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Best Cinnamon Rolls Ever

These soft, sweet cinnamon rolls are topped with rich cream cheese frosting and are perfect for weekend baking or family mornings.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110-115 degrees)
  • 2.5 tsps dry instant yeast quick rise preferred
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.333 cup melted butter
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 4.5 cups all-purpose flour
Filling Ingredients
  • 0.5 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 Tbsps cinnamon
Frosting Ingredients
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream, warmed
  • 8 oz softened cream cheese
  • 0.333 cup softened butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla or maple extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm the milk to about 110–115°F. It should feel warm, not hot.
  2. Lightly grease a 9x13 pan and set aside.
  3. Have your softened butter and cream cheese ready.
Making the Dough
  1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter, beaten eggs, and salt. Stir to combine.
  3. Add 2 cups of flour and mix until smooth.
  4. Add the rest of the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, and mix until a soft dough forms.
  5. Knead by hand on a floured surface or with a stand mixer dough hook for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Preparing the Filling
  1. Mix 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons cinnamon until smooth and spreadable.
Assembly
  1. Punch down risen dough and roll it into a rectangle about 16x12 inches.
  2. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small edge.
  3. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
  4. Cut the log into 12 even rolls with a sharp knife or dental floss.
  5. Place rolls in the prepared pan, cover, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Making the Frosting
  1. Whisk together 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup softened butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla or maple extract.
  2. When rolls come out of the oven, pour warmed heavy cream over them for a moist top, then spread cream cheese frosting while warm so it melts into the rolls.
Baking
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake rolls 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  3. Let cool 5–10 minutes, then frost generously.

Notes

Serve warm for the best texture. Portion control helps make these part of a balanced meal. For a balanced option, serve one roll with a side of Greek yogurt and berries.