Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (around 110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams) active dry yeast or instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream, to thin (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12x18 inches).
- Spread the softened butter mixture evenly over the dough.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 9-12 equal slices using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
- Place the cinnamon roll slices in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy. Add milk or cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before frosting. Serve warm and enjoy!