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Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and Christmas cinnamon rolls are no exception. Each component plays a vital role in creating the soft, fluffy texture and incredible flavor that make these rolls so beloved. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients you'll need to make your Christmas cinnamon rolls truly special.

Christmas Cinnamon Rolls

Experience the warm, festive spirit of the holidays with homemade Christmas cinnamon rolls! This simple yet delicious recipe combines fluffy dough, rich cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting for an irresistible treat. Perfect for Christmas morning or any holiday gathering, these rolls are sure to become a cherished tradition. Dive into the joy of baking and create sweet memories with every bite. #ChristmasBaking #CinnamonRolls #HolidayTraditions #FestiveTreats
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Ingredients
  

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup packed brown sugar

3 tbsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (for frosting)

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tbsp milk (for frosting)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.

    In another bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until it forms a sticky dough.

      Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

        While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl to create the filling.

          Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16x12 inches). Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter, and add optional chopped nuts if desired.

            Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log tightly. Pinch the seams to seal, and slice the log into 12 equal rolls.

              Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and place the rolls inside, leaving some space between them. Cover with plastic wrap and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.

                Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly.

                  In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and spreadable.

                    Drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls and let it melt slightly into them. Serve warm, and enjoy that festive flavor!

                      Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 2 hrs | Servings: 12 rolls