01 -
Combine flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Mix in warm milk, softened butter, and egg until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
02 -
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 60–90 minutes.
03 -
Roll out risen dough on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle approximately 30×40 cm.
04 -
Spread softened butter over the dough. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered surface.
05 -
Roll the dough tightly from the longer edge into a log. Cut into 12 even slices with a sharp knife.
06 -
Use leftover dough to form thin strips. Shape these into two long 'U's or ropes for each roll, then pinch or twist onto the top of each to create ears.
07 -
Arrange shaped rolls, cut side up, on a lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until noticeably puffy.
08 -
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Bake buns for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before decorating.
09 -
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix, adding milk gradually, until a spreadable icing forms.
10 -
Generously frost cooled buns, accentuating the 'ears.' Optionally, add mini chocolate chips for eyes, a pink candy or sprinkle for nose, and coconut flakes for fluff.