Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

• Dough:
• 2 (1/4 oz each) packets rapid rise yeast ((i.e. Two 1/4 oz packets))
• 1 1/3 cup milk (lukewarm (110°F))
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 5 1/2 cups all purpose flour (plus additional for dusting)
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• Filling:
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• Frosting:
• 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3 Tbsp heavy cream (plus additional as needed to thin)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a a large measuring cup or bowl dissolve yeast in milk. Set aside to bloom for 5-7 minutes until frothy.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl use a whisk to sift together flour, sugar and salt. Make a well in the center.

3. 3

   Add butter and yeast mixture to the well. Stir together, adding egg while mixture is still loose. Mix well.

4. 4

   Using an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook, knead the dough for 5 minutes or until it pulls away from the side of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, add additional flour 1 Tbsp at time, up to 1/2 cup. (Alternately, knead the dough by hand for 5 minutes on a lightly floured surface.)

5. 5

   Grease the sides and bottom of a clean bowl. Transfer dough to bowl. Cover with a damp towel and let sit for 1 hour or until doubled.

6. 6

   Punch down dough. Turn out onto a floured surface. Turn to coat with flour working in additional flour just until the dough isn't sticky. Press into a 24x12 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter from end to end.

7. 7

   In a small bowl mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Sprinkle evenly over butter.

8. 8

   Using floured fingers begin rolling from widest edge ending seam side down. Use dental floss or a sharp knife to cut into 24 even pieces.

9. 9

   Butter the bottom and sides of a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a 13x9-inch baking pan. Arrange cinnamon rolls side by side in the skillet. Cover with damp cloth and let rise 1 hour in a warm place or until doubled.

10. 10

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Uncover cinnamon rolls. Bake for 30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

11. 11

    Frosting: In a small mixing bowl whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla and cream. Add additional cream until it reaches desired consistency. Frost cinnamon rolls.

12. 12

    Serve warm or at room temperature.