There’s something utterly irresistible about the warm, fluffy embrace of Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls. Freshly baked, they transform an ordinary morning into a delightful occasion. Imagine sinking your teeth into the soft dough, swirled with rich cinnamon and sugar, which is then slathered in a velvety cream cheese frosting. It’s a dreamy combination of sweet and savory that’s hard to resist!
Fun fact: did you know that the origin of cinnamon rolls can be traced back to ancient times? While these fluffy treats have evolved over the years, the comfort they bring remains timeless. These Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for anyone looking to treat themselves after a long week or simply to indulge in something homemade and delicious.
If you’re a fan of quick and satisfying recipes, you’ll also want to check out our warm and fudgy brownies. They’ll give you a sweet kick, just like these rolls. Now, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and create something truly special? Let’s get started with these Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls!
What are Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls?
So, what’s in a name? Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls! Doesn’t it sound divine? The name itself hints at the soft, pillowy goodness you’re about to devour. You might wonder, “Why cream cheese?” Well, it’s not just for the decadence; it’s all about that rich, creamy texture that takes these rolls to a whole new level. It’s like giving your ordinary cinnamon roll a luxurious upgrade and proving once and for all that the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach!
Trust me; your loved ones will be begging for seconds—and who could blame them? So why not whip up a batch and see for yourself how quickly these delightful rolls become a family favorite?
Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
When it comes to Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, there are three main reasons you’ll be head over heels for this recipe. First, the showstopper element is undeniably the cream cheese frosting. It’s rich yet perfectly balanced against the sweet spices of cinnamon, giving you that delightful contrast with each bite.
Second, making these rolls at home is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it can also save you some cash compared to buying store-bought pastries. Who wouldn’t love a delicious breakfast or snack that doesn’t break the bank?
Lastly, the combination of fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy topping makes these rolls a special experience. They’re perfect for sharing at brunch or just indulging as a pick-me-up snack during your busy days. If you enjoy homemade pastries but want to keep things simple, consider checking out our decadent chocolate chip muffins for another easy recipe idea.
Ready to dive in? Let’s start making some mouthwatering Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls!
How to Make Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Quick Overview
These Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are incredibly easy to whip up! In just about 1 hour and 15 minutes (including baking time), you can have a batch of warm, delightful rolls ready to be savored. All you need is a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps to create this scrumptious treat.
Key Ingredients for Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this recipe:
- For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup milk, warmed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon salt
- For the Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to desired consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F) with the granulated sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the softened butter, egg, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Add Filling: Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, and then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
- Slice the Rolls: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly to form a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal rolls.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for another 15 minutes.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before generously applying the cream cheese frosting.
Now, sit back and enjoy the incredible aroma filling your kitchen!
What to Serve Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls With
These Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are delicious on their own, but they can also make for a perfect brunch when paired with various accompaniments. Consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad for a burst of freshness or a nice cup of coffee to balance the sweetness. You could also throw together a light yogurt parfait if you’re looking for something a bit healthier.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
- Yeast Power: Ensure your yeast is not expired; otherwise, your dough might not rise as needed.
- Dough Texture: Don’t hesitate to add a little more flour if the dough seems too sticky.
- Filling Distribution: Be generous with the cinnamon filling for the best flavor, but keep it even to ensure all rolls are delicious.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Once you’ve baked and frosted your Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, but beware they may dry out slightly. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature.
If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, feel free to freeze them after baking. Just make sure they are completely cooled until freezing. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
There you have it! A delightful and satisfying recipe for Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls that is sure to bring joy to your family or friends. With their fluffy texture, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting, these rolls are a must-try. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and start rolling – you’ll be thoroughly rewarded with every delicious bite!
Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup milk, warmed around 110°F
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk to desired consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk with the granulated sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the softened butter, egg, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
- While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, and then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
- Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly to form a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal rolls.
- Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for another 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before generously applying the cream cheese frosting.
Leave a Reply