Classic Cinnamon Rolls

Prepare the preferment

Step 1

• In a large bowl, add 1 cup of warm milk (around 35°C). Stir in 1/4 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons dry yeast.

Step 2

• Mix well and let it rest for 30 minutes until it activates and doubles in size.

2. Make the dough

Step 1

• Once the preferment is activated, add 2 eggs and lightly beat them into the mixture.

Step 2

• Add 1/2 cup melted butter (make sure it is cooled to prevent curdling).

Step 3

• Sift 4 cups bread flour together with 1 teaspoon salt and gradually add to the mixture.

Step 4

• Knead for about 20 minutes on a lightly floured surface. The dough will be sticky at first due to high hydration; continue kneading until it becomes smooth and less sticky.

Step 5

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rest in a warm place until it triples in size, about 2 hours.

3. Shape the rolls

Step 1

• Once the dough has tripled, roll it out on a floured surface into a 60 x 40 cm rectangle.

Step 2

• Spread 1/2 cup softened butter evenly over the dough.

Step 3

• Sprinkle the mixture of 3/4 cup brown sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon evenly over the butter.

Step 4

• Carefully roll the dough into a cylinder.

Step 5

• Using dental floss or a sharp knife, cut the cylinder into 12 rolls.

Step 6

• Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Generously butter the parchment and sprinkle a thin layer of sugar and cinnamon. Leave space between the rolls.

Step 7

• Let the rolls rest for 45 minutes or until they double in size.

4. Bake

Step 1

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2

• Once the rolls have doubled in size, pour 1/2 cup hot heavy cream evenly over them. This will create a caramelized crust on the base during baking.

Step 3

• Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4

• Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

5. Prepare the cream cheese frosting

Step 1

• Beat together 1/4 cup butter, 1/2 cup cream cheese, and 1/3 cup powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 2

• Spread the frosting over the warm rolls before serving.