Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Proof the Yeast:
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In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the milk until it's lukewarm, around 110°F (43°C).
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Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
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Add the yeast mixture and the egg to the bowl. Mix well.
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Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until the dough comes together.
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Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour if needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
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Punch down the risen dough to release the air.
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Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Prepare the Filling:
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Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
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In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
5. Roll and Cut:
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Starting from one of the longer edges, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
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Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the rolled log into individual cinnamon rolls, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
6. Arrange and Rise:
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Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between them.
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Cover the pan with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the cinnamon rolls rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the last 15 minutes of the rising time.
8. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and well combined.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
10. Frost and Serve:
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Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
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Serve the Homemade Cinnamon Rolls while they're still warm and gooey.
These Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that's sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The combination of fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy cream cheese frosting makes them irresistible. Enjoy your baking experience!