Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls combine tender, buttery dough with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and a crunchy walnut surprise. Finished with a silky cream cheese frosting, they strike the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence. Ideal for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave something warm and sweet, these rolls rise beautifully and deliver bakery-level flavor at home.
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Ingredients & Quantities
For the Dough
7 Tbsp (80g) sugar
1 tsp (4g) dry yeast
¾ cup (180ml) warm milk
3 Tbsp (45g) softened butter
1 egg
3 cups (390g) all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
For the Filling
5 Tbsp (70g) softened butter
½ cup (100g) brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
¾ cup (80g) finely chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
3 Tbsp (40g) butter, softened
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and dry yeast. Let sit for 5–7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add softened butter and egg, mixing to combine.
3. Add flour and salt. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
1. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. Set the softened butter and chopped walnuts aside.
3. Assemble the Rolls
1. Roll the dough into a rectangle (approx. 12×16 in / 30×40 cm).
2. Spread the butter evenly on top.
3. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture, then walnuts.
4. Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 rolls.
5. Arrange in a greased baking dish.
6. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
4. Bake
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Mix until creamy.
3. Spread over warm rolls.
Origin
Cinnamon rolls trace their roots to Northern Europe—particularly Sweden, where kanelbullar has long been a beloved pastry. American-style cinnamon rolls, however, are richer, fluffier, and often topped with cream cheese frosting. This recipe combines the comforting American version with the added texture and warmth of walnuts, a nod to classic European nut-filled pastri
Cultural Significance
Cinnamon rolls have become a symbol of comfort food across many cultures. In Scandinavia, they represent coziness and togetherness, often enjoyed during fika (a coffee break ritual). In the U.S., they’re celebrated at brunch tables, bakeries, and holiday mornings. Adding walnuts evokes traditional festive baking, making these rolls especially meaningful during family gatherings or seasonal celebrations.
Recipe Description
These cinnamon-walnut rolls are incredibly soft thanks to the enriched yeast dough, with a gooey center layered with cinnamon, sugar, and nuts. The walnuts add subtle crunch and earthy depth, balancing the sweetness. A smooth cream cheese frosting melts into the warm spirals, creating a luscious finish.
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Optional Additions
Raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness
Maple syrup drizzle instead of frosting
Cardamom (½ tsp) added to the dough for a Scandinavian twist
Orange zest in the filling or frosting for brightness
Pecans as an alternative to walnuts
Chocolate chips for a dessert-leaning version
Tips for Success
Warm, not hot, milk ensures the yeast activates without dying.
Softened—but not melted—butter creates tender dough.
Tight rolling prevents the spiral from opening while baking.
Second rise is essential for fluffiness; don’t skip it.
Frost while warm so the frosting slightly melts into the rolls.
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice clean rolls.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per roll, unfrosted; values vary by ingredient brands)
Calories: ~280–320
Carbohydrates: ~42g
Protein: ~5g
Fat: ~11g
Saturated Fat: ~5g
Fiber: ~1.5g
Sugar: ~16g
Sodium: ~170mg
With frosting, expect 60–90 additional calories per roll.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls deliver comfort, texture, and sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special breakfast, or a relaxing weekend treat, their warm aroma and pillowy softness make the experience unforgettable.
Recommendation
Serve these rolls fresh from the oven with hot coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. They reheat beautifully—10 seconds in the microwave brings them right back to their warm, gooey glory. For gatherings, double the recipe, as these disappear fast!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While these rolls are indulgent, you can enjoy them mindfully by balancing rich treats with wholesome meals throughout the day. Using nuts adds healthy fats and minerals, and baking at home ensures clean, transparent ingredients. Allow yourself this moment of sweetness—savoring a warm roll can feed both body and spirit.
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