Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, lukewarm (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Combine lukewarm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine the yeast mixture, remaining sugar, salt, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes (or 7-10 minutes by hand) until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
  6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
  7. Tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices.
  8. Arrange the slices in the prepared baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  10. While the buns are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until desired consistency is reached.
  11. Let the buns cool slightly before frosting generously. Serve warm and enjoy!