Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for thinning the frosting)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and eggs.
- Add the yeast mixture to the butter and eggs, and whisk until combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
3. Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches in size.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Cover the baking dish with a damp cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
- If the frosting is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Frost and Serve:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.
- Serve the cinnamon rolls warm, and enjoy!
These cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat anytime. Enjoy their soft, fluffy texture and delicious cinnamon flavor!
