Salted Caramel Milk Bread Cinnamon Rolls: A Gooey Dream Come True

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk 2 tbsp flour and 1/2 cup milk until smooth. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened to a paste (2-3 minutes). Transfer to a bowl, cover directly with plastic wrap, and cool completely.
2. 2

   Activate Yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir and let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
3. 3

   Mix Dough: Add cooled tangzhong, egg, egg yolk, and ½ tsp salt to yeast mixture. Mix on low until combined. Gradually add 3 ½ cups flour, mixing until shaggy.
4. 4

   Knead Dough: Increase speed to medium-low; knead for 5 minutes. Add ½ cup softened butter, 1 tbsp at a time, incorporating each addition. Increase speed to medium; knead 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic (passes windowpane test).
5. 5

   First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl, transfer dough, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled.
6. 6

   Make Filling: While dough rises, combine ½ cup softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ½ tsp salt in a bowl. Mix until creamy. Stir in ¼ cup homemade salted caramel sauce.
7. 7

   Roll and Fill: Gently punch down dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly, leaving a ½ inch border on one long edge. Roll tightly into a log; pinch seam to seal.
8. 8

   Cut Rolls: Cut log into 12 even, 1.5-inch slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
9. 9

   Second Rise: Arrange rolls in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover loosely and let rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
10. 10

    Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Cool in pan for 10-15 minutes.
11. 11

    Make Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and ¼ cup softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla, pinch of salt, and ¼ cup homemade salted caramel sauce.
12. 12

    Frost and Serve: Generously spread frosting over warm rolls. Serve immediately.