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Birthday Cake Cinnamon Rolls

A delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, these Birthday Cake Cinnamon Rolls combine warm, gooey rolls with the festive flavors of birthday cake, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 9 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2/3 cup whole milk, warmed Using warmed milk gives the yeast a boost to activate; always check the temperature to ensure it's not too hot!
  • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided This sweetness helps to activate the yeast and adds flavor to the dough.
  • 1 envelope active dry yeast Yeast is what makes your rolls rise and become fluffy!
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation into the dough.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened A key ingredient for a rich flavor and soft texture.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure while being light enough for fluffy rolls.
  • 1 cup bread flour Enhances texture and chewiness, beneficial for the perfect roll.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Filling
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Creamy and rich, this will hold the filling together beautifully.
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed For the rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar Adds a bit more sweetness and texture.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Prevents the filling from being too gooey.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract For that delicious cake flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt To enhance the sweetness and overall flavor.
  • 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles Because we eat with our eyes first — and these make everything more fun!
For the Frosting
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened Adds tang and creaminess to your frosting.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened For richness.
  • 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar Ensures a sweet and luscious frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A hint of flavor.
  • 1 pinch kosher salt Balances the sweetness.
  • Rainbow sprinkles, for garnish To sprinkle joy on top!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, add warm milk (make sure it's between 100-110°F), 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Mix briefly and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
  2. Make the Dough: Add the eggs, softened butter, remaining sugar, both flours, and salt to the activated yeast. Mix with a dough hook on low speed until combined, then increase to medium speed and knead until smooth (about 5 minutes).
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
  4. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Cooking
  1. Roll It Out: Once the dough has doubled, roll it out onto a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, and sparsely sprinkle rainbow sprinkles on top.
  2. Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 9 equal rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
  3. Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise again until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
  4. Bake: Once risen, bake the rolls for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Finishing
  1. Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by mixing cream cheese, softened butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  2. Frost and Garnish: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, spread frosting over the warm rolls and top with additional rainbow sprinkles.

Notes

These rolls can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or frozen for up to 2 months. Feel free to use non-dairy milk, flaxseed mixture for eggs, and vegan alternatives for a vegan option.