CINNAMON ROLLS

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:
   In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, sugar, egg, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
4. Roll and Fill:
   Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
5. Shape the Rolls:
   Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Second Rise:
   Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
7. Bake:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Make the Glaze:
   Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then mix in milk 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
9. Serve:
   Spread the glaze over warm rolls. Enjoy warm!

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