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Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls bursting with warm, sweet spice and a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these cinnamon rolls combine fluffy dough and a luscious cream cheese glaze for an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and sure to please.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus 1 tsp for yeast activation)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Glaze Ingredients (Optional)

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 23 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk to about 110°F. Dissolve the active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar in the warm milk and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy. In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining granulated sugar, salt, and eggs. Gradually add the milk-yeast mixture and softened butter, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  2. Roll Out and Fill: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 15×9-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture evenly over the butter, covering every corner for a rich filling.
  3. Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled dough into 12 even slices. Arrange the slices cut-side up in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each for the second rise.
  4. Second Rise: Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let the rolls rise until puffy, about 30 to 45 minutes. This step ensures tender, fluffy swirls inside each roll.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Start checking at around 20 minutes to prevent overbaking.
  6. Add the Icing: While the rolls cool slightly, prepare the glaze by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over warm rolls to enhance their gooey charm.

Notes

  • Keep milk warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Knead dough thoroughly for at least 8 minutes to develop gluten for a soft, airy texture.
  • Do not skip the second rise to ensure fluffy rolls.
  • Spread the butter and cinnamon sugar filling evenly to prevent dry spots.
  • Use fresh, active yeast for best rise and flavor.
  • Adjust sugar levels in dough and glaze to taste.

Nutrition

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