1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, 1/4 cup melted butter, egg, and food coloring (if using). Mix until well incorporated.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

5. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a 12×8-inch rectangle.

6. In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough.

7. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

8. Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking pan, spacing them apart slightly.

9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the centers are cooked through.

10. While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/2 cup softened butter until smooth and creamy.

11. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in a pinch of salt.

12. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.

13. Serve the Red Velvet Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy!