How to Make Bunny Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough:

* 1 3/4 tsp (7g) active dry yeast

* 2 cups (475ml) milk, lukewarm

* 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

* 2 tsp (10ml) vanilla extract

* 1 tbsp (15ml) vegetable oil

* 3 1/4 to 3 3/4 cups (400-470g) all-purpose flour, divided

* 1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

* 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

* 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar

* 2 tsp ground cinnamon

* 1/4 cup (50g) chopped pecans

For the Glaze:

* 1 1/2 cups (225g) confectioner's sugar

* 1 tbsp (15ml) milk

* 1/2 tsp (2ml) vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the yeast, lukewarm milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Let sit for 5 minutes, until the yeast is foamy.

2. Add 3 1/4 cups of the flour and the salt to the bowl. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together and forms a ball. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.

4. Grease a large bowl with cooking spray. Place the dough in the bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll each half out into a 12x9-inch (30x23-cm) rectangle.

3. Spread half of the filling over each rectangle of dough. Starting from the long side, roll up the dough tightly. Pinch the edges to seal.

4. Cut each rope of dough into 12 rolls.

5. Place the rolls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches (5 cm) apart.

6. Let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, until they are puffy.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

1. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until they are golden brown.

2. Let the rolls cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioner's sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled rolls.

3. Enjoy!