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, softened
• 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

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Calories: ~320 kcal per roll

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, and dry yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the yeast activates and becomes frothy.
2. Add the egg and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon to create a paste. Adjust the cinnamon to your taste preference.
2. Set aside the crushed walnuts for sprinkling during assembly.

3. Assemble the Rolls

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles.
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the crushed walnuts over the butter layer.
5. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
6. Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

4. Bake the Rolls

1. Arrange the slices in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, leaving some space between each roll for expansion.
2. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes until they puff up.
3. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.

5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the milk and powdered sugar, and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
3. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

6. Frost and Serve

1. Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking.
2. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the crevices.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey, sweet, and tangy goodness!

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

Cinnamon rolls have been a beloved treat for generations, with their roots tracing back to Sweden’s kanelbullar. Over time, they’ve become a staple in bakeries, coffee shops, and home kitchens worldwide. What makes them timeless is their universal appeal—soft dough, warm spices, and a rich frosting combine to create a comfort food that transcends cultures and ages.

This recipe, with its added crunch of walnuts and decadent cream cheese frosting, elevates the classic cinnamon roll into something truly special. The balance of flavors and textures ensures that every bite is a perfect harmony of sweetness, spice, and creaminess.

Cinnamon rolls are more than just a pastry—they’re an experience. The act of baking them, the aroma that fills the kitchen, and the joy of sharing them with loved ones make them a cherished tradition. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, these rolls are a reminder of why homemade treats hold a special place in our hearts.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

1. Use Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is lukewarm (around 37°C or 100°F) to activate the yeast. Too hot, and it will kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate.
2. Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their soft, chewy texture.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls in the oven. Overbaking can make them dry.
4. Spread Evenly: Distribute the filling uniformly to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
5. Customize: Add raisins, chocolate chips, or orange zest for a twist on the classic recipe.

Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
2. Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm them in the microwave or oven before serving.
3. Freezing: Freeze the unfrosted rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before adding the frosting.

Nutrition Facts (Per Roll)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! After assembling the rolls, cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking.

2. Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely. Freeze unfrosted rolls, then thaw and frost them fresh before serving.

3. What other nuts can I use?
Pecans, hazelnuts, or almonds work wonderfully as substitutes for walnuts.

4. How do I make the rolls extra fluffy?
Allowing the dough to rise fully during both proofing stages ensures the fluffiest texture.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace milk with almond or soy milk, butter with plant-based butter, and cream cheese with a vegan alternative.

Conclusion

The Classic Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a recipe—they’re an experience of indulgence, nostalgia, and warmth. With every bite, these rolls evoke a sense of comfort and happiness, making them perfect for any occasion. The combination of soft, pillowy dough, buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, and creamy frosting is a testament to why cinnamon rolls are a timeless treat.

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with additional flavors, prepare it ahead for convenience, or freeze it for future enjoyment. The act of baking these rolls is as enjoyable as eating them, with the aroma of cinnamon filling your home and creating memories that linger long after the last bite.

Whether you’re baking for loved ones or indulging in some self-care, these cinnamon rolls are a reminder of why we cherish homemade treats. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the magic of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. It’s a timeless recipe you’ll treasure forever. Happy baking!