Cinnamon Roll Cinnabon Copycat with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of homemade cinnamon rolls that rival your favorite Cinnabon! These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a warm cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. The balance of traditional baking techniques with a hint of creativity makes these rolls perfect for breakfast or brunch, delighting everyone at the table. Plus, they are vegetarian-friendly!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Once risen, roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 16x24 inches). Spread softened butter over the dough.
5. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
6. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice into 12 equal pieces. Place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
9. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before generously frosting them with the cream cheese mixture.