Cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of rich, warm dough and sweet, tangy frosting. Whether you're making them for a cozy weekend breakfast or for a special treat, these soft, fluffy rolls are sure to impress. The buttery cinnamon filling wrapped inside the dough, topped with a smooth, creamy frosting, creates an irresistible dessert that everyone loves.
In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting from scratch. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Cinnamon Rolls:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)
How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, softened butter, salt, and eggs into the mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth and combined.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 16x12 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly from one end to the other.
4. Slice and Arrange:
- Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Leave some space between the rolls to allow them to rise again.
- Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, until they’ve expanded.
5. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
7. Frost and Serve:
- Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before generously spreading the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Let the Dough Rise Properly: Be patient and allow the dough to rise fully for the best texture. This makes the rolls light and fluffy.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened for a smooth frosting and better dough consistency.
- Customize Your Filling: Add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for a fun twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare these cinnamon rolls the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them in the morning for fresh, warm cinnamon rolls.
Q: Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! After baking, let the rolls cool completely, then wrap them tightly and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven or microwave and top with frosting.
Conclusion
Cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are the perfect indulgence for any occasion. With their soft, fluffy texture and rich, creamy frosting, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. With this simple recipe, you can easily make these delicious treats that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Happy baking!