Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
There are few aromas more comforting than cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. This recipe elevates the classic cinnamon roll with the earthy crunch of walnuts and a luxuriously tangy cream cheese frosting. The dough is soft, pillowy, and enriched with milk and egg, resulting in a tender, fluffy base that perfectly soaks up the buttery cinnamon sugar and melds with the rich frosting. Whether for a special weekend breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a thoughtful gift, these rolls are a labor of love that yields delicious rewards.
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History & Cultural Significance
The origins of sweet, spiced rolls can be traced back to ancient times, but the cinnamon roll as we know it today has strong roots in Northern Europe, particularly Sweden and Denmark (where they are known as kanelbullar and kanelsnegle respectively). Immigrants brought these pastries to America, where they evolved into the often larger, sweeter, and frosted versions enjoyed today. The addition of cream cheese frosting is a distinctly American twist, believed to have gained popularity in the mid-20th century. This recipe honors that tradition while adding walnuts for texture and depth.
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Benefits & Highlights
· Homemade Goodness: Free from preservatives, you control the quality of every ingredient.
· Therapeutic Process: The act of kneading dough and watching it rise is a rewarding, mindful practice.
· Customizable: Adjust cinnamon levels, add raisins or other nuts, or play with frosting flavors.
· Crowd-Pleaser: Universally loved, perfect for sharing and creating warm memories.
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Formation & Key Techniques
The magic lies in the lamination of butter and sugar within the layered yeast dough. As the rolls bake, the butter melts, steaming the layers apart while the sugar and cinnamon caramelize into a gooey filling. The walnuts provide a toasty contrast. The cream cheese frosting, applied while the rolls are still warm, melts slightly into the nooks and crannies, creating an irresistible glaze.
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Nutritional Information (Per Roll, approx.)
· Calories: ~380 kcal
· Carbohydrates: 52g
· Protein: 7g
· Fat: 16g (Saturated: 7g)
· Fiber: 2g
· Sugar: 24g
· Note: This is an estimate. Values can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
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Ingredients
Dough:
· 7 Tbsp (80g) granulated sugar
· 1 tsp (4g) active dry yeast
· 1 cup (250ml) lukewarm whole milk (about 110°F/43°C)
· 1 large egg, at room temperature
· 2 Tbsp neutral vegetable oil (e.g., canola)
· 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
· 1 tsp (4g) fine salt
Filling:
· 1/3 cup (80g) unsalted butter, very soft
· 1/2 cup (110g) packed light brown sugar
· 2 1/2 – 3 Tbsp ground cinnamon (to taste)
· 3/4 cup (85g) walnuts, finely chopped
Cream Cheese Frosting:
· 4 oz (115g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
· 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
· 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
· 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
· A pinch of salt
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Methods & Instructions
Part 1: Making the Dough
1. Activate Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and fragrant.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Whisk until smooth.
3. Mix Dough: Attach the dough hook. Add the flour and salt. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead: Increase speed to medium and knead for 6-8 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky. (Alternatively, knead by hand on a floured surface for 10 minutes).
5. First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Part 2: Shaping & Second Rise
1. Prepare Pan: While the dough rises, generously butter a 9×13 inch baking dish or a large round cake pan.
2. Roll Out: Punch down the risen dough. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
3. Add Filling: Spread the softened 1/3 cup butter evenly over the entire surface. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the butter, then scatter the chopped walnuts over the top.
4. Roll Up: Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
5. Slice: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
6. Arrange: Place the rolls cut-side up in the prepared pan, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
7. Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) towards the end of the rise.
Part 3: Baking & Finishing
1. Bake: Bake the rolls for 22-26 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
2. Make Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth. Beat in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until creamy.
3. Frost: Let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Spread or dollop the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the layers.
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For the True Cinnamon Roll Lovers
· Gooier Rolls: Spread 2-3 Tbsp of heavy cream or maple syrup in the bottom of the pan before adding the rolls.
· Overnight Method: After shaping and placing rolls in the pan, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
· Flavor Twists: Add a pinch of cardamom to the dough, orange zest to the frosting, or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.
· Ultimate Indulgence: Serve warm with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of strong coffee.
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Conclusion
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are more than just a pastry; they are an experience. The process of creating them fills your home with anticipation, and the final product delivers unparalleled comfort and joy. The contrast of the warm, spiced, nutty swirl with the cool, creamy frosting is a harmony of textures and flavors that feels like a hug in food form. They are a testament to the beauty of homemade baking—a treat made with patience and care, meant to be shared with those you love. So gather your ingredients, clear your counter, and prepare to make something truly wonderful. Enjoy every soft, fluffy, decadent bite