Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

 

Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting, 

---

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk, warmed (110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the cinnamon-walnut filling:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)
• Pinch of salt

---

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.)
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

---

2. Make the cinnamon-walnut filling:

1. In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped walnuts.

---

3. Assemble the rolls:

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16x12-inch rectangle.
2. Spread the cinnamon-walnut filling evenly over the dough.
3. Roll up the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
4. Cut into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
5. Cover with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

---

4. Bake the rolls:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting.

---

5. Make the cream cheese frosting:

1. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and a pinch of salt. Mix until creamy and spreadable.
3. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.

---

6. Frost and serve:

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.
2. Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top for added crunch (optional).
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

---

Tips:

• For overnight rolls, assemble them, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

---

Enjoy these soft and fluffy cinnamon-walnut rolls with rich cream cheese frosting! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day.