These homemade cinnamon rolls are a treat you’ll love to make for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch. With a soft and fluffy dough, a deliciously sweet cinnamon walnut filling, and a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, these rolls offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory. They’re perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or as a weekend indulgence. The process might take a little time, but the end result is worth the wait!
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Active Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 7 Tbsp (80g) sugar
- 1 tsp (4g) dry yeast
- 1 cup (250ml) lukewarm milk
- 1 egg
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cups (500g) flour
- 1 tsp (4g) salt
For the Filling:
- 1/3 cup (80g) butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (80g) sugar
- Cinnamon to taste
- 1/2 cup (100g) crushed walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 1/4 cups (300g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 Tbsp milk
- 1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar
Directions
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Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix 7 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of dry yeast. Add 1 cup of lukewarm milk to the mixture and let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
Once frothy, mix in 1 egg and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Gradually add 4 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing until combined.
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. -
Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is rising, melt 1/3 cup of butter in a saucepan or microwave. Once melted, mix it with 1/2 cup of sugar, cinnamon to taste, and 1/2 cup of crushed walnuts. Stir until combined and set aside. -
Shape and Bake the Rolls:
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 9 equal parts. Roll each part into a flat rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick) on a floured surface.
Spread the cinnamon walnut filling evenly over the dough. Roll each rectangle tightly into a log and cut into rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased 9-inch baking dish or round pan. Let the rolls rise for an additional 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown. -
Prepare the Frosting:
While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium-sized bowl, blend 1 1/4 cups of softened cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. -
Serve:
Once the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top of each warm roll.
Serve the cinnamon rolls warm for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with additional crushed walnuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure the dough is allowed to rise in a warm place to help it double in size.
- For extra fluffy rolls, be sure to knead the dough thoroughly to activate the gluten.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, add extra cinnamon to the filling mixture.
- For the frosting, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to make blending easier.
- These rolls are perfect for making ahead! You can assemble them the night before, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Walnuts: Walnuts are high in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
- Ricotta: The ricotta cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle repair.
- Eggs: Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein and contain essential vitamins like vitamin B12 and choline, which support brain health.
Conclusion These cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are a deliciously indulgent treat that everyone will love. With their soft, fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon and walnut filling, and creamy frosting, they’re the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a special breakfast, dessert, or treat, these rolls will quickly become a family favorite. The process is simple, but the result is nothing short of delicious, making this recipe one you’ll want to return to again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the cinnamon rolls the night before, cover them, and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them rise for 30 minutes before baking.
2. Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts? Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.
3. Can I make these rolls dairy-free? To make these rolls dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and substitute dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
4. How can I store the leftover cinnamon rolls? Store the leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them or freeze them.
5. Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls? Yes, you can freeze the rolls after they’ve been baked and cooled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.