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Cinnamon rolls have secured their place as one of the most beloved treats across cafes and homes alike. Their warm, gooey, and aromatic nature makes them an irresistible comfort food, perfect for lazy Sunday mornings, festive gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness and indulgence. There’s something special about the act of baking cinnamon rolls from scratch, as the smells wafting through the kitchen create a sense of coziness that store-bought alternatives simply cannot replicate.

Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the ultimate homemade cinnamon rolls topped with cream cheese frosting! This comforting recipe is perfect for lazy mornings or holiday gatherings. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll master the art of creating fluffy, gooey goodness from scratch. Experience the warm aromas filling your kitchen as you bake these delicious treats that are sure to impress family and friends. Don’t miss out on this delectable treat! #CinnamonRolls #Baking #HomemadeGoodness #ComfortFood #DessertDelight #CreamCheeseFrosting #SundayBaking
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Ingredients
  

For the Cinnamon Rolls:

4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)

⅓ cup granulated sugar

⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add in melted butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.

    Knead the Dough: Gradually add in flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

      First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

        Make the Filling: While the dough rises, in another bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) until well combined and spreadable.

          Roll and Shape: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16x24 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough.

            Form the Rolls: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces (about 1.5 inches wide). Place in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

              Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

                Preheat Oven: While the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                  Bake the Rolls: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

                    Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, in a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

                      Cool and Frost: Remove rolls from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes before generously spreading the cream cheese frosting over them.

                        Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature. These cinnamon rolls are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

                          Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls