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Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with a warm, spiced filling, topped with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any cozy occasion, these homemade cinnamon rolls fill your home with irresistible bakery aromas and deliver comforting sweetness in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast. Let it foam for about 5 minutes. Add 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 large eggs, and 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  2. Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar and 2 tbsp cinnamon in a small bowl. Melt 1/4 cup butter for brushing. This mixture will be spread over the rolled dough to create the sweet, gooey filling.
  3. Roll and Slice: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal-sized rolls and place them into a greased baking pan.
  4. Final Rise and Bake: Let the sliced rolls rise for an additional 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened butter, 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the sweetness to taste.
  6. Frost the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls right after they come out of the oven. Let the frosting set slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use warm milk (not hot) to avoid killing the yeast and ensure a good rise.
  • Do not over-knead the dough; stop kneading once it’s soft and elastic.
  • Allow rolls to cool for a few minutes before frosting to prevent the frosting melting into a glaze.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
  • Cover dough with a towel or plastic wrap during rising to keep it moist and soft.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, cream cheese frosting, breakfast, brunch, sweet rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls, baked treats