Large, Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
- Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead 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 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches in size.
- Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
- Cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss (non-flavored).
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
4. Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly in the baking dish.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the rolls are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat until the frosting is smooth and reaches your desired consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk a tablespoon at a time.
6. Frost the Rolls:
- Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls. The warmth of the rolls will help the frosting melt slightly, coating each roll with a luscious layer of sweetness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the cinnamon rolls warm, with the gooey frosting melting into every bite. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Tips for Success
- Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm, but not too hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and butter to help the dough rise evenly.
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten in the dough, making the rolls soft and fluffy. The dough should be smooth and elastic after kneading.
- Rising Time: Allow enough time for the dough to rise, as this ensures the rolls are light and airy.
- Frosting: Frost the rolls while they are still warm for a gooey, decadent finish.
Enjoy your large, fluffy cinnamon rolls, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day!