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Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Warm and fluffy cinnamon rolls topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese icing, perfect for family gatherings or cozy mornings.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Choose high-quality, unbleached flour for best results.
  • 1 packet active dry yeast About 2.25 tsp.
  • 1 cup warm whole milk About 110°F.
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
Icing
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp milk

Method
 

Activation
  1. Whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar in a bowl. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
Dough Preparation
  1. Add the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and flour to the yeast mixture. Combine and knead for around 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1.5 hours.
Rolling and Filling
  1. Roll the dough into a 16x12 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter on top, and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
Slicing
  1. Roll dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 evenly-sized rolls. Place in a greased baking dish.
Second Rise
  1. Cover with a towel and let rise for about 30 minutes until puffy.
Baking
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 22 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Icing Preparation
  1. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until light and fluffy.
Serving
  1. Drizzle or spread icing generously over warm rolls. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.