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Cozy Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe with Creamy Icing

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A charming heart-shaped cinnamon roll cake with soft, tender dough and luscious creamy icing, perfect for cozy breakfasts or sweet afternoon treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (about 440g)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (7g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed (240ml)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (57g)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed (150g)
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (57g)
  • Pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves (optional)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (115g)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (28g)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (120g)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (15-30ml)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F/43°C) with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together flour and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and the foamy yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Knead by hand on a floured surface or use a dough hook for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the filling: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional spices in a small bowl until well combined.
  6. Roll out the dough: Punch the dough down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
  7. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  8. Shape the rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
  9. Arrange in pan: Grease the heart-shaped pan well. Place the rolls cut-side up, arranging them snugly to form the heart shape. Cover and let rise for 30-40 minutes until puffy.
  10. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  11. Make the icing: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, then thin with milk or cream until spreadable.
  12. Cool and ice: Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan, then drizzle or spread the creamy icing generously over the top.

Notes

If icing is too thick, add a splash more milk but avoid making it too runny. Tent cake edges with foil if browning too fast. Use fresh yeast for best rise. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon roll cake, heart-shaped cake, creamy icing, cinnamon rolls, breakfast cake, cozy dessert

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/cozy-heart-shaped-cinnamon-roll-cake-recipe-with-creamy-icing-tips/