Step 1

In a small sauce pot set over low heat, combine the milk and butter and cook until the butter has melted and the mixture is warmed to just below 110°F.

Step 2

Stir in 1 tablespoon sugar and the yeast then set the mixture aside for 5 minutes.

Step 3

In a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the flour, cocoa powder, salt and remaining 1/2 cup sugar.

Step 4

Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the stand mixer and beat for 2 minutes.

Step 5

Add red food coloring until the dough reaches your desired color then continue beating for 6 minutes until the dough is combined. (It will be tacky. If it's too tacky, or you're in a humid environment, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.)

Step 6

Grease a large bowl with cooking spray. Transfer the dough into the bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Store the dough in a warm, dark place until it doubles in size, about 2 hours.

Step 7

Grease a 13x9-inch baking pan with cooking spray.

Step 8

Lightly flour your work surface then roll the dough into a rectangle that's 1/4-inch thick and measures about 12x18 inches.

Step 9

Brush the dough all over with the melted butter.

Step 10

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, sugar and cinnamon.

Step 11

Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly atop the butter.

Step 12

Beginning at the long end, tightly roll the dough up into a log. Slice off the ends then slice the log into 12 rolls.

Step 13

Arrange the rolls in the greased baking dish then cover them with plastic wrap. Set the rolls aside in a warm, dark place until they double in size, about 30 minutes.

Step 14

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 15

Uncover the rolls and bake them for 18 to 22 minutes or until they are no longer doughy. Set the rolls aside to cool.

Step 16

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the cream cheese and butter.

Step 17

Add the vanilla extract, buttermilk, salt and confectioners' sugar and beat until combined.

Step 18

Spread the frosting atop the cinnamon rolls and serve.

Step 19

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