Cinnamon Roll Braid with Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulging in a freshly baked Cinnamon Roll Braid with Cream Cheese Frosting transports you straight to a blissful realm of cinnamon-swirled goodness. The intoxicating aroma wafting through your kitchen has the power to evoke memories of cozy family gatherings and warm hugs. As you pull apart the braided spiral, each bite bursts with soft, pillowy dough enveloping a luscious cinnamon filling. Topped with a decadent cream cheese frosting that delicately drips down the sides, this exquisite dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility—perfect for any time you wish to bring a sprinkle of magic into your day.
Have You Ever Had That Craving for Something Sweet?
Think about those moments when you crave a treat that feels both comforting and indulgent. You know, the days when you want to embrace the nostalgia of home-baked goods? What if I told you that a warm, gooey Cinnamon Roll Braid with Cream Cheese Frosting could put a smile on your face and satisfy that sweet tooth all at once? With its eye-catching braid and sumptuous frosting, this dessert is practically irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Prep: Despite its show-stopping appearance, this cinnamon roll braid is surprisingly easy to make.
- Nostalgic Flavors: It conjures fond memories of family traditions and charming bakery visits.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or simply a weekend treat.
- Minimal Ingredients: Using basic pantry staples, you can whip this up quickly and effortlessly.
- Gourmet Vibes: Impress your friends and family with a bakery-quality dessert made at home!
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup whole milk, warmed to 100-110°F
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (for filling)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (for filling)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (for filling)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1 pinch kosher salt (for frosting)
With the ingredients laid out, imagine warm milk mingling with buttery sugar, creating a luscious dough that cradles the sweet, cinnamon-infused filling. It’s a symphony of flavors that not only tastes divine but feels like a warm hug in dessert form.
Timing
When it comes to baking this Cinnamon Roll Braid, you’ll find the timing balances indulgence and anticipation beautifully. While it takes as little as two hours from start to finish, you can also savor the slow luxury of letting the dough rise, lending depth to its flavor. Perfect for a weekend morning where you can take your time and enjoy the baking process.
Step-by-Step
1. Dough
Start by combining warm milk with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the milk, whisk gently, and let it sit until it becomes foamy—usually about 5 minutes.
Next, whisk in the eggs until smooth. In a stand mixer, combine the remaining sugar, flour, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture, adding the butter one piece at a time while mixing. Knead on medium speed for 1 minute, then switch to medium-high until the dough is smooth, which should take about 5 minutes.
Brush a bowl with melted butter, place your dough inside, and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise until it has doubled in size—about 1 hour.
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a 12×20 inch rectangle, setting the stage for your masterpiece.
2. Filling
For the heavenly filling, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Spread 3 tablespoons of softened butter over the dough, ensuring an even coating, and then sprinkle the brown sugar mixture lavishly over the butter.
3. Folding, Cutting, and Baking
Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by spraying it lightly with cooking spray. Now, fold the dough over itself two-thirds of the way across. Spread the remaining butter and brown sugar mixture evenly over the folded section, then fold the remaining dough over the top.
Cut the dough into 12 strips, about 1 1/2 inches wide. Make two cuts in each strip, almost reaching the top but leave the end intact. Braid the three sections together, then roll the braided dough into a circle, nestling it into your baking dish.
Repeat with any remaining dough. Cover the dish and let it rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
While waiting, preheat your oven to 350°F. Once doubled, brush the braid with a beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting
When your rolls are nearly done baking, it’s time to create that luscious whipped cream cheese frosting. Combine the room-temperature cream cheese, butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy.
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, spread the frosting generously over the warm surface. The heat of the rolls will melt the frosting ever so slightly, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
Nutritional Information
A single serving of this delightful Cinnamon Roll Braid typically contains about 300-400 calories, depending largely on frosting application and size of rolls. While you may enjoy an occasional indulgence, remember that this sweet treat is all about balance.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor, consider these swaps:
- Low-sugar Options: Use coconut sugar or a low-calorie sweetener in place of granulated and brown sugar.
- Dairy-Free Swaps: Substitute almond or oat milk for the whole milk, and use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Serving Suggestions
This Cinnamon Roll Braid shines on its own, but it can also be elevated when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a steaming cup of coffee. Perfect for festive occasions, holiday brunches, or simply a cozy family dessert night, it fits in seamlessly anywhere sweet treats are welcome.
Common Mistakes
To ensure your baking adventure goes smoothly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Overbaking: Watch the rolls closely towards the end of baking. An overbaked cinnamon roll loses its gooey center and can become dry.
- Texture Issues: Flour measurements should be accurate—using too much can lead to dense rolls.
- Messes: When rolling and cutting the dough, be gentle to minimize spills.
Storing Tips
If you find yourself with leftover Cinnamon Roll Braid, don’t despair! You can freeze portions for a lazy day treat. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
To reheat, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them up in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain that fresh-baked feel.
Tempt Yourself to Bake It ASAP
With its warmth, sweetness, and mouthwatering aroma, this Cinnamon Roll Braid with Cream Cheese Frosting is just the kind of indulgence your day needs. Whether for a family gathering or a much-deserved treat for yourself, the only question left is: When are you going to bake it? Don’t wait too long!
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough, let it rise, punch it down, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours; just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
2. Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I add nuts to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add delightful crunch and extra flavor to the filling.
4. How do I know when my rolls are done baking?
They should be golden brown and have a slightly firm touch. Internal temperature should reach 190°F when measured with a food thermometer.
5. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and the milk temperature is correct. You can also try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area to help it rise.
Baking this Cinnamon Roll Braid is not just about creating dessert; it’s about crafting an experience that nurtures both body and soul. Dive in and enjoy!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Braid with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a freshly baked Cinnamon Roll Braid drizzled with luscious cream cheese frosting. This delightful dessert envelops a sweet cinnamon filling within soft, pillowy dough, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup whole milk, warmed to 100-110°F
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (for filling)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (for filling)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (for filling)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1 pinch kosher salt (for frosting)
Instructions
- Combine warm milk with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the milk, whisk gently, and let it sit until foamy—about 5 minutes.
- Whisk in the eggs until smooth. Combine remaining sugar, flour, and salt in a stand mixer. Pour in the yeast mixture, add butter one piece at a time while mixing. Knead at medium speed for 1 minute, then increase to medium-high until smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Brush a bowl with melted butter, place dough inside, cover with plastic wrap. Let rise until doubled in size—around 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough, roll it into a 12×20 inch rectangle.
- For the filling, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Spread 3 tablespoons of softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over it.
- Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Fold the dough over itself two-thirds across, spread remaining butter and brown sugar mixture on the folded section, then fold remaining dough over the top.
- Cut the dough into 12 strips, braid the sections together, then roll into a circle in the baking dish. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush braid with a beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the frosting, combine cream cheese, butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Beat until smooth. Spread over warm rolls out of the oven.
Notes
If you have leftovers, you can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
