Delicious Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and flavor of freshly baked Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting. These rolls are the perfect treat for breakfast or dessert, with soft, fluffy dough wrapped around a rich cinnamon-walnut filling and topped with creamy, tangy frosting. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create bakery-quality cinnamon rolls at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp salt

For the Cinnamon-Walnut Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup finely chopped walnuts
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center for the wet ingredients.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter and eggs. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, followed by the yeast mixture.

4. Knead the Dough: Using a dough hook or by hand, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.

5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon-Walnut Filling

1. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Set aside.

2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.

3. Spread the Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-walnut mixture on top, ensuring an even layer.

4. Roll the Dough: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal the edges.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Rolls

1. Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the rolled dough into 1 ½-inch thick slices. You should get about 12 rolls.

2. Arrange the Rolls: Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving some space between each roll. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

4. Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Mix the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Continue beating until the frosting is creamy and smooth.

2. Frost the Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. The warm rolls will cause the frosting to melt into every swirl, making them extra delicious.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast package to ensure your rolls rise properly.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before using them in the recipe.
• Chopped Walnuts: If you prefer a finer texture in your filling, you can pulse the walnuts in a food processor before adding them to the cinnamon mixture.
• Overnight Option: If you want to prepare the rolls ahead of time, you can refrigerate the rolls after cutting them. Simply cover them with plastic wrap and let them rise overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature before baking.

Customizations and Variations

• Nut Substitutes: Feel free to substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but check the yeast and other ingredients for gluten traces.
• Spice It Up: For an added twist, you can incorporate a bit of nutmeg or cardamom into the filling for extra warmth.

Pairing Suggestions

Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are delicious when served warm and paired with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. If you’re serving these rolls for brunch, try offering them alongside fresh fruit and a savory dish like scrambled eggs or bacon for a balanced meal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store these rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are everything you could want in a sweet treat—soft, fluffy, rich, and indulgent. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to impress. With the perfect balance of cinnamon, walnut, and creamy frosting, these rolls are guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Enjoy every bite of these homemade delights, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones!