Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are indulgently sweet, filled with a rich cinnamon-walnut mixture, and topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
Soft Dough: The combination of lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast creates a perfectly risen dough that stays fluffy and tender.
Nutty Filling: Walnuts add a delightful crunch that complements the sweet cinnamon filling.
Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting ties everything together with its tangy-sweet richness.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the rolls the night before and bake them fresh in the morning.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
For the Dough:
7 Tbsp (80g) sugar
1 tsp (4g) dry yeast
1 cup (250ml) lukewarm milk
1 egg
2 Tbsp vegetable oil
4 cups (500g) flour
1 tsp (4g) salt
For the Filling:
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
2 Tbsp (15g) ground cinnamon
4 Tbsp (60g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (50g) finely chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
2 Tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
How to Make Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in lukewarm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Add the egg, vegetable oil, and salt to the yeast mixture and whisk until combined.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Scatter the chopped walnuts over the filling.
Roll and Slice:
Starting from the longer edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Slice the log into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Second Rise:
Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them. Cover with a towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Prepare the Frosting:
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
Frost and Serve:
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips for Recipe Success
Check Your Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by testing it in warm milk with sugar. If it doesn’t foam, start with fresh yeast.
Even Slicing: Use unflavored dental floss for cleanly slicing the rolls without squishing the dough.
Overnight Option: Prep the rolls, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts if you prefer plain cinnamon rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Breakfast or Brunch: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Special Occasions: Perfect for holiday mornings or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
FAQs
Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Yes! Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and allow to rise before baking.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or make a simple glaze using powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a warm treat.
Serving and Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5-2 hours
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2.5-3 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Final Thoughts
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are an irresistible treat that’s worth every moment of preparation. The fluffy dough, rich cinnamon filling, crunchy walnuts, and luscious frosting combine to create a bakery-quality experience right in your kitchen. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!