Description
These Fluffy Cinnamon Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, sweet, and perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made with a tender dough filled with cinnamon sugar and crunchy walnuts, then topped with a rich and creamy frosting, these homemade rolls are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add softened butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add flour and knead for 5–7 minutes, until dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×10 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture and chopped walnuts. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal. Slice into 12 even rolls.
- Bake the rolls: Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
- Make the frosting: In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Add milk if needed to reach a spreadable consistency. Spread frosting over warm rolls and top with extra walnuts if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can make the rolls the night before and refrigerate them after shaping. Let them come to room temperature before baking in the morning.
