Introduction
Soft and fluffy cinnamon-walnut rolls with cream cheese frosting are a beloved treat that combines the comforting warmth of cinnamon-spiced dough with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts. These rolls are renowned for their tender, airy texture, which comes from a rich yeast dough made with milk, butter, and eggs, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The addition of chopped walnuts provides a delightful contrast in texture and a nutty depth that elevates the classic cinnamon roll to a new level.
What truly makes these rolls special is the luscious cream cheese frosting that crowns them. Its creamy tanginess perfectly balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar filling, creating a harmony of flavors that is both indulgent and comforting. Serving these rolls warm enhances their softness and allows the frosting to gently melt over the spirals, making each bite irresistibly rich and flavorful.
This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert, and offers a homemade touch that is sure to impress family and friends. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, these cinnamon-walnut rolls deliver a satisfying treat that combines tradition with a nutty twist.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 roll, approximate values):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
Ingredients
- Dough: 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet), 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F), ⅓ cup granulated sugar, 1 ½ tsp salt, 2 large eggs (room temperature), ½ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled), optional 2 tbsp plain yogurt or 1 tbsp vegetable oil for extra softness
- Filling: ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tbsp ground cinnamon, 1 cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted)
- Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 oz cream cheese (softened), ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted), 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1-2 tbsp milk (optional for consistency)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tbsp sugar. Let it activate for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, and yogurt or oil if using.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture and egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir to form a sticky dough.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped toasted walnuts.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 15×24 inch rectangle.
- Spread the cinnamon-walnut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seam to seal.
- Cut the roll into 12 equal pieces and place them cut side up in a greased baking dish, spaced slightly apart.
- Cover the rolls loosely and let them rise again for about 1 hour until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.
- While rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat until fluffy. Add milk a little at a time until desired spreading consistency is reached.
- Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls just after they come out of the oven to allow it to melt slightly.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture or all-purpose flour for softer rolls.
- Do not over-flour the dough; it should remain slightly tacky to stay soft and fluffy.
- Toast walnuts lightly in a dry pan to enhance their flavor before adding to filling.
- For extra fluffy rolls, allow both rises to complete fully without rushing.
- If you prefer a sweeter or spicier filling, increase brown sugar or cinnamon to taste.
- Try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or chopped dates to the filling for a richer flavor.
- For convenience, you can refrigerate the dough or shaped rolls overnight to develop flavor and bake fresh in the morning.
- If rolls brown too quickly in the oven, tent loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Brush rolls with melted butter immediately after baking to keep the crust soft and flavorful.
- Warm the cream cheese frosting slightly if too thick to spread easily, but avoid heating too much to prevent melting the rolls.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon-walnut rolls covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to one week. Rolls freeze well before baking; wrap them tightly and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, allow to rise for about an hour, and bake as usual.
To reheat, warm rolls gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F / 150°C) wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes to restore their softness and freshness. Add extra frosting after reheating if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it either before the first rise or after shaping the rolls. Refrigerating overnight slows fermentation and enhances flavor. Just allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise fully before baking.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting dry?
Use ingredients like milk, butter, and egg in the dough to keep it moist and soft. Avoid overbaking by checking rolls early. Brushing with melted butter after baking also helps maintain softness.
Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Absolutely. Pecans or almonds work well and provide a similar crunch and flavor. Toast the nuts lightly before adding to the filling to bring out their aroma.
Is cream cheese frosting necessary?
While not essential, cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet rolls and complements the cinnamon and walnut flavors beautifully. You can substitute with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk if preferred.
