Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction:

Cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are a classic, indulgent treat loved by many. Soft, fluffy dough filled with a rich, spiced cinnamon-sugar filling, all topped off with a sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting, these cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to start your day or enjoy as a sweet snack. They are often associated with cozy mornings, holidays, and family gatherings, making them an excellent choice for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something delicious.

Making homemade cinnamon rolls can be a bit of a labor of love, but the end result is worth every minute spent. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to create perfectly soft, golden cinnamon rolls with an irresistible gooey filling. The cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch, adding a creamy, slightly tangy sweetness that balances the rich, spiced rolls. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these cinnamon rolls will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Ingredients:

For the cinnamon rolls:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: This is the leavening agent that helps the dough rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C): Warm milk helps activate the yeast and helps the dough rise.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps activate the yeast.
• 1/2 cup butter (melted): Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 2 large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the dough.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (more for rolling): The main structure of the dough.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a deeper, molasses-like flavor to the cinnamon filling.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The key spice for the filling, giving the rolls their signature flavor.
• 1/4 cup butter (softened): For spreading on the dough before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz (227g) cream cheese (softened): Cream cheese provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the frosting.
• 1/4 cup butter (softened): Adds richness to the frosting.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it the right consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor and aroma to the frosting.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the cream cheese flavor.
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk: To thin out the frosting to your desired consistency.

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough: Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to use.
2. Mix the Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the bowl with the butter and eggs. Stir to combine. Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough or a dough hook if using a stand mixer.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, use the dough hook and knead for about 3-4 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the first rise.
5. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Mix until well combined and set aside.
6. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air bubbles. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 16 inches by 12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough.
7. Form the Rolls: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal the roll. Once the dough is rolled up, cut it into 12 even slices using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
8. Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and nearly doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
9. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. If you lightly tap on the rolls, they should sound hollow. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
10. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
11. Frost the Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. The frosting will melt slightly into the warm rolls, creating a creamy, decadent topping.
12. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cinnamon rolls warm with an extra drizzle of frosting on top, if desired. These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or oven before serving for a warm, comforting treat.

Tips and Variations:

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cinnamon rolls the night before. After cutting the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply let them rise for 30 minutes before baking.
• Adding Nuts: For added texture, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar mixture before rolling up the dough. The nuts will toast as the rolls bake, adding a delicious crunch.
• Vegan Version: To make vegan cinnamon rolls, substitute the butter with vegan butter, use plant-based milk, and swap the eggs for flax eggs. You can also use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
• Frosting Variations: If you prefer a different frosting, you can use a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk or make a maple glaze for a richer flavor.
• Spices: Experiment with adding different spices to the filling, such as nutmeg or cardamom, for a unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls.

Nutritional Benefits:

While cinnamon rolls are indulgent and best enjoyed in moderation, they do offer some nutritional benefits from the ingredients:

• Cinnamon: Cinnamon has been linked to several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, blood sugar regulation, and antioxidant effects. It can help lower blood sugar levels and improve heart health.
• Cream Cheese: While cream cheese is high in fat, it also provides calcium and protein. You can use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter frosting if preferred.
• Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and contains fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A and D, but it should be used in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.

Conclusion:

Cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The soft, fluffy dough, gooey cinnamon filling, and rich, tangy cream cheese frosting make these rolls irresistible. Though making them from scratch takes some time and patience, the result is well worth the effort. Whether you enjoy them as a weekend treat, a holiday breakfast, or a special dessert, homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are sure to become a favorite indulgence. Enjoy the delicious, melt-in-your-mouth goodness and share them with friends and family for a memorable experience!