Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, lukewarm (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 3 1/4 - 3 1/2 cups (390g - 420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-4 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast: Proof the yeast in lukewarm milk with a teaspoon of sugar.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Combine the yeast mixture, remaining sugar, salt, melted butter, and egg.
  3. Add Flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare Filling: While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
  6. Roll and Fill: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
  7. Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal-sized rolls.
  8. Second Rise: Place the cinnamon rolls in the prepared baking pan. Cover and let rise until puffy.
  9. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through.
  10. Make the Glaze: Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then gradually add milk until the desired consistency is reached.
  11. Glaze and Serve: Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before frosting generously with the cream cheese glaze. Serve warm and enjoy these 'Saftige Zimtschnecken'!