Delicious Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate breakfast or dessert treat. Soft, buttery, and filled with a rich cinnamon-walnut filling, these rolls are topped with a creamy, tangy frosting that makes them irresistible. Perfect for special occasions, weekend brunches, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and comforting!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a paste.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the filling.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long edge. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
Step 4: Second Rise
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until creamy.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
- Spread the frosting over the warm rolls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Fluffy: The dough is perfectly tender and buttery.
- Rich Filling: A sweet cinnamon-walnut filling adds crunch and flavor.
- Creamy Frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Tips for Success
- Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
- Even Rolling: Roll the dough tightly to create uniform rolls.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake until golden brown but avoid overbaking to keep the rolls soft.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate. Let them rise at room temperature before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Extra Frosting: Offer extra frosting on the side for those who love it extra sweet.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
- Freeze: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 1 month. Thaw, warm, and frost before serving.
Enjoy these Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting—a decadent treat that’s sure to impress!