R is for: Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls {Heart Shaped for V-Day!}

Do you have someone special on Valentine’s Day this year? Why not make them a special breakfast to show your love and adoration?

This is the first of three Valentine’s Day-related breakfast posts. However, as it happened chronologically, this was actually the second I made on that particular day, so the photos aren’t quite up to par…but hey, don’t they say “it’s the thought that counts?”

I thought so too. And there’s definitely a lot of thought and love behind these heartfelt cinnamon rolls.

This recipe is originally from my Aunt Candy. I must confess, the recipe made her way is much better…mostly because it contains more butter and brown sugar. But this way allows for the heart-shaped variation, which was too adorable to pass up.

First, make the dough. To do this, dissolve yeast and 1/2 teaspoon of sugar in a half cup of warm water and allow to stand for 5-10 minutes. In a small bowl, stir together the 1/4 cup sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, butter and milk and then add the yeast mixture. Combine both the wet and dry mixtures. Add enough flour (2-3 cups) to make a soft, kneadable dough. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead 5-10 minutes until no longer sticky and it springs back when poked.

Place in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Allow dough to rise in warm place one hour or until doubled. Punch down and let rise 1/2 hour more, or until doubled. Combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Roll dough into large rectangle. Spread with butter mixture. 

Roll up starting with the long side and stopping halfway. Roll the other side to form a double roll (this will form the top of the heart). Use thread to cut into 1″ rolls. Pull/pinch the bottom of the roll to form the “heart” shape. Place on prepared pan. (I decided to add a little “twist” at the bottom as well). Let rise 30 minutes. Bake for 15-20 minutes until light golden brown.

While rolls are baking, mix together the ingredients for the glaze. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately. Happy Valentine’s Day!