For the dough:
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
1 egg yolk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons red food coloring
For the filling:
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup butter, softened
For the cream cheese frosting:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
1. In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, melted butter, egg yolk, red food coloring, and mix well.
3. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until dough comes together, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the top.
6. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
7. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, seal the seam, and cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place rolls cut side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 more minutes.
9. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until just kissed with brown on top.
10. While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla for frosting.
11. Spread frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Variations & Tips
For an extra touch, you can include chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for a delightful crunch. If you’re a chocolate lover, try adding mini chocolate chips on top of the rolls before baking, or drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted rolls for a decadent finish.
