Sugar Cookie Cinnamon Rolls

Steps12

1. 1

   Step 1. Cook the tangzhong

   Whisk together the milk and flour in a small pan over medium-low heat until it thickens into a paste. Let cool slightly before adding to the dough.

2. 2

   Step 2. Proof the yeast

   5 min

   Mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast together and let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

3. 3

   Step 3. Mix the dough

   Add the melted butter, egg, egg yolk, and tangzhong and mix until combined. Add the milk powder and salt, then gradually add the flour, starting with 3 cups and adding more as needed until you have a soft, smooth dough.

   If kneading by hand, try not to add too much extra flour. Lightly oil your hands and work surface if needed.

   Almond extractCake batter extractBread flour
4. 4

   Step 4. Let the dough rise

   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, being careful not to overproof.

5. 5

   Step 5. Make the cookie filling

   Cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in the egg, vanilla, almond extract, and butter extract. Gradually add the flour and salt until a soft cookie dough forms.

   Vanilla extract
6. 6

   Step 6. Fill the dough

   Roll the risen dough into a rectangle about ¾ inch thick. Spread the sugar cookie dough evenly over the surface and sprinkle Christmas nonpareils over the sugar cookie layer.

   Cinnamon
7. 7

   Step 7. Shape the rolls

   Cut the dough into approximately 12 strips, roll each strip individually, and arrange the rolls in a lined baking dish.

8. 8

   Step 8. Let the rolls rise

   30 min

   Cover and let rise again for about 25–35 minutes, until slightly puffier. Don't let them overproof.

9. 9

   Step 9. Brush the rolls

   Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with heavy cream before baking.

10. 10

    Step 10. Bake the rolls

    27m 30s

    Bake at 350°F for about 25–30 minutes, or until cooked through.

    Baking time may vary depending on your oven. If they brown too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
11. 11

    Step 11. Make the frosting

    Whip the softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste, almond extract, and butter extract, and mix until smooth and fluffy, adding heavy cream as needed to reach your desired consistency.

12. 12

    Step 12. Frost the rolls

    Spread the frosting over the slightly warm rolls and finish with extra Christmas sprinkles.

    Christmas nonpareils