If you are looking for a truly irresistible treat that fills your kitchen with warmth and heavenly aroma, the Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. These rolls boast a soft, airy texture with a perfect swirl of cinnamon and crunchy walnuts inside, all crowned with luscious cream cheese frosting. Every bite combines sweetness, spice, and a hint of tang that will make you fall in love with homemade pastries all over again. Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a cozy holiday morning, these rolls promise to be your new go-to comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe might seem fancy, but you really only need everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor, texture, and that iconic cinnamon aroma. Each item plays a role, from the warm milk that activates the yeast to the brown sugar and walnuts that give it depth and crunch.
- Warm milk (110°F/45°C): Activates yeast for a perfect rise and tender dough.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The magical leavening agent that makes the rolls fluffy.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Provides sweetness and helps yeast activation.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp + 2 tbsp): The star spice that gives the rolls their signature warm flavor.
- All-purpose flour (4 cups): The foundation of the dough with just the right structure.
- Large egg (1): Enhances texture and adds moisture.
- Softened unsalted butter (1/2 cup): For a melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon filling.
- Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Adds deep, caramel notes to the filling.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Adds crunch and nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Essential for the creamy, tangy frosting that tops the rolls.
- Softened unsalted butter (1/4 cup): For a smooth and rich frosting texture.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds fragrant sweetness to the frosting.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances and balances the frosting flavors.
How to Make Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar in a small bowl. This little mixture needs to sit and get frothy—about 5 to 10 minutes—signaling that the yeast is alive and kicking. In a large bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, salt, and then add the egg. Pour in your frothy yeast mixture along with the melted butter. It’s time to get your hands dirty! Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. This kneading develops the gluten, which will give you that signature fluffy texture.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Form your dough into a ball and cover it with a cloth. Place it somewhere warm to rise until it doubles in size—roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. This gives the dough the lightness and volume that will make these rolls truly melt in your mouth.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts if you want that delightful crunch. This mixture is what will infuse the rolls with glorious, gooey cinnamon goodness inside every spiral.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16 by 12 inches. Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar filling, being careful to leave a small border around the edges. Then starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seam to seal it well. This tight roll ensures beautiful swirls and no messy leaks while baking.
Step 5: Cut and Rise Again
Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces and place them snugly in a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish. Cover them loosely with a cloth and let the rolls rise again until puffy, about 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise makes sure each roll bakes up with perfect softness and volume.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake those beauties for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn golden brown. Just imagine the aroma filling your home at this moment—it’s pure magic.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls bake, whip together the cream cheese and softened butter until silky smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and luscious. When your rolls come out of the oven and have cooled just a bit, spread the frosting generously on top, allowing it to melt slightly into those warm swirls.
How to Serve Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your rolls, try sprinkling extra chopped walnuts or a dash of cinnamon on top of the cream cheese frosting. Freshly grated nutmeg or a drizzle of honey can add a lovely aromatic note. A quick dusting of powdered sugar right before serving also adds a beautifully delicate touch that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine beautifully alongside hot coffee or a robust black tea, offering a sweet-spiced counterbalance. For brunch, add some fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon for contrast. If serving dessert style, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of warm fruit compote pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting and tender dough.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy gathering, serve your Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by small bowls of extra cream cheese frosting, chopped nuts, and cinnamon sticks. Or go for a warm, inviting look by placing the rolls in a colorful ceramic dish with a linen napkin underneath for that charming, homemade vibe. Cutting into the rolls right at the table invites everyone to enjoy the fresh, gooey goodness together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover rolls (though that is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cream cheese frosting may soften the rolls a bit, but their flavor stays wonderful. For best texture, consume within this window to enjoy that fresh-baked softness.
Freezing
You can freeze these rolls either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, prepare the rolls, place them in a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready, thaw and let them rise fully before baking. For freezing after baking, cool completely, frost, and wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. They keep beautifully for up to 3 months and defrost overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
Reheat rolls gently in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. Add a little extra frosting if needed right before serving to reignite that creamy, dreamy finish.
FAQs
Can I make these rolls without walnuts?
Absolutely! The walnuts add a nice crunch and flavor, but if you’re not a fan or have allergies, simply leave them out. The rolls will still be rich, fluffy, and utterly delicious with just the cinnamon sugar filling.
How important is the second rise?
The second rise is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture inside the rolls. Skipping it can lead to denser rolls that won’t have the classic soft spiraled layers the recipe promises.
Can I use a different frosting?
Of course! While cream cheese frosting is the perfect creamy counterpart to cinnamon rolls, you can swap it for a simple vanilla glaze or even a caramel drizzle depending on your preferences. But try it the original way at least once—you won’t regret it.
What if my dough is sticky?
Sticky dough is normal when working with enriched breads like cinnamon rolls. Dust your hands and work surface lightly with flour to manage it, but be careful not to add too much flour or the rolls may turn out dense.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
With a few swaps like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a suitable egg replacement, you can adapt this recipe to vegan standards. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but it’s a great way to enjoy these flavorful rolls without animal products.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like pulling a pan of warm, freshly baked Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe out of the oven and sharing them with loved ones. This recipe offers pure comfort in every bite, and it’s wonderfully approachable for home bakers of all levels. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy creating a batch of these irresistible rolls that are guaranteed to bring smiles around your table.
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
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are soft, aromatic, and generously filled with a cinnamon-sugar walnut mixture. Topped with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, they make a perfect warm breakfast treat or dessert. The dough is yeast-leavened to achieve light, airy rolls that melt in your mouth.
Ingredients
Dough
- 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
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 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 the warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix and Knead: In a large bowl, whisk the flour, ground cinnamon, salt, and the egg together. Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter, stirring to combine all ingredients. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
- First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and the chopped walnuts if you’re using them. Set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a large rectangle roughly 16 by 12 inches.
- Apply Filling: Spread the cinnamon-sugar walnut mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to seal the roll.
- Form the Rolls: Starting from one of the longer edges, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal it closed securely.
- Cut and Place: Slice the roll log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange these pieces spaced evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up significantly.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the rolls are cooked through.
- Prepare Frosting: While baking, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
- Frost and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, serve, and enjoy the deliciously gooey cinnamon-walnut rolls.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Letting the dough rise in a warm environment helps it double in size effectively.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts from the filling.
- The rolls are best served warm to enjoy the gooey frosting and soft texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to restore softness.
