Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for greasing)
For the cinnamon filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk (for desired consistency)
Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped walnuts until combined. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Leave a little space between the rolls.
- Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up.
4. Bake the Rolls:
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
- Add milk, a tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired frosting consistency.
6. Frost the Rolls:
- Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled (but still warm), generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the rolls.
7. Serve:
- Serve these soft and fluffy cinnamon-walnut rolls warm, with extra frosting on the side if desired.
These cinnamon rolls are tender, full of cinnamon and walnut goodness, and topped with a sweet and creamy frosting that’s simply irresistible!