2tablespoonscream cheese, softened to room temperature
2tablespoonsmilk (for frosting)
1teaspoonvanilla extract
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir well until all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, warmed water, melted unsalted butter, and room-temperature eggs until fully combined. Pour this wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, creating a shaggy dough.
Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, adding one cup at a time, until a soft dough begins to form and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to make this process easier.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for 15-20 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
In the meantime, prepare the filling by mixing the packed brown sugar with the ground cinnamon in a small bowl until thoroughly combined.
After the dough has risen, lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately ¼ inch thick. Brush the surface generously with melted butter, and then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough.
Starting from one edge, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts. Place the rolls into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spaced evenly.
Cover the baking dish with a towel and allow the rolls to rise for an additional 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
While the rolls bake, create the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately drizzle the frosting over the warm rolls. Serve them straight away for a gooey delight!
Notes
Serve the cinnamon rolls directly in the baking dish or transfer them to a decorative serving platter. For an elegant touch, adorn with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.