Directions
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Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, warm the milk to 110°F. Add the active dry yeast along with the granulated sugar. Stir gently, then allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. This tremendous step ensures that your rolls will rise beautifully.
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Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk mixture with the egg, vanilla extract, softened butter, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and a few drops of red food coloring. Gradually add the all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
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Knead: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-10 minutes until smooth. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, creating a tremendous texture that will yield fluffy rolls.
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First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. Patience during this step is key to achieving the perfect rise.
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Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
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Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top.
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Roll and Cut: Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Slice the log into equal rolls, placing them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.
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Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again in a warm environment until doubled, about 30 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
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Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, whip up the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
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Frost: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls for a heavenly finish.
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