There is something incredibly comforting and delicious about waking up to a batch of warm, homemade Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This classic treat brings together soft, airy dough swirled with cinnamon and crunchy walnuts, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into every bite. The balance of spicy sweetness and creamy tang creates an indulgent experience that’s perfect for special mornings, gathering with friends, or simply treating yourself to an irresistible delight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, these cinnamon rolls will quickly become your new favorite go-to for cozy breakfasts and brunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with these rolls is a breeze because the ingredients are beautifully simple yet each plays a crucial role. From the richness of butter to the warmth of cinnamon and the slight crunch of walnuts, every element adds its own magic to the final result.
- Warm milk (1 cup, 110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and helps create that tender dough texture.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The silent hero that makes your rolls rise and fluff up perfectly.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Infuses richness and ensures soft, moist rolls.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp + 2 tbsp for filling): Provides that warm, spicy signature flavor throughout the dough and filling.
- All-purpose flour (4 cups): Forms the sturdy yet tender base of the dough.
- Large egg (1): Adds structure and richness to the dough.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup for filling + 1/4 cup for frosting): Used for the gooey filling and creamy frosting.
- Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Sweet and slightly caramelized flavor in the cinnamon filling.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Adds crunch and a toasty nuttiness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Creates a smooth, tangy frosting that’s the perfect finishing touch.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting to just the right consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a fragrant depth to the frosting.
- Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
How to Make Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by waking up your yeast in warm milk mixed with sugar, letting it bubble into a frothy, lively combination. This activation is essential because it’s what gives your rolls that wonderful rise and fluffiness we all crave. Then, blend the flour, cinnamon, salt, and egg in a large bowl before mixing in your yeast mixture and melted butter. Kneading the dough until smooth and elastic will take about 5 to 7 minutes — it’s a perfect excuse to use your hands and feel the transformation from simple ingredients into soft dough.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Once kneaded, shape your dough into a ball and cover it with a cozy cloth. Find a warm spot in your kitchen and let it relax and rise for about an hour to an hour and a half. The dough will nearly double in size, doubling your excitement too!
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While that dough is happily rising, whip together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and if you’re a nut fan, the lovely crunch of chopped walnuts. This mixture is the heart of your rolls — it’s the sweet, spicy, and nutty layer that makes each bite a flavor celebration.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Once your dough is ready, punch it down gently to release the air pockets, then roll it out on a floured surface into a neat rectangle, about 16 by 12 inches. Spread your cinnamon-walnut filling evenly over the dough, making sure to leave a small border so the filling doesn’t spill out. Roll the rectangle up tightly, sealing the edges, and slice into 12 equal rolls. Nestle them into a greased baking dish, cover, and let them puff up again for 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise builds that irresistible fluffiness that makes this Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe so special.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the rolls in for 25 to 30 minutes. The smell filling your kitchen at this point will be nothing short of heavenly, with golden brown rolls peeking out, ready to be transformed by luscious frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls are baking, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly spreadable. This frosting isn’t just a topping; it’s the creamy canvas that elevates these rolls into a decadent treat.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
As soon as the rolls come out and have cooled just enough so they won’t melt your frosting into a puddle, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each warm swirl. The frosting will gently soften and seep into the warm rolls, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience you won’t forget.
How to Serve Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle some toasted chopped walnuts or a pinch of ground cinnamon across the frosted rolls. This simple garnish adds visual appeal and a burst of nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting.
Side Dishes
Pairing these delightful rolls with fresh fruit or a bright berry compote can balance their sweetness wonderfully. For a cozy brunch, a cup of robust coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the rolls’ richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the rolls stacked on a rustic wooden board or nestled in a charming basket lined with a linen napkin. You can drizzle a little extra melted butter mixed with brown sugar on top right after baking for added gloss and indulgence. If you’re feeling playful, a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds a snowy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and that’s a wonderful problem to have!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Rewarm gently to bring back the fresh-baked softness and glory.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them in the baking dish, tightly covered with plastic wrap and foil, for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and let rise until doubled before baking. Alternatively, baked rolls can be frozen after cooling, wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.
Reheating
Warm leftover rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. For the full effect, add a little extra cream cheese frosting after reheating — it’s almost like fresh from the oven all over again!
FAQs
Can I use different nuts besides walnuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work beautifully and add their own distinctive crunch and flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely to mix well with the cinnamon sugar filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delightful.
How can I tell if my yeast is still good?
If your yeast mixture doesn’t get frothy within 10 minutes of mixing with warm milk and sugar, it’s time to get fresh yeast. Using active yeast ensures your rolls rise perfectly fluffy.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Definitely! After the first rise, punch down the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, let it come to room temperature, roll out, fill, and proceed with the recipe.
What is the best way to store leftover frosting?
Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir to refresh its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a try soon. Its fluffy, buttery, cinnamon-spiced rolls smothered in rich cream cheese frosting are a timeless treat that brings warmth and joy to any table. Baking these from scratch is such a rewarding experience, and sharing them with loved ones just makes it that much sweeter. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor every delightful bite!
Print
Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These fluffy cinnamon-walnut rolls are a delightful homemade treat, featuring a soft yeast dough filled with a cinnamon-sugar and walnut mixture, baked to golden perfection and topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or a special dessert, these rolls combine warm spices and a tender crumb for irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, ground cinnamon, salt, and egg. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until combined.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface or in the bowl until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
- First Proof: Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped walnuts if using.
- Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar-walnut filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seam to seal. Cut the roll into 12 equal slices.
- Second Proof: Place the rolls cut side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Prepare Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and well combined.
- Frost and Serve: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Optional walnuts add crunch and flavor but can be omitted for nut allergies.
- The rolls are best served warm on the day they are baked but can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days.
- Leftovers can be reheated briefly in the microwave or oven for a fresh-baked taste.
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
