Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, dissolve 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in 1/2 cup of warm milk (about 110°F).

Let the mixture stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.

Add 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 large egg, and 1/2 cup of warm milk to the yeast mixture. Mix well.

Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1-1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened butter, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon.

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches.

Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough.

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices (about 1 inch thick).

Place the cinnamon rolls in the prepared baking pan, spacing them slightly apart.

Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 20-30 minutes.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of softened butter until smooth.

Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until the desired consistency is reached.

Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before frosting.

Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!