Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

There's something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These delightful pastries have earned their place as a cherished breakfast and dessert item, bringing joy to family gatherings, holiday brunches, and lazy Sunday mornings alike. Among the countless variations of cinnamon rolls, the addition of cream cheese icing transforms these sweet rolls into an indulgent treat that elevates the traditional recipe to new heights.

Indulge in the homemade delight of Heavenly Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls with this step-by-step guide. Experience the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked rolls that transform breakfast and dessert. Discover the joy of crafting fluffy dough filled with cinnamon and sugar, topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese icing. Perfect for family gatherings or lazy mornings, these rolls promise to elevate your baking game. Join in the fun and make these heavenly treats your new favorite!

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Ingredients

For the dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed (between 100°F to 110°F)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1/2 tsp salt

For the filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tbsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the cream cheese icing:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp milk (to reach desired consistency)

Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl to form a paste. If using, chop the nuts and mix them in.

Roll out the dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick (about 15x20 inches).

Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon filling across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Shape the rolls: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once rolled, pinch the seam to seal it. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter.

Second rise: Place the rolls in a greased baking pan (9x13 works well), cover, and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffed up.

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.

Bake the rolls: Once the rolls have risen, bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Prepare the cream cheese icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Ice and serve: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Generously drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into all the crevices. Serve warm and enjoy the heavenly flavors!

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls