Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to 110-115°F (43-46°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 ¼ cups (530g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2-3 cups (240-360g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or cream, to thin (if needed)
Instructions:
- Combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar in a mixing bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface (or in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12x18 inches). Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
- Tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 22-28 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until light and fluffy. Add milk/cream to thin if needed.
- Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before frosting generously. Serve warm and enjoy!