Soft Cinnamon Scrolls, often referred to as Cinnabons, are the quintessential comfort food that evokes warmth and happiness. Imagine biting into a fluffy, freshly baked roll, swirled with aromatic cinnamon and sweet brown sugar, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that oozes decadence. These delightful treats are not just a breakfast indulgence; they are perfect for dessert, holidays, or any special occasion where you want to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale:
4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
6 ounces cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warmed milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix together until a soft dough begins to form.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Shape the scrolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Roll and cut: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Second rise: Arrange the cut rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise again in a warm area for about 30-45 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon scrolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Make the frosting: While the rolls are baking, whip together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Frost and enjoy: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before generously spreading the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon scrolls.
