Cinnamon Rolls

INGREDIENTS:

Dough:

•  1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
•  2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
•  1/3 cup granulated sugar
•  1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
•  2 large eggs
•  4 cups all-purpose flour
•  1 teaspoon salt

Filling:

•  1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
•  1 cup brown sugar, packed
•  2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Icing:

•  4 ounces cream cheese, softened
•  1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
•  1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
•  1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
•  2 to 3 tablespoons milk

HOW TO MAKE:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• Warm the milk in the microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches about 110°F (45°C). It should feel warm but not hot to the touch.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk with the yeast and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• Add the melted butter, eggs, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
• Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 18x12 inches.
• Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

3. Roll and Cut the Dough:

• Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
• Cut the log into 12 even slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
• Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

5. Prepare the Icing:

• While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until combined.
• Gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the icing reaches your desired consistency.

6. Ice and Serve:

• Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes.
• Spread the icing generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the crevices.
• Serve the cinnamon rolls warm, and enjoy the delightful blend of fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy icing.

Tips:

• Ensure your milk is the right temperature; too hot can kill the yeast, too cold can slow down the rising process.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a thicker icing, reduce the amount of milk in the icing recipe.

These homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat. Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness with a cup of coffee or tea!