Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients:

1 1/4 c very warm water (should feel about as warm as a hot shower)
1 1/2 Tbs yeast
1/4 c sugar

1 whole egg plus 1 yolk
1/2 Tbs salt
1/4 c oil
4-5 c flour

1/4 c butter, melted
1 c brown sugar
2 Tbs cinnamon
1/2 c cinnamon chips (optional)

4 oz Cream Cheese (low fat is ok)
1/4 c butter, softened
1 c powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1-3 Tbs milk, to desired consistency

Directions:

1. Combine the first 3 ingredients in a large mixing bowl and allow the yeast to proof for 5-10 minutes until it looks foamy (if you have a kitchenaid, use that bowl)

2. Add the eggs, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture. Slowly add the flour. The dough should be soft, but pulling away from the edge of the bowl.

3. Beat or knead the dough for 10 minutes.

4. Allow dough to rise for 40 minutes in a draft-free place.

5. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, 1/4 - 1/2 inch thick. Cover the dough evenly in melted butter. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cinnamon chips.

6. Roll the dough into a long log shape (rolling it hot dog way rather than hamburger way)

7. Slice into 1-2 inch thick discs and place in a greased pan (round cake or square pans work great).

8. Allow rolls to sit for 15-20 minutes

9. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Watch them close! You want them light golden brown but done in the middle (I definitely over-cooked them a little last night because...I wasn't watching them)

10. While the rolls are baking, combine the frosting ingredients. Smother on top shortly after pulling the rolls out of the oven.

Note: This dough makes REALLY good dinner rolls. After step 4, roll the dough 1/2 inch thick. Cut out circles with a cookie cutter or cup. Then dip the dough in butter. Fold the circles in half and pinch them ( half moon shape) and place on a greased cookie sheet. Let rise for 15-20 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.