Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to 110-115°F (43-46°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon for proofing
- ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons (16g) ground cinnamon
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk, or heavy cream
Instructions:
- Warm milk, add 1 teaspoon sugar and yeast. Let stand until foamy (5-10 minutes).
- Combine yeast mixture, remaining sugar, salt, melted butter, and eggs in a large bowl or stand mixer. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough (either by hand or with a dough hook) for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (1-1.5 hours).
- While the dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Punch down the risen dough. Roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
- Tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut into 12 even rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 22-28 minutes, or until golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center - it should come out with moist crumbs.
- While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Let the rolls cool slightly (5-10 minutes) before frosting generously. Serve warm and enjoy!