Frosted Tahini Cinnamon Buns

Directions

Part 1: Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of bread flour, salt, and sugar. Set aside.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and milk. Microwave for about 45 seconds, or until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (not hot to the touch). Stir in the instant yeast and let it sit for 1–2 minutes to dissolve.

3. Pour the milk mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the tahini and egg, and mix until dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.

4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes OR use an electric stand mixer with the dough hook attachment. Add a little more flour if the dough feels too sticky.

5. Once the dough forms into a ball, allow it to rest uncovered, for about 10 minutes until it begins to rise.

6. Place dough onto a well-floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle about 10x15 inches in size.

Part 2: Filling

1. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking pan and set aside. Alternatively, use two 9-inch cake pans.

2. To make the filling, mix together the brown sugar, tahini, and cinnamon until well combined.

3. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar-tahini-cinnamon filling evenly on top of the butter.

4.  Spread the brown sugar filling evenly over the butter.

5. Starting from the long side of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log. If it stretches or unravels, gently pinch the ends and tuck them under to keep the roll tight and compact.

6. Cut the log into 1-inch pieces using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss. It should yield 10-12 rolls.

7. Place cinnamon buns flat side down into the greased baking dish and cover with a warm towel. Allow them to rise for about 1 hour until the rolls have doubled in size.

Part 3: Baking

1. Preheat oven to 350℉.

2. Once the rolls have finished rising and the oven is preheated, gently pour the heavy cream over the tops of the rolls. Bake for 25–27 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the center is set.

3. Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before frosting. 

Part 4: Frosting

1. While the rolls bake, make the frosting.

2. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, your tahini of choice, and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer to beat until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.

3. Spread the frosting over the warm (not hot!) cinnamon buns and devour!