Cinnamon Walnut Rolls

This delightful recipe combines sweet and savory elements into a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a soft, fluffy dough and a creamy cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a special dessert, this recipe has you covered.

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) Granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp (4g) Active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (250ml) Lukewarm milk
  • 1 Large egg
  • 2 Tbsp (30ml) Vegetable oil
  • 4 cups (500g) All-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp (4g) Salt

For the Filling:

  • 1/3 cup (80g) Unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (80g) Granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (100g) Chopped walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 1/4 cups (300g) Cream cheese, softened
  • 3 Tbsp (45ml) Milk
  • 1/2 cup (100g) Powdered sugar

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large bowl, combine 7 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of yeast.
    • Add 1 cup of lukewarm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
    • Stir in 1 egg and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
    • Gradually add 4 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
    • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat.
    • Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  2. Prepare the Filling:

    • In a small bowl, combine melted butter, 1/2 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts.
  3. Shape and Bake:

    • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 9 equal pieces.
    • Roll each piece into a rectangle.
    • Spread each rectangle with the prepared filling.
    • Roll up the dough tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Let the rolls rise for 20 minutes.
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  4. Prepare the Frosting:

    • In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, milk, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
  5. Frost and Serve:

    • Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting.
    • Frost each roll generously with the cream cheese frosting.
    • Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
  • Great for breakfast or as a snack.
  • Top with extra crushed walnuts for added crunch.
  • Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced treat.

Cooking Tips:

  • Ensure the milk is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.
  • Knead the dough well for a light, fluffy texture.
  • Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
  • Frost only after the baked goods have cooled to avoid melting.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Provides a good source of calcium from cream cheese.
  • Nuts add healthy fats and protein.
  • Includes whole grains if using whole wheat flour.
  • Sweetened naturally with sugar and not high in artificial ingredients.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Nut-Free Option: Omit walnuts
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend

Storage:

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Delicious Flavor: A perfect blend of sweet and nutty with a creamy frosting.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
  • Versatile: Great for any time of the day or special occasions.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike for its rich taste.

Conclusion:

This Cinnamon Walnut Rolls recipe is a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire, combining ease with delectable flavors. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a sweet indulgence. With a fluffy dough, nutty filling, and creamy frosting, every bite is a delight. Give it a try and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
    • Yes, almond milk works as a substitute for regular milk.
  • Can I use a different type of nut?
    • Absolutely, feel free to use pecans or almonds if you prefer.
  • How can I make this recipe vegan?
    • Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based butter for the filling and frosting.
  • What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
    • Try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
  • Can I prepare the dough the night before?
    • Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
  • How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
    • The dough should double in size and feel light and airy.
  • Can I freeze the baked goods?
  • Can I skip the nuts in the filling?
    • Yes, you can omit the nuts if you prefer or use a nut-free filling.
  • How can I adjust the sweetness?
    • Reduce or increase the sugar in the filling and frosting to suit your taste.
  • What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
    • You can knead the dough by hand; it will just take a bit more effort.