Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Experience the joy of these rich, gooey cinnamon rolls topped with a creamy icing, perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4-5 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and level for accuracy!
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast Helps your rolls rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
- 3/4 cup water Needed for the yeast to activate.
- 1/2 cup whole milk Adds richness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into 4 slices) Makes the rolls tender.
- 1 large egg Binds everything together.
For the Filling
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (very soft) Creates layers of flavor.
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar Brings caramel-like flavor.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon The star of the show!
For the Icing
- 4 oz full-fat block cream cheese (room temperature) Provides velvety creaminess.
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature) More buttery goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar Sweetens up your icing.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Ties the flavors together.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk and set aside.
- Heat water, milk, and sliced butter in the microwave until warm, being careful not to scald it.
- Whisk the egg into the warm mixture.
- Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until a thick and sticky dough forms.
- Gradually add the last cup of flour until the dough starts forming a ball.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and slightly tacky, about 5 minutes.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes.
- Roll the dough into a 14x10 inch rectangle.
- Spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
- Trim the ends and slice the log into 12 even rolls.
- Arrange the rolls cut side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Baking
- Cover rolls and let them rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, mix icing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- After baking, let rolls cool for a few minutes, then generously ice them.
Notes
These rolls can be made ahead and stored. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for 2-3 days, and reheat in the microwave.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 14g
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