Indulge in the perfect morning treat with these Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting. The dough is light and airy, with just the right amount of sweetness. These rolls are filled with a delightful blend of cinnamon and crushed walnuts, then baked to golden perfection. Once they’ve cooled slightly, they’re generously topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a dessert to impress, these cinnamon-walnut rolls are sure to become a favorite.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Fluffy Dough: The dough for these rolls is soft, tender, and light, thanks to the combination of yeast and the right kneading technique. The milk, egg, and oil contribute to the dough’s richness and soft texture, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- Cinnamon-Walnut Filling: The cinnamon and sugar filling pairs perfectly with the crunch of walnuts, providing a delightful contrast to the softness of the dough. The melted butter binds everything together, ensuring the rolls stay moist and flavorful.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: The cream cheese frosting is a rich, tangy topping that perfectly balances the sweetness of the rolls. The frosting is smooth and easy to spread, and it adds a layer of indulgence to each bite.
- Ease of Preparation: While these rolls require some time for rising and baking, the steps are straightforward. The ingredients are simple and readily available, making this recipe easy to follow for even beginners.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe:
For the Dough:
- 7 Tbsp (80g) sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and feeds the yeast for better rise.
- 1 tsp (4g) dry yeast: The key ingredient to make the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 1 cup (250ml) lukewarm milk: Helps activate the yeast and softens the dough.
- 1 egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
- 4 cups (500g) flour: Provides the bulk of the dough’s structure.
- 1 tsp (4g) salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the sweetness.
For the Filling:
- 1/3 cup (80g) butter: Adds richness and binds the filling ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup (80g) sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps caramelize the rolls.
- Cinnamon: Provides that classic warm, spiced flavor we associate with cinnamon rolls. Add to taste for your desired level of flavor.
- 1/2 cup (100g) crushed walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, making the rolls even more decadent.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 1/4 cups (300g) cream cheese: The base of the frosting, providing a smooth, tangy flavor.
- 3 Tbsp milk: Helps thin out the frosting and make it spreadable.
- 1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it too heavy.
How To Make Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and dry yeast. Add the lukewarm milk and stir until the yeast dissolves. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: To the yeast mixture, add the egg and vegetable oil. Stir to combine.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave, melt the butter for the filling. Let it cool slightly before using.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. Add the crushed walnuts to this mixture, and stir well.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the Filling: Brush the melted butter over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar-walnut mixture evenly across the surface.
- Roll the Dough: Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 9 equal parts, each about 1 1/2 inches wide.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Arrange the Rolls: Place the cinnamon-walnut rolls in the prepared pan, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 20 minutes.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the rolls for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Blend Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, milk, and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
Step 6: Frost the Rolls
Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. You can also drizzle extra frosting on individual rolls as desired.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success:
- Use Lukewarm Milk: Ensure the milk is lukewarm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Knead the Dough Properly: Kneading is essential for achieving that soft, fluffy texture. Knead until the dough feels smooth and elastic.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge, and then proceed with shaping and baking the rolls the next day.
- Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Allowing the rolls to rise for the second time before baking ensures they bake up fluffy and tender.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with Coffee or Tea: These rolls are perfect with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The richness of the cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with a strong brew.
- Great for Breakfast or Brunch: These rolls make a perfect breakfast or brunch treat, especially with a side of fresh fruit like berries or orange slices for added freshness.
- Top with Extra Walnuts: For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle more crushed walnuts on top of the frosting or serve alongside the rolls.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Enjoy these Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh out of the oven for a sweet, satisfying treat! Perfect for a cozy morning or as a dessert for a special occasion.