There’s something irresistible about warm, freshly baked cinnamon rolls. The blend of sweet, fragrant cinnamon with soft dough, paired with the crunch of walnuts and a luscious cream cheese frosting, creates a bite of pure comfort. These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls take it to the next level, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert treat.
The airy dough complements the rich, gooey filling, offering a balance of flavors that feel both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to treat yourself, these rolls are sure to impress!
Ingredients :
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup water (if needed for kneading)
For the Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional for consistency)
Instructions :
1. Preparing the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, stirring to dissolve. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial, as it ensures your yeast is active, giving your rolls their signature fluffiness.
Next, add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or using the dough hook attachment of a stand mixer. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour. Alternatively, if it’s too dry, add a few drops of water.
Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Rolling and Filling: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Now, spread the softened butter evenly across the dough’s surface.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the butter, followed by the chopped walnuts. The walnuts give the rolls a delightful crunch and add to the earthy, spiced flavor profile.
Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut it into 12 even slices using a sharp knife or dental floss for cleaner cuts. Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each one. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
3. Baking the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have puffed up, bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown. The smell of cinnamon filling your kitchen is your cue that these rolls are nearly ready!
4. Preparing the Frosting: While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If the frosting seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Frosting the Rolls: As soon as the cinnamon-walnut rolls come out of the oven, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top while they’re still warm. The heat from the rolls will cause the frosting to melt slightly, seeping into every crevice and enhancing the delicious gooeyness of the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cinnamon-walnut rolls warm, with a cup of coffee or tea. They’re perfect as a breakfast indulgence or a decadent dessert. If you’re making these ahead for a gathering, you can reheat them gently in the oven, and they’ll still be just as soft and fluffy.
Conclusion :
There’s nothing quite like the joy of homemade cinnamon rolls, and these Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting bring a unique twist to the classic. The combination of cinnamon, crunchy walnuts, and tangy cream cheese creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So, treat yourself and your loved ones to these rolls—warm from the oven, they’ll disappear before you know it!
Author : Marie-claude
