Classic Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients:

• Dough:
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Filling:
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Icing:
  • 6 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix well.
2. Make the Dough: Gradually add flour to the yeast mixture, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. This might take about 6-8 minutes of kneading.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
4. Prepare Filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
5. Shape Rolls: Roll the dough into a 16×21-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough and then sprinkle evenly with the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 rolls.
6. Second Rise: Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 18-20 minutes.
8. Make Icing: While rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Add milk as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
9. Finish: Spread icing over warm rolls before serving.

Nutritional Analysis and Health Benefits:

• Calories: Each roll contains approximately 350-400 calories, largely from sugars and fats.
• Carbohydrates: High in carbohydrates due to flour and sugar, providing a quick energy source.
• Protein: Moderate protein content from milk, eggs, and a small amount from flour.
• Fats: Contains saturated fats from butter and cream cheese, important for flavor and texture.

Health Impact:

• Energy Boost: The high carb content can offer a quick energy boost, making these rolls a satisfying breakfast or snack.
• Bone Health: Ingredients like milk and eggs provide calcium and vitamins necessary for bone health.
• Considerations: Given the high sugar and fat content, cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed in moderation, particularly for those with diabetes or heart disease concerns.

Enjoy these classic cinnamon rolls as an occasional treat, perfect for family gatherings or a weekend breakfast. Their warm, comforting aroma and sweet, gooey texture make them a favorite in many households.