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Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls

Fluffy, tender homemade cinnamon rolls filled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 1 cup whole milk warmed (105-115°F)
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour divided
  • 1 tsp salt
Filling
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp whole milk or heavy cream as needed

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer (optional)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Rolling pin
  • Electric Mixer (for frosting)

Method
 

  1. Combine warm milk, yeast, and ¼ cup sugar; let foam 5-10 minutes.
  2. Stir in egg and melted butter. Add 3 cups flour and salt. Knead 5-7 minutes, adding up to ½ cup more flour, until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
  4. Roll dough into 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter for filling, then sprinkle with ½ cup sugar and cinnamon.
  5. Tightly roll dough into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces.
  6. Arrange rolls in greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  8. While rolls bake, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Beat in powdered sugar and vanilla. Add milk/cream as needed.
  9. Spread frosting generously over warm baked rolls. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure all frosting ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free consistency. Do not overbake the rolls to keep them soft and tender.