These Sweet Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon, brown sugar, and crunchy walnuts. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they make the perfect indulgent breakfast or dessert. Follow this easy recipe to create bakery-style cinnamon rolls at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts.
3. Roll Out the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 16x12 inches) on a floured surface.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll and Slice
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
5. Arrange and Proof
- Place the rolls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spacing them slightly apart.
- Cover with a towel and let them rise for 30–45 minutes, or until puffed.
6. Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
8. Frost and Serve
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey, nutty, cinnamon goodness.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Warm Ingredients: Ensure milk and butter are warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Even Filling: Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Soft Rolls: Avoid overbaking to keep the rolls soft and tender.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
Variations
- Pecan Substitute: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for added warmth.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top with caramel sauce instead of frosting for a decadent twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5–10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Rolls
- Soft and Fluffy: The perfect texture for pulling apart and savoring.
- Nutty Sweetness: Walnuts add crunch and balance the sweetness.
- Creamy Frosting: The tangy cream cheese topping is irresistible.
These Sweet Cinnamon Rolls with Walnuts and Cream Cheese Frosting are a true treat that’s worth the effort. Share them with loved ones, or enjoy them all to yourself—no judgment! 🥯✨
