Cream Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Cinnamon rolls are a timeless treat, beloved for their sweet, spiced flavor and soft, fluffy texture. Adding cream to the recipe elevates the experience, making the rolls even richer and more indulgent. This recipe will guide you through creating the most luxurious cream cinnamon rolls, perfect for a special breakfast or a decadent dessert.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream (for pouring over the rolls)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for thinning the frosting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring an even layer.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve doubled in size.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Just before baking, pour the heavy cream evenly over the risen rolls. This step ensures the rolls stay moist and tender as they bake.
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve:
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
- Serve the cream cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Tips for Success
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour until it’s workable.
- Heavy Cream: Pouring heavy cream over the rolls before baking keeps them incredibly soft and gooey.
- Overnight Option: You can prepare the rolls the night before. After shaping, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise for about 45 minutes before baking.
These cream cinnamon rolls are a true treat, combining the best of soft, fluffy bread with rich, sweet filling and creamy frosting. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or dessert, they are sure to become a favorite in your household!
