Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting: The Ultimate Amazing Recipe

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate treat that combines warmth, sweetness, and a little bit of spice. These delightful rolls, with their soft, fluffy texture and rich, creamy frosting, are simply amazing, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
Imagine biting into a warm cinnamon roll, the gooey cinnamon filling oozing out, and the luscious cream cheese frosting melting into every crevice. It’s a heavenly experience that is hard to resist. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo, these cinnamon rolls are sure to bring a smile to your face.
In this guide, you will discover why this recipe is a must-try, how to prepare these delicious rolls, and tips for serving them perfectly. Get ready to indulge in the wonderful world of cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just a dish; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
1. Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly comforting about warm cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven.
2. Irresistible Aroma: The smell of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home is pure bliss.
3. Decadent Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy contrast to the sweet rolls.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, a weekend brunch, or just a regular day, these rolls fit perfectly.
5. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be a pro in no time.
6. Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling for an extra twist.
These rolls are more than just a treat; they create joyful memories and bring people together. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors that you won’t soon forget!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting requires some time, but the results are well worth it. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Rising Time: 1 hour
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
In total, you can expect to spend about 2 hours from start to finish, including rising and cooling times. This timeline allows you to prepare the dough and the filling while ensuring the rolls rise beautifully.

Ingredients

– For the Dough:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup whole milk, warmed
– ¼ cup water, warmed
– 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– For the Filling:
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
– For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these delicious Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the warmed milk, water, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until combined.
3. Add Remaining Flour: Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
7. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Spread the Butter: Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Sprinkle Filling: Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough.
10. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
11. Cut the Rolls: Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish.
12. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
13. Preheat the Oven: During the last 10 minutes of rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
14. Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
15. Cool the Rolls: Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
16. Make the Frosting: While the rolls cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Add milk as needed for desired consistency.
17. Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
These simple steps will guide you in creating the most delicious Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting you’ll ever taste!

How to Serve

To make the most of your Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting, consider these serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Arrange the rolls on a beautiful platter or cake stand to elevate their appearance.
2. Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
3. Beverage Pairing: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to complement the sweetness.
4. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
5. Reheating: To enjoy the rolls warm again, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at low heat.
By putting thought into how you serve these rolls, you can create a memorable experience for yourself and your guests. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joy they bring!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality sugar will elevate the flavor of your cinnamon rolls.
– Don’t Rush the Rising: Allowing the dough to rise adequately is key to achieving fluffy rolls. Be patient; it will be worth it.
– Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
– Try Different Frosting: While cream cheese frosting is classic, consider a maple glaze or vanilla icing for a different twist.

Recipe Variation

There are many ways to customize your Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some variations to consider:
1. Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls: Add canned pumpkin and spices to the dough for a fall-inspired treat.
2. Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Fold mini chocolate chips into the filling for a sweet surprise.
3. Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Mix chopped apples into the filling for a fruity twist.
4. Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep your cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain their softness.
– Freezing: To freeze, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Having the right tools can make the process smoother. Here’s what you will need:
– Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
– Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly.
– Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for baking the rolls.
– Kitchen Towel: To cover the rolls while they rise.
– Electric Mixer: Helpful for making the cream cheese frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but you will need to activate it in warm water before mixing it into the dough.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute with mascarpone cheese or a simple vanilla glaze if cream cheese is unavailable.
Is it possible to make mini cinnamon rolls?
Yes! Simply roll out the dough, cut it into smaller rectangles, and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that brings joy to any table. Their soft texture, combined with the rich frosting, makes them irresistible. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with variations, these rolls are sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making them and the smiles they bring!

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