Ingredients
Method
Preparing the Dough:
- Mixing the Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, warm 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of butter until the butter is melted. Let it cool slightly, then whisk in 2 eggs. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Kneading the Dough:Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Letting It Rise:Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preparing the Filling: 4. Combining Cinnamon and Sugar:In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of brown sugar and 2 1/2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon.
- Spreading Butter:Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16x12 inches). Spread 1/3 cup of softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkling the Filling:Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring it reaches all the edges.
- Shaping and Baking: 7. Cutting the Dough into Rolls:Starting from the long edge, roll up the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12-15 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Arranging in a Baking Pan:Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Baking Time and Temperature:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Perfecting the Frosting: 10. Making a Smooth Cream Cheese Frosting:In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- Adjusting Sweetness Levels:Taste the frosting as you mix, and adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your preference. Some might prefer a tangier frosting, while others might like it sweeter.
Notes
- Kneading Tips: Ensure the dough is kneaded well to develop gluten for a chewy texture. Kneading helps to make the dough elastic, which is crucial for the rolls to rise properly.
- Ideal Rising Conditions: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment. A good tip is to preheat your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off and let the dough rise inside the oven.
- Enhancing the Flavor: Fresh butter, eggs, and cinnamon make a noticeable difference in the taste of your rolls. High-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Adding a Touch of Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg in the cinnamon-sugar mixture can add a warm, spiced depth to the rolls, enhancing the overall flavor.