Ingredients
For the Dough









For the Filling








For the Cream Cheese Frosting









Instructions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine *warm milk*, *sugar*, *salt*, *yeast*, *egg*, and *softened butter*. Make sure the milk is warm, not hot or cold, to keep the yeast active.
If using non-instant yeast, let it activate in the milk with sugar and salt for about 10 minutes before adding egg and other ingredients.
Step 2
Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Initially, the dough may be sticky and tacky, but avoid adding too much flour.
Knead for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes *smooth* and *soft*. If it remains overly sticky after 5 minutes, add a little flour (1-2 tablespoons at a time).
Step 3
Cover the bowl with a plate or a towel and let the dough rest for about 10 minutes. This relaxation period helps the dough become more pliable.
Step 4
Flour your work surface well and roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 38x45 centimeters (15x18 inches).
Spread softened butter over the surface, leaving one edge free from butter. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough surface.
Step 5
Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the buttered edge. Pinch the seams tightly to seal. Trim the uneven edges and cut the roll into 12 equal parts.
Step 6
Place the rolls into a baking dish, ensuring each roll has enough space to expand. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a towel and let them proof in a warm place for 40-50 minutes. The rolls should nearly double in size during this time.
Step 7
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Step 8
Beat softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes *white* and *fluffy*. Add the cold cream cheese and beat again until smooth. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls before serving.
Servings
These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. 🥰 For an indulgent breakfast, pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a latte. ☕️ You can also serve them as a luxurious dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
If you're planning a brunch, arrange the cinnamon rolls on a beautiful platter and drizzle extra icing on top for that wow factor. 🍽️ If you have leftovers (which is rare!), they can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feeling. Don’t forget to share these delightful rolls with friends and family—they are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Equipment
Essential for combining the ingredients. Use one large bowl for the dough and a smaller one for the sugar-cinnamon mixture.
Helps to roll out the dough evenly. If you don’t have a rolling pin, a clean wine bottle can work in a pinch!



Accuracy is key in baking, so make sure to use proper measuring tools to get the best results.



Use a baking tray lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent the rolls from sticking.
Perfect for slicing the dough into even pieces without squishing them.



If you have one, this can save you some elbow grease when kneading the dough.



Variations
For a **gluten-free** version, simply substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum to help mimic the texture of regular dough. 🌾
To make these rolls **vegan**, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with vegan butter. For the egg, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). And don’t forget to use vegan cream cheese for the icing! 🌱💖
Faq
- Why does my dough feel sticky?
It's normal for the dough to be a bit sticky initially. Try not to add too much extra flour as it will make the rolls dense. Kneading will help it become smooth and elastic.
- Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, regular sugar can be used, but brown sugar adds a deeper flavor and extra moisture to the rolls.
- How do I know if my yeast is active?
If you’re using non-instant yeast, let it sit in warm milk with a bit of sugar for about 10 minutes. It should become frothy and bubbly. If it doesn’t, your yeast might be expired.
- What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No problem! You can mix the ingredients by hand and knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Can I refrigerate the dough overnight?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before rolling it out and proceeding with the recipe.
- How can I make my rolls extra soft?
Make sure not to over-bake them and use a generous amount of butter in the dough as well as for greasing the rolls before baking.