Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Introduction

These cinnamon-walnut rolls are incredibly soft with delicate layers that pull apart beautifully. Warm cinnamon sugar, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy cream cheese frosting come together to create a comforting, irresistible treat that fills the kitchen with an unforgettable aroma.

Ingredients (Makes 12 rolls)

Dough

• 3¾ cups (470 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp / 7 g) instant yeast
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 43°C / 110°F)
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon salt

Filling

• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (90 g) finely chopped walnuts

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (as needed)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
   Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead & rise
   Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, until doubled.
3. Prepare filling
   Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
4. Shape the rolls
   Roll dough into a 30×40 cm (12×16 in) rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar and walnuts over the surface.
   Roll tightly from the long side and cut into 12 equal rolls.
5. Second rise
   Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes until puffy.
6. Bake
   Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, until lightly golden.
7. Make frosting
   Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until spreadable.
8. Frost & serve
   Spread frosting over warm (not hot) rolls. Serve soft and gooey.

Description

These rolls are tender and airy with rich cinnamon warmth, buttery layers, and toasted walnut crunch. The cream cheese frosting melts into every swirl, delivering a perfect sweet-tangy finish.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Cinnamon rolls trace their roots to Northern Europe, especially Sweden, before becoming a beloved breakfast pastry worldwide. Adding walnuts and cream cheese frosting reflects American bakery traditions, blending comfort with indulgence.

Optional Additions

• Substitute walnuts with pecans
• Add a drizzle of maple syrup to the filling
• Orange zest in the frosting for brightness
• Raisins or chopped dates for extra sweetness

Tips for Success

• Warm milk—not hot—keeps yeast active
• Roll dough tightly for beautiful spirals
• Do not overbake; softness is key
• Frost while warm for melt-in richness

Nutritional Information (Approx. per roll)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Protein: 7 g

Conclusion

Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are the ultimate comfort bake—perfectly risen, warmly spiced, and luxuriously frosted. They’re a guaranteed favorite for family breakfasts or special occasions.

Recommendation

Enjoy with coffee, chai, or warm milk. These rolls also freeze well unfrosted for make-ahead mornings.