered sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, to thin the icing) Directions: Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, melted butter, egg, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Stir until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and granulated sugar until well combined. Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing: While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (if using) until smooth and creamy. Finish the Rolls: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Spread the cream cheese icing generously over the warm rolls before serving.
