Overnight (or not) Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a classic and indulgent treat that are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack.

Ingredients for the dough:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 large egg

Ingredients for the filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Ingredients for the cream cheese frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Add the milk mixture and egg to the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough comes together. You may need slightly more or less flour depending on the dough consistency.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
10. Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls.
11. Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, cover with the kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
12. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
14. Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
15. Serve the cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy their delightful, sweet and cinnamon-spiced flavor.

These homemade cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that will fill your home with a wonderful aroma and satisfy your sweet tooth.