Introduction:
Start your day on a sweet note with these irresistible cinnamon-walnut rolls! Baked to soft, fluffy perfection and generously swirled with a fragrant cinnamon-walnut filling, then crowned with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a comforting treat.
⏱ Prep Time: 30 minutes
⏲ Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (first rise) + 30 minutes (second rise)
🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 50 minutes
🍽 Servings: 12 rolls
🔥 Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal (approx.)
🍥 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 🥣 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 🍬 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🍞 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 🥛 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 🧈 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 🥚 2 large eggs, at room temperature
For the Filling:
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🍯 1 cup brown sugar
- 🌰 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 🌰 1 cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 🍰 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 🧈 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🍬 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 🍦 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 🧂 A pinch of salt
📝 Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts until evenly mixed.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 16 x 12 inches.
- Evenly spread the cinnamon-walnut filling over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
- With a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise & Bake:
- Place the rolls, cut side up, into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the centers are cooked through.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until the frosting is light and creamy.
- Finish & Serve:
- Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Drizzle or spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.
- Serve and enjoy these soft, fluffy, and utterly indulgent treats!
🤩 Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls:
- Heavenly Texture: Soft, fluffy dough with a delicate, buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
- Flavor Explosion: The perfect balance of warm cinnamon, crunchy walnuts, and rich cream cheese frosting makes every bite irresistible.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting afternoon treat.
- Homemade Delight: Nothing beats the aroma and satisfaction of fresh-baked rolls made with love!
💡 Tips:
- Warm Ingredients: Ensure the milk and eggs are at room temperature to help activate the yeast for a better rise.
- Even Filling: Spread the filling evenly over the dough to achieve consistent flavor in every roll.
- Customize: Add a handful of raisins or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the filling for a unique twist.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave for a warm treat.
- Extra Frosting: If you love frosting, feel free to double the cream cheese mixture for a more decadent topping.
Enjoy your Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting—a warm, inviting treat that makes every day a little sweeter!