Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
For the Vanilla Cream Filling:
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, egg, butter, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir.
- Gradually add flour and knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer).
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Make the Vanilla Cream:
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, cornstarch, sugar, and egg yolk over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla extract and butter. Stir until smooth. Let cool completely.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle (~12×16 inches).
- Spread the cooled vanilla cream evenly over the dough.
- Roll up tightly from the long edge, jelly-roll style. Slice into 10–12 rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Glaze (Optional):
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Let me know if you’d like a version with whipped cream, cream cheese, or a custard-style filling!