The Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Recipe: Indulge with a Creamy Twist

Are you ready to bake the most decadent, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls you've ever tasted? This recipe uses heavy cream for an extra rich and luxurious flavor and texture that will leave you craving more. Forget everything you thought you knew about cinnamon rolls – this is the ultimate experience.

Why Heavy Cream Makes All the Difference

While traditional cinnamon roll recipes often rely on milk or buttermilk, incorporating heavy cream elevates the entire experience. The higher fat content in heavy cream contributes to:

• Ultimate Tenderness: Heavy cream creates an incredibly soft and tender dough, resulting in cinnamon rolls that practically melt in your mouth.
• Rich Flavor: The cream adds a subtle richness that complements the cinnamon and sugar beautifully. It enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Improved Texture: The dough will be easier to work with, resulting in a more even rise and a more beautiful final product.

Ingredients You'll Need:

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 ½ - 5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:

Making the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, melted butter, and heavy cream to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Assembling the Cinnamon Rolls:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle (approximately 12x18 inches).
3. Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
4. Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
5. Place in Pan: Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.

Second Rise and Baking:

1. Second Rise: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
2. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Cool Slightly: Let the cinnamon rolls cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before frosting.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat Together: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add Sugar and Flavorings: Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Adjust Consistency: Add milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Frost the Rolls: Frost the warm cinnamon rolls generously.

Tips for Success:

• Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cinnamon rolls.
• Use fresh yeast: Old yeast won't activate properly.
• Let the dough rise completely: This is crucial for achieving the best texture.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Allow space between the rolls for even baking.

This heavy cream cinnamon roll recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. The rich, creamy flavor and unbelievably soft texture will make these cinnamon rolls a true culinary masterpiece. Enjoy!