Ingredients
For the dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm milk
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cinnamon filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the cream cheese icing:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Activate the yeast: Mix the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let sit for about 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
Make the dough: Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Gradually add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Make the filling: Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together.
Roll out the dough: Roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture on top.
Roll and cut: Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side. Cut into approximately 10–12 equal rolls.
Arrange: Place the rolls into a greased round or rectangular baking pan. Cover and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for approximately 22–28 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the icing: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until creamy.
Finish: Spread the cream cheese icing generously over the warm cinnamon rolls.
✨ Best served warm and fresh from the oven! 🤎
🍥 Soft & Gooey Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing
