Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, sugar, cardamom, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast, allowing it to bloom for about 5-10 minutes. Then, add this yeast mixture along with the eggs, vanilla, and butter to the flour mixture. Gradually mix in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead the dough gently for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook if you prefer. Simply mix on low until the dough is well-combined and smooth.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- While the dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 6: Spread the Filling
- Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 7: Roll and Cut
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into rolls, about 1-1.5 inches wide.
Step 8: Second Rise
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, covering them again with a towel. Let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they expand.
Step 9: Baking the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; every oven behaves differently!
Step 10: Make the Icing
- While the rolls bake, prepare the icing. In a bowl, combine the browned butter, softened cream cheese, vanilla, caramel sauce, and powdered sugar. Whip until smooth and creamy.
Step 11: Glaze It Up!
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the icing generously over the warm rolls. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for that final touch.
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your cinnamon rolls depends significantly on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality butter and cinnamon for the best results.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls until the second rise, then cover them and refrigerate overnight. Just allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
- Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully! Freeze them before icing, and simply warm them up when you're ready to enjoy.
- Variations: Feel free to get creative! Add nuts, raisins, or other spices to the filling for extra flavor.
- Baking Dish: Using a metal pan can cause the bottoms to bake faster. Consider using glass if you want evenly baked rolls.
