Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a freshly baked cinnamon roll, and when that roll is enriched with a luscious cream cheese frosting, you’re truly in for a treat. Imagine pulling apart a soft, fluffy roll, the cinnamon-spiced goodness spilling out, while a rich, tangy frosting provides a delicious contrast. Cinnamon rolls have an undeniable charm, often elevating simple mornings into cozy, memorable moments with family.
Did you know that cinnamon rolls can be traced back to ancient Swedes? They’ve evolved over the years, much like our favorite Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls recipe that’s sure to bring smiles around the breakfast table. Not only is this recipe straightforward and easy to whip up, but it combines that sumptuous flavor with a texture that will have you coming back for seconds—and maybe thirds! If you’ve tried our popular Lemon Blueberry Muffins, you’re in for another mouthwatering experience that beautifully balances simplicity and indulgence.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls!
What are Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls?
Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the traditional cinnamon roll, boasting a rich cream cheese filling and a velvety frosting that takes them to another level of indulgence. So, where does the name come from? Is it the creamy filling, the frosting, or the sheer joy of biting into one? The answer is likely a combination of all three! This treat is not just a dessert—it’s a statement. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and there’s no better way to win hearts than with these rolls. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and prepare to impress with this crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
It’s a Showstopper
These Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With their pillowy texture and an explosion of flavor, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone who can resist them.
Cost-Effective and Homey
Making these rolls at home is a budget-friendly choice that offers a sense of achievement. Why splurge at a café when you can create your own delectable rolls right in your kitchen? Besides, they’re so good, you’ll be able to enjoy them at home for a fraction of the cost.
Flavor Galore at Every Bite
The combination of cinnamon and cream cheese makes each roll a soothing experience for your taste buds. Just like a warm hug on a winter evening, each bite melts away your worries. Serve them warm and watch as everyone reaches for seconds—maybe even thirds!
Now that you know why these rolls are a must-try, let’s roll up our sleeves and make some magic happen in the kitchen!
How to Make Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Quick Overview
Making these Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls is not just easy, it’s satisfying, both to your taste buds and your spirit. The fluffy texture combined with the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen is simply divine. The whole process takes about 2 hours, including prep and baking time — perfect for a leisurely weekend.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir gently before adding the yeast. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
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Make the Dough: In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Stir until combined, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This usually takes about 1 hour.
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Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set this aside for later.
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Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly on top.
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Create Rolls: Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
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Second Rise: Cover the rolls again with a towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes until they puff up.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden.
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Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls cool, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting over warm rolls and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
- Flour Quantity: Measuring flour can be tricky. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for the best results.
- Resting Time: Don’t rush the rising time; it’s crucial for the dough’s texture.
- Cream Cheese Tip: For a creamier frosting, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and allow them to rise before baking. Reheat leftover rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds to restore their gooey goodness.
With these Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, you’re all set for an unforgettable culinary experience. Gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and watch them disappear! Happy baking!
Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting Spoon and level for accurate measurement.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast One packet.
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C) Warm to touch.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened For dough.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened For filling.
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk For frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Activating the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir gently before adding the yeast. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Making the Dough
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Stir until combined, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
Preparing the Filling
- In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set this aside for later.
Rolling the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly on top.
Creating Rolls
- Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
Second Rise
- Cover the rolls again with a towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes until they puff up.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden.
Preparing the Frosting
- While the rolls cool, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Frosting and Serving
- Spread the frosting over warm rolls and enjoy!
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