Get ready to indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade Cinnamon Buns with Cream Cheese Frosting! These delightful treats are not just a breakfast staple; they are a sweet escape that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy bun swirled with a luscious cinnamon filling, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you're treating yourself or impressing guests, this recipe promises to elevate your baking game. Don't miss out on the chance to create a batch of these heavenly buns that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 buns
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Warm the milk and butter in a saucepan until butter is melted and mixture reaches approximately 110-115°F. This temperature ensures optimal yeast activation without killing the live cultures.
- Pour warm milk-butter mixture into dry ingredients. Add eggs and mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add remaining flour, kneading until a soft, elastic dough forms. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Knead for approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- While dough rises, prepare filling by mixing brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate small bowl.
- After rising, punch down dough and roll out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 18x12 inches.
- Spread softened butter across rolled dough, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon-brown sugar mixture, leaving a small border around edges.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Place rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, leaving small spaces between each bun. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and center is cooked through.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Allow buns to cool slightly before spreading frosting.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade cinnamon buns!
Tips
- Perfect Dough Consistency: When kneading the dough, aim for a soft and elastic texture. It should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it's too sticky, gradually add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it!
- Warm Rising Environment: For the best rise, place your dough in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, you can turn on your oven for a few minutes, then turn it off and place the dough inside to rise.
- Cutting the Buns: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the rolled dough into equal pieces. This will help maintain the shape and prevent squishing the buns.
- Don’t Rush the Second Rise: Allowing the buns to rise again after cutting is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. Be patient and let them double in size before baking.
- Frosting Tips: For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cream cheese frosting for added flavor. Spread the frosting while the buns are still warm for a deliciously melty finish.
- Storage: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
