Cinnamon rolls make a morning treat

Last weekend, I did a brunch catering. One of the most popular dishes that I served was the cinnamon rolls, so I decided to share the recipe.

CINNAMON ROLLS

Ingredients

For the dough:

2 cups buttermilk

1⁄2 cup melted butter

1⁄2 cup sugar

1 tablespoon dried yeast

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

For the filling:

1⁄2 cup melted butter

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1-1⁄2 cups brown sugar

For the icing:

1 cup butter

1 cup cream cheese

1 pound powdered sugar

2 tablespoons orange zest

Putting it together

Add all of the dough ingredients to the large bowl of a mixer and process with the dough hook for about five minutes at low speed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set aside in a warm place for about 30 minutes to allow the dough to rise.

Meanwhile, add all the filling ingredients to another bowl and mix until well incorporated.

After the dough has risen, use a rolling pin to flatten it to about 1⁄4-inch thick. Spread the filling evenly over the dough and roll it into a long roll. Slice the roll into 1-inch thick portions. Lay the slices about an inch apart on a well greased baking sheet.

Bake the rolls at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. While the rolls are baking, add the icing ingredients to a small pot. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until well incorporated and the icing is smooth.

When the rolls are done baking, set them aside to cool to room temperature. Top with the icing and enjoy before the kids get to them.

Antonio Villagomez is head chef and owner of Cilantro's restaurant and catering in Yuba City, Calif. Contact him at 530-844-2111. His website is cilantros.us.