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Copycat Cinnabon Rolls with Gooey Cream Cheese Frosting

Copycat Cinnabon Rolls with Gooey Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft, enriched dough rolled with brown sugar cinnamon filling and topped with a thick cream cheese frosting, baked until puffy and golden.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 cup whole milk warmed to about 110°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter softened, plus 1/3 cup melted butter for filling
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup butter softened, for frosting
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt for frosting

Method
 

  1. Proof the yeast: Combine warmed milk, a spoonful of the granulated sugar and the yeast in a bowl. Let it sit 5-10 minutes until foamy on top, which confirms the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the dough: Whisk eggs, remaining sugar, softened butter and salt into the yeast mixture. Add flour one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead until smooth: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky. Add a bit more flour only if it sticks to your hands.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  5. Make the filling: Stir together brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside with the melted butter ready for spreading.
  6. Roll out the dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 16x12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the melted butter evenly over the surface, leaving a small border.
  7. Add the filling: Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the buttered dough, pressing gently so it sticks.
  8. Roll and slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or unflavored floss.
  9. Second rise: Arrange the rolls cut side up in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.
  10. Bake the rolls: Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, until the tops are light golden and the centers spring back when pressed.
  11. Make the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar, vanilla and salt. Beat until fluffy and lump-free.
  12. Frost while warm: Spread the frosting over the rolls while they're still warm, so it melts into the swirls. Serve right away for the gooiest texture.