Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (one standard packet)
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar (divided for dough)
• 0.33 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 4 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (very soft for filling)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened for frosting)
• 1.5 cup powdered sugar

Steps

1. 1

   In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, a tablespoon of the sugar, and the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

2. 2

   Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.

3. 3

   Stir in the flour and salt. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook to knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If by hand, knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes.

4. 4

   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. 5

   In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.

6. 6

   Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle (about 12x18 inches).

7. 7

   Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top, pressing it lightly into the butter.

8. 8

   Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log. Cut into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.

9. 9

   Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

10. 10

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown.

11. 11

    While the rolls bake, whisk together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar (adding a splash of milk or vanilla if desired) until smooth.

12. 12

    Spread the frosting over the warm rolls immediately after taking them out of the oven.

Notes

For extra gooey rolls, pour about 1/2 cup of heavy cream over the rolls after the second rise right before putting them in the oven.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• breakfast
• baking
• cinnamon rolls
• sweet
• homemade
• comfort food