When it comes to baking, few things are as heartwarming and delightful as a batch of homemade cinnamon rolls. These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting offer an exceptional blend of comforting flavors and textures that elevate the classic roll to new heights. Each roll is a soft, airy delight with a generous swirl of cinnamon and crunchy walnuts, topped with a rich, creamy frosting that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to make your kitchen smell irresistible and leave everyone reaching for seconds. Get ready to experience the ultimate treat that combines warmth, sweetness, and a touch of elegance.
Ingredients :
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions :
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes. You should see the mixture become frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to make your dough rise.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until well combined.In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms. If necessary, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable and not too sticky.
- Knead and Let Rise: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Make the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon-walnut filling. In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Fold in the finely chopped walnuts to add a delightful crunch to the filling.
- Roll and Shape: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Evenly spread the cinnamon-walnut mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.Carefully roll the dough up from one long side into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal. Slice the log into 12 even pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Proofing: Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes, or until they have expanded and are touching each other.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. A quick check with a toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center of a roll.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract until the frosting is fluffy and light.
- Frost and Enjoy: After removing the rolls from the oven, allow them to cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting over the top. Serve the rolls warm for the best experience, and enjoy the combination of soft, spiced dough and creamy frosting.
Conclusion :
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the epitome of indulgent baking, combining the classic comfort of cinnamon rolls with a touch of sophistication. Their tender, pillowy texture paired with the crunchy walnuts and luscious cream cheese frosting makes each bite a delectable treat.
Perfect for any occasion that calls for a bit of extra sweetness, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, these rolls will bring warmth and joy to your table, making every moment a little sweeter.
Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill Lectures
