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Guaranteed 12 Soft Cinnamon Buns Bliss

cinnamon buns

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Make the softest, gooiest homemade cinnamon buns with a simple, one-rise method. This recipe delivers that classic, indulgent flavor you crave, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. We share our family’s love for baking in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar plus 1 teaspoon
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • For the Frosting:
  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Whisk the remaining sugar, eggs, and melted butter into the yeast mixture.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Add the vanilla.
  4. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. First Rise (One Rise Method): Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  6. Prepare filling: While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon together in a small bowl until well combined.
  7. Shape the buns: Punch down the risen dough gently. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
  8. Spread filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the entire surface of the dough.
  9. Roll and cut: Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
  10. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover lightly and let them rest for 20-30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  12. Make frosting: While the buns cool slightly, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk or cream until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  13. Frost and serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cinnamon buns. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and milk, help the yeast activate better.
  • For easier cleanup, use parchment paper to line your baking pan before placing the rolls inside.
  • If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly.
  • Do not skip the resting time before baking; this helps keep your buns soft.

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