Few things can rival the warm, inviting aroma of Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls baking in the oven. These soft, fluffy rolls offer the perfect balance of sweetness from the cinnamon sugar and nuttiness from the walnuts, all finished with a rich cream cheese frosting that adds a tangy, creamy element. Whether you're preparing them for a special brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a midday treat, these rolls are irresistible. With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is approachable for beginners yet delivers the indulgent flavor that even seasoned bakers will love.
Ingredients List
For the Dough:
- 7 tablespoons sugar (80 grams): Adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon dried yeast (4 grams): Helps the dough rise and become light and airy.
- 1 cup lukewarm milk (250 milliliters): Activates the yeast and provides moisture.
- 1 egg: Adds richness and structure to the dough.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the dough soft and prevents dryness.
- 2 cups flour (500 grams): The base of the dough, providing structure.
- 1 teaspoon salt (4 grams): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Filling:
- 1/3 cup butter (80 grams): Provides a rich base for the cinnamon sugar filling.
- 1/2 cup sugar (80 grams): Sweetens the filling for a delicious, caramelized interior.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The star spice, adding warmth and depth to the rolls.
- 1/2 cup crushed walnuts (200 grams): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (200 grams): The base of the frosting, offering tanginess and creaminess.
- 3 tablespoons milk: Thins the frosting for a smooth, spreadable texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (50 grams): Sweetens the frosting and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine 7 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of dried yeast. Add 1 cup of lukewarm milk and stir until the yeast begins to activate and foam, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk in 1 egg and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Gradually add 2 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
- While the dough rises, melt 1/3 cup of butter in a saucepan. Stir in 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and 1/2 cup of crushed walnuts. Mix until well combined, then set aside to cool.
3. Roll Out and Fill the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
- Spread the prepared filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Shape and Bake the Rolls
- Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long edge. Cut the log into 9 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) during this time.
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together 1/4 cup of cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until smooth.
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly before spreading the frosting generously over the top.
Why This Recipe is Loved
These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls have become a go-to recipe for many home bakers for several reasons:
- Perfectly Fluffy Texture: The dough rises beautifully, giving each roll a light and airy feel.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The cinnamon-walnut filling provides the perfect blend of sweet and nutty, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy finish.
- Versatile: These rolls work for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them suitable for any occasion.
- Simple to Prepare: With easy-to-find ingredients and clear instructions, these rolls are achievable for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls:
- Use lukewarm milk (not too hot, not too cold) to activate the yeast for the perfect rise.
- Knead the dough well to develop gluten, which will give your rolls their fluffy, tender texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it doubles in size.
- Don’t frost the rolls too early! Allow them to cool slightly before applying the cream cheese frosting to avoid melting it completely.
- Customize the filling: Feel free to substitute the walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even add raisins for a fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these warm rolls with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Add a side of fresh fruit for a well-rounded brunch.
- For a more indulgent treat, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a dessert.
Persuasive Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you can create the most indulgent, soft and fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also delivers bakery-quality results right at home. The light, pillowy dough combined with the irresistible cinnamon-nut filling and rich frosting is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you're hosting a brunch, serving dessert, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try for any home baker. Try it once, and these rolls will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for any occasion.
So, what are you waiting for? Start baking and enjoy the satisfaction of pulling these warm, gooey rolls fresh from the oven!