Of course! Here is a comprehensive, large-format recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls, complete with history, benefits, and detailed instructions.
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A Brief History & Introduction
The humble cinnamon roll has roots in Sweden, where “Kanelbulle” is a national treasure, enjoyed with coffee in a tradition called “fika.” It crossed the Atlantic and became an American breakfast staple, often slathered in a simple powdered sugar glaze.
This recipe elevates that classic by weaving rich, tangy cream cheese directly into its very soul. We’re not just topping it; we’re creating a luxurious ribbon of flavor that marries with the warm cinnamon sugar in every single bite. The result is a pastry that is simultaneously familiar and decadently new—softer, richer, and utterly irresistible.
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The Formation: Understanding the Layers
A great pastry is all about layers. Here’s how this one comes together:
1. The Foundation: A soft, enriched yeast dough, slightly sweet and tender.
2. The Heart: A layer of softened cream cheese, sweetened with sugar and vanilla.
3. The Soul: The classic blanket of butter, cinnamon, and sugar.
4. The Transformation: Rolled, sliced, and baked until golden, allowing the cream cheese to meld into the cinnamon swirls.
5. The Crown (Optional): A final drizzle of cream cheese glaze for the ultimate indulgence.
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
· ¾ cup warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
· 2 ¼ tsp (one ¼ oz packet) active dry yeast
· ¼ cup granulated sugar
· 1 large egg, at room temperature
· 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
· ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
· 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
· ¾ tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
· 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
· ¼ cup granulated sugar
· 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
· ½ cup unsalted butter, very soft
· ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
· 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional):
· 4 oz cream cheese, softened
· 1 cup powdered sugar
· 1-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
· ½ tsp vanilla extract
· Pinch of salt
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Method & Instructions
Part 1: Making the Dough
1. Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of the sugar together. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be dead; start over.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: To the yeast mixture, add the remaining sugar, the whole egg, egg yolk, and melted butter. Whisk until combined.
3. Knead the Dough: Attach the dough hook to the mixer. Add the flour and salt. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together, then increase to medium speed and knead for 5-7 minutes. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, and pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s too sticky, add 1-2 more tablespoons of flour.
4. First Rise: Form the dough into a ball. Place it in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Part 2: Assembling the Rolls
1. Prepare Fillings: While the dough rises, make the fillings. For the cream cheese filling, beat the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, and vanilla together until smooth. For the cinnamon sugar, mix the soft butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl until it forms a spreadable paste.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, punch the dough down. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 10×15 inch rectangle.
3. Layer the Fillings: Spread the softened cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along one long edge. Next, carefully dollop the cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon sugar and spread it as evenly as possible with an offset spatula.
4. Roll it Up: Starting from the long end opposite the clean border, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam to seal. Ensure the seam is on the bottom.
5. Slice: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Part 3: Baking & Glazing
1. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers are cooked through.
3. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the molten fillings to set.
4. Glaze: While the rolls cool, make the glaze. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. Drizzle over the warm rolls.
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Nutrition & Benefits
Let’s be honest: this is a treat. However, understanding its components can help you enjoy it mindfully.
· Energy Source: The carbohydrates from the flour and sugar provide a quick source of energy.
· Calcium & Protein: The milk, cream cheese, and eggs contribute to your daily intake of calcium for bone health and protein for muscle repair.
· Mood & Comfort: The warm spices like cinnamon and the act of baking itself are known to have comforting, mood-boosting properties. Sharing a homemade baked good fosters connection and joy.
· Moderation is Key: These rolls are high in sugar, fat, and calories. Enjoy them as an occasional indulgence, not a daily staple.
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For the Lovers of Flavor
This recipe is for those who believe a classic can always be improved. It’s for the cream cheese enthusiast who finds a schmear on a bagel isn’t enough. It’s for anyone who seeks a truly decadent centerpiece for a holiday brunch, a special weekend treat, or a gesture of love baked into a pan. The addition of cream cheese makes these rolls exceptionally moist and rich, setting them a world apart from the standard cinnabon clone.
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Conclusion
The Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Roll is more than just a pastry; it’s a project of love and a guaranteed showstopper. The process of watching the dough rise, smelling the cinnamon fill your kitchen, and finally pulling a pan of golden, swirled perfection from the oven is a deeply satisfying experience. By integrating the cream cheese directly into the filling, we create a ripple of tangy richness that perfectly balances the sweetness, resulting in a truly unforgettable bake. Serve them warm with a cup of strong coffee and watch them disappear.