Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
If you’re searching for the ultimate bakery-style treat to make at home, these soft and fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are pure perfection. Warm, pillowy dough rolled up with buttery cinnamon sugar and crunchy walnuts, then topped with silky cream cheese frosting—these rolls are comfort in every bite. The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like a dream, and the taste? Absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking them for a cozy weekend breakfast, a family brunch, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these homemade rolls deliver everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls, plus the bonus of toasted walnuts for a nutty crunch that elevates them to the next level.
These rolls are soft, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The dough is tender and airy, the filling is perfectly spiced and sweet, and the frosting is creamy and tangy with a luxurious finish. Once you try them fresh out of the oven, you’ll understand why homemade cinnamon rolls always beat store-bought ones.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
These rolls are a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. They’re easy to make, even for beginners, and the results are bakery-quality. The dough is soft and workable, the filling spreads smoothly, and the frosting takes them from great to unforgettable. Here’s what makes this recipe special:
- Fluffy, light dough: The yeast-based dough rises beautifully and stays soft for days.
- Nutty cinnamon filling: The combination of butter, sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts adds rich flavor and texture.
- Heavenly cream cheese frosting: Smooth, tangy, and sweet—this frosting ties everything together perfectly.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare them the night before and bake them fresh in the morning.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 7 tablespoons (80g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon (4g) dry yeast
- 1 cup (250ml) lukewarm milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon (4g) salt
For the Filling
- 1/3 cup (80g) butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (80g) sugar
- Cinnamon to taste (about 1–2 teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional but recommended)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Active Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise.
Step 2: Make the dough
Add the egg, vegetable oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition until the dough starts to come together. Once it becomes too thick to stir, use your hands to bring it into a soft, slightly sticky dough.
If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s smooth and elastic but not dry. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Let the dough rise
Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This slow rise is what gives your rolls their signature fluffy texture.
Step 4: Prepare the filling
While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Chop the walnuts into small pieces and set them aside.
Step 5: Roll out the dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top of the filling.
Step 6: Shape the rolls
Starting from the long side of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut it into 12 even slices. Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a greased baking pan, leaving a bit of space between them so they can expand.
Step 7: Second rise
Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and are touching each other slightly. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: Bake the rolls
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top and the filling is bubbling slightly. The smell of cinnamon and butter will fill your kitchen—it’s pure heaven.
Step 9: Make the cream cheese frosting
While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until creamy and spreadable.
Step 10: Frost and serve
Once the rolls come out of the oven, let them cool for 5–10 minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. The heat will slightly melt the frosting, creating a dreamy glaze that seeps into every layer.
The Secret to Soft, Fluffy Rolls
The key to achieving that perfect, bakery-style softness is all about timing and texture. Make sure your milk is warm but not hot when activating the yeast—too much heat can kill the yeast, while cold milk slows it down. Letting the dough rise fully both times is equally important; this is where all the magic happens. Patience equals fluffiness.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
- Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date—fresh yeast ensures the best rise and flavor.
- Don’t rush the rise: Give the dough enough time to double in size. The longer fermentation builds better texture.
- Cut cleanly: Use dental floss or a sharp knife to slice the rolls neatly without flattening them.
- Add extra nuts or raisins: For more texture, add raisins, pecans, or even chopped almonds to the filling.
- Make-ahead version: Prepare the rolls and place them in the pan, then refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking in the morning.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. You can also freeze the rolls (unfrosted) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and warm before frosting.
Flavor Variations
These cinnamon-walnut rolls are a perfect base for experimenting with new flavors:
- Maple Pecan Rolls: Substitute walnuts with pecans and drizzle maple syrup over the frosting.
- Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add finely chopped apples to the filling for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Rolls: Replace the filling with chocolate-hazelnut spread and top with crushed hazelnuts.
- Orange Glazed Rolls: Mix orange zest into the frosting for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
These rolls are not just a treat—they’re an experience. The combination of soft, pillowy dough, gooey cinnamon sugar, and crunchy walnuts creates layers of texture and flavor that are simply addictive. The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect finishing touch, balancing sweetness with tang. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it for every occasion—from holiday mornings to casual weekend brunches.
Conclusion
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are everything homemade baking should be—warm, comforting, and made with love. The dough is tender, the filling is sweet and nutty, and the frosting adds a luxurious, velvety touch that ties it all together. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these rolls are guaranteed to bring joy with every bite.
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