Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp (16g) bread flour
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
  • 1 1/4 cups (160g) bread flour
  • 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
  • 1 tsp (3g) instant yeast
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) warm whole milk
  • 1 large (50g) room temperature egg
  • 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, very soft
  • 1/3 cup (65g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tbsp (8g) ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp (2g) cornstarch
  • 2 oz (56g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) heavy cream

Instructions:

  1. Create the Tangzhong starter by whisking 2 tbsp bread flour and 1/4 cup milk in a small saucepan over medium heat; stir constantly until a smooth paste forms, then let cool slightly.
  2. Combine warm milk and instant yeast in a bowl, then mix in the cooled Tangzhong, egg, sugar, and salt.
  3. Gradually add bread flour and knead on medium-low speed for 5-7 minutes, incorporating softened butter during the final 2 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for approximately 60 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. Roll the dough into an 8x12 inch rectangle, spread with softened butter, and sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch.
  6. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 4 to 6 equal rolls using dental floss or a serrated knife.
  7. Place rolls in an 8x8 inch baking pan, let rise again for 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
  8. Whisk together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream until smooth, then frost the rolls while still slightly warm.