What makes the perfect breakfast treat, a sweet and sticky cinnamon roll or a creamy cheesecake, why choose when you can have both in one delicious homemade pastry, featuring a rich cream cheese topping and gooey icing on top of soft baked dough, save this idea for your next easy weeknight dinner turned family favorite breakfast dish, try it soon

cinnamon rolls with icing on top in a baking dish, and then topped with cream cheese

Introduction

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, smothered in a rich icing and topped with a generous dollop of cream cheese. This decadent treat is not only a delight to the senses, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make using everyday ingredients. With a few simple steps and some creative flair, you can impress your family and friends with a delicious, homemade cinnamon roll dish that’s sure to become a favorite. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making cinnamon rolls with icing on top in a baking dish, and then topped with cream cheese, highlighting the ease, flavor, and creativity that makes this recipe a standout.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of sweet cinnamon, rich icing, and tangy cream cheese creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making it a convenient choice for bakers of all levels.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is relatively simple to prepare, requiring only a few hours of rising time and some basic mixing and baking skills.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The end result is a stunning, professionally-looking dessert that’s sure to impress your loved ones, all with minimal effort and fuss.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients in this recipe include warm milk, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, unsalted butter, cinnamon, icing sugar, and cream cheese. You can substitute the unsalted butter with salted butter if needed, and use a combination of all-purpose and bread flour for a more complex texture. Additionally, you can use different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, to create a unique flavor profile.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in warm milk, then mix in the sugar, flour, and salt to create a smooth dough. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray. Roll out the dough to a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick, and spread with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
3. Step 3: Roll the dough into a tight log, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
4. Step 4: While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing together icing sugar, cream cheese, and a pinch of salt. Once the rolls are done, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling with the icing and topping with a dollop of cream cheese.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the dough, as this can lead to a dense and tough texture. Instead, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then let the dough rest and rise.
• Use a high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of sugar and spices to create a unique flavor profile.
• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough and icing ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Heat Control

To achieve the perfect golden brown color and tender texture, it’s essential to control the heat in your oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown. Keep an eye on the rolls during the baking time, as the heat can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the crispy, caramelized sugar on top of the rolls, which provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft and fluffy interior. To achieve this, make sure to not overbake the rolls, as this can lead to a dry and crumbly texture. Instead, bake the rolls until they’re just golden brown and still slightly tender in the center.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a pastry brush to apply the icing and cream cheese topping, as this will help to create a smooth and even layer.
• Experiment with different types of flour, such as bread flour or whole wheat flour, to create a more complex texture and flavor profile.
• Don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings and fillings, such as adding nuts, fruit, or chocolate chips to the dough or icing.

Storage Tips

• Store the baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat the rolls in the microwave or oven until warm and toasted, or serve at room temperature.
• Use a high-quality container or bag to store the rolls, as this will help to keep them fresh and prevent staleness.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give this recipe as a gift, consider packaging the rolls in a decorative tin or jar, or wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the rolls.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a unique and aromatic flavor.
• Creative toppings: Experiment with different types of nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to add texture and flavor to the rolls.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a tangy and creamy topping.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the rolls are too dense or tough, try adjusting the yeast or rising time. If the rolls are too dry or crumbly, try adding more sugar or butter to the dough.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re missing an ingredient, try substituting it with a similar ingredient or omitting it altogether. However, keep in mind that this may affect the final flavor and texture of the rolls.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the rolls during the baking time, as they can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt. If the rolls are undercooked, they may be pale and soft in the center. If the rolls are overcooked, they may be dark brown and dry.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls for up to 2 months. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the use of all-purpose flour. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch of rolls. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this recipe for cinnamon rolls with icing on top in a baking dish, and then topped with cream cheese is a delicious and impressive dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. With its perfectly balanced flavor profile, easy preparation, and stunning presentation, it’s the perfect treat to serve at any occasion. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the process of making these delicious cinnamon rolls. Happy baking!