Delicious Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat. These rolls are soft, buttery, and packed with a rich cinnamon-walnut filling, topped with a creamy, tangy frosting.
Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
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
- 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.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a paste.
- 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.
- Second Rise:
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until creamy.
- Frost and Serve:
- Spread the frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts or substitute with raisins, pecans, or chocolate chips.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat before serving.