Indulge in warm, gooey cinnamon rolls infused with the rich flavor of Hennessy and crunchy pecans. Perfect for a special brunch or dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (100-110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup Hennessy (or other cognac)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Hennessy Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons Hennessy (or other cognac)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and Hennessy. Mix until well combined.
- Add the chopped pecans and mix into the filling.
3. Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
- Spread the Hennessy pecan filling evenly over the dough.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Place the slices in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before frosting.
5. Prepare the Hennessy Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until creamy.
- Stir in the Hennessy, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. Frost and Serve:
- Spread the Hennessy cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!