Cinnamon Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft, fluffy, and filled with a sweet cinnamon walnut filling, these cinnamon rolls are topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for any occasion, they will surely become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious treats from scratch!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

7 tbsp (80g) sugar
1 tsp (4g) dried yeast

1 cup (250ml) warm milk
1 egg
2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tsp (4g) salt
4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

⅓ cup (80g) melted butter

½ cup (80g) sugar
1 tsp cinnamon (or to taste)
½ cup (200g) chopped walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 ¼ cups (200g) cream cheese, softened
3 tbsp milk
½ cup (50g) powdered sugar

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 250
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 12g
Sugar: 15g

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a large bowl, combine the sugar and dried yeast. Pour in the warm milk (make sure it’s lukewarm, not too hot), and allow the mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. The milk should be warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it kills the yeast cells.

Once the mixture becomes frothy, add the egg, vegetable oil, flour, and salt. Mix everything until a sticky dough forms. Now, transfer the dough onto a floured surface and begin kneading. Work the dough for 8 to 10 minutes, stretching and folding until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon walnut filling. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the cinnamon is evenly distributed. Then, add the chopped walnuts, mixing until the walnuts are evenly incorporated. Set this filling mixture aside for assembly.

Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air pockets. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangular shape, about ¼ inch thick.

Spread the cinnamon walnut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, ensuring that the filling stays inside. Slice the dough into 9 equal pieces, each about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.

Grease a baking pan (9×9 inches works well) and arrange the rolls inside, leaving some space between them for expansion. Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 20 minutes.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the pan with the rolls into the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the milk and powdered sugar, mixing well until the frosting becomes smooth and spreadable.

Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting over the top. The frosting will melt slightly into the warm rolls, creating a deliciously creamy finish.

For an extra touch, garnish the frosted rolls with additional chopped walnuts.

Tips for Perfect Rolls

Activate the Yeast Properly: Make sure the milk is warm but not hot. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, and your rolls won’t rise properly.
Rising Conditions: Place the dough in a warm, draft-free environment for the best rise. If it’s cold in your kitchen, try turning the oven on for a minute, then turn it off and place the dough inside to rise.
Don’t Skip Kneading: Kneading the dough is essential to develop the gluten, which helps give the rolls their soft, chewy texture. Take your time to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Frosting Tip: Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting them. If the rolls are too hot, the frosting may melt and become too runny.
Storage Tip: These rolls can be stored for several days, making them a great make-ahead treat!

How to Store Cinnamon Walnut Rolls

Room Temperature: Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh.
Refrigerator: If you prefer longer storage, place the rolls in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Warm them up in the microwave before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: These rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The cinnamon and sugar filling is perfectly balanced with the nutty crunch of walnuts. Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, these rolls are irresistible!
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these rolls are beginner-friendly yet impressive enough for any occasion.
Versatile: Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these cinnamon walnut rolls are a treat everyone will enjoy.
Family Favorite: These rolls are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination of cinnamon, walnuts, and frosting makes them a comforting, indulgent treat for all ages.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and even assemble the rolls the night before. Just refrigerate the assembled rolls overnight and bake them fresh in the morning.

Can I use a different type of nut in the filling?

Absolutely! If you prefer pecans or almonds, feel free to substitute those for the walnuts. The flavor and texture may change slightly, but they will still taste amazing.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top, and you can insert a toothpick into the center of one to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the rolls are baked through.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar by half and adjust the milk for your desired consistency. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Walnut Rolls are the ultimate indulgence, combining a soft, fluffy dough with a sweet cinnamon walnut filling and a creamy frosting. Whether you’re baking them for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these rolls are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have freshly baked, homemade rolls that are better than anything you can buy at the store. Enjoy baking these treats and share them with your loved ones!