Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together and set aside.

In a separate microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine the water, whole milk, and butter slices. Heat the mixture in 10-second increments in the microwave (or over low heat on the stove) until the butter has just melted and the mixture is warm but not hot.

Whisk the room-temperature egg into the warm liquid mixture until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until you achieve a thick, sticky dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Gradually add another cup of flour to the dough mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together into a ball. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface or keep it in the bowl if using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Knead the dough, adding more flour as needed, until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. If you press your finger into the dough, it should spring back.

Cover the dough and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once rested, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 14×10 inch rectangle. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but try to keep the edges as even as possible.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top, spreading it out with your hands to create an even layer. Finally, sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the sugar.

Step 5: Form the Cinnamon Rolls

Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Trim about ½ an inch off each end of the log for more uniform rolls (optional). Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 even pieces.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange the rolls, cut side up, in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 7: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the icing.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Ice the Cinnamon Rolls

While the cinnamon rolls are still warm, spread the cream cheese icing generously over the top. The warmth will cause the icing to melt slightly, creating a delicious, gooey finish.