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Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

4.6 from 408 reviews

These homemade cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar butter blend. Topped with a creamy heavy cream pour-over and finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for a comforting breakfast or dessert treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons (8 grams) instant dry yeast
  • 2 large eggs
  • 5 tablespoons (70 grams) butter, melted (not hot)
  • 4 1/2 cups (540 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (99 grams) granulated sugar

Filling

  • 8 tablespoons (114 grams) softened butter
  • 1 cup (213 grams) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Topping and Frosting

  • 2/3 cup heavy cream
  • 8 tablespoons (113 grams) unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 1/5 cups (283 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: Heat the milk until warm to the touch but not hot, then pour it into a stand mixer bowl. Sprinkle the instant dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate the yeast.
  2. Prepare the Dough: Add eggs, melted butter (not hot), salt, granulated sugar, and flour into the bowl with the activated yeast. Using a dough hook, mix on low speed until ingredients start coming together, then increase to medium speed and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth but still slightly sticky.
  3. Proof the Dough: Lightly spray a large bowl with non-stick spray, transfer the dough into it, cover with a towel, and place in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
  4. Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well mixed. Set aside.
  5. Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, turn out the risen dough and roll it into a 12×15-inch rectangle. Dust off excess flour carefully.
  6. Spread Filling: Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough, right up to the edges.
  7. Roll and Cut: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, brushing off any excess flour from the edges as you roll. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 12 equal pieces.
  8. Arrange in Pan: Spray a 12-inch cast iron pan or a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. Place the cut rolls in the pan and pour the heavy cream evenly over them.
  9. Optional Refrigeration: You can cover the pan and refrigerate the rolls overnight. If so, allow them to sit at room temperature for about an hour before baking.
  10. Final Rise: If baking immediately, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the pan with a towel or foil and let the rolls rise for 20 minutes until doubled in size.
  11. Bake: Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes or until golden brown and the centers are fully cooked through.
  12. Prepare Frosting: Using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy.
  13. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing continuously until fully combined, then mix in the vanilla extract.
  14. Frost Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over them and serve warm for best flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure the milk is warm to activate yeast but not hot, or it will kill the yeast.
  • For easier handling, flour the surface lightly when rolling the dough, but avoid adding too much flour to keep rolls soft.
  • Allowing the rolls to refrigerate overnight develops flavor and saves time in the morning.
  • The heavy cream poured over the rolls during baking makes them extra moist and tender.
  • Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut rolls cleanly without squishing them.
  • Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting to prevent the cream cheese icing from melting too much.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat gently in the microwave to enjoy warm cinnamon rolls later.

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, cinnamon roll recipe, cinnamon sugar rolls, cream cheese frosting, homemade cinnamon rolls, breakfast rolls