Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
Filling
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 2 tbsp (30g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp (30g) ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup (80g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (90g) finely chopped walnuts
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1/2 cup (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for thinning)
Directions
- Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large mixing bowl.
- Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix to form a dough.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth, or mix with a stand mixer for 5-7 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
- Punch down dough and roll into a 16×12 inch (40×30 cm) rectangle.
- Spread softened butter over dough and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture and walnuts.
- Roll dough tightly, slice into 12 even rolls, and arrange in a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth for the frosting. Spread over slightly cooled rolls.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with hot coffee or tea.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Top with extra chopped walnuts for added crunch.
- Serve as a holiday breakfast centerpiece with festive décor.
Cooking Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a softer dough.
- Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Use dental floss to cut the rolls for clean slices.
- Don’t overbake to keep the rolls soft and moist.
- Adjust the sweetness of the frosting by adding more or less powdered sugar.
Nutritional Benefits
- Walnuts provide healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels.
- A small portion offers a satisfying energy boost.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts.
- Not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets without modifications.