Introduction

Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house on a lazy morning. These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With their rich, buttery dough and a sweet, spicy filling, these rolls are the epitome of comfort food. Paired with a tangy, creamy frosting, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a cinnamon roll enthusiast or a newcomer, this recipe will surely impress.

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) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (4g) salt

For the Filling:

• 1/3 cup (80g) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (80g) sugar
• 2-3 Tbsp cinnamon (to taste)
• 1/2 cup (50g) chopped walnuts (optional, but highly recommended)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 Tbsp milk (adjust to desired consistency)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir in the dry yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
2. Mix the dough: Add the egg, vegetable oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until it forms a dough.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Make the cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Chop the walnuts: If using, roughly chop the walnuts into small pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out the dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
2. Spread the filling: Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top.
3. Roll up the dough: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log.
4. Cut into rolls: Slice the dough into 12 even rolls. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
3. Cool the rolls: Let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Mix the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Frost the rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the cinnamon swirls.

Methods

The process of making these cinnamon-walnut rolls can be broken down into several stages:

• Dough Preparation: Creating the soft and fluffy dough is the first and most essential step. The yeast needs to be activated properly for the dough to rise and become fluffy.
• Filling the Rolls: The butter, sugar, and cinnamon filling is what gives these rolls their signature taste. Adding walnuts enhances the flavor and texture, making them even more indulgent.
• Baking: The rolls bake in a warm oven, where they expand and turn golden brown, creating a delicious aroma that fills the kitchen.
• Frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting adds richness and sweetness, perfectly complementing the warm, cinnamon-scented rolls.

History

Cinnamon rolls have a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times, with cinnamon being a sought-after spice. The modern cinnamon roll, as we know it today, is said to have originated in Sweden, where it is called kanelbulle and is commonly enjoyed with coffee. In America, cinnamon rolls became popular in the 1950s when baking became a more accessible activity for home cooks. The addition of frosting and various fillings like walnuts or raisins helped to elevate these rolls to the decadent treat they are today.

Benefits

While cinnamon-walnut rolls are not a health food, they do have some benefits:

• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a potent spice that can help regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also improve brain function and provide a boost of antioxidants.
• Walnuts: Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which support brain health and reduce inflammation in the body.
• Baking at Home: Making these rolls from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring there are no unnecessary preservatives or artificial additives.

Nutrition

Each roll, when cut into 12 pieces, contains approximately:

• Calories: 300-350 per roll (depending on portion size)
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Fat: 15-20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 20g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portions used.

Conclusion

These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Their soft, buttery dough and sweet, spiced filling are made even more delightful by the creamy, tangy frosting. The history of cinnamon rolls connects generations of bakers, and their popularity continues to grow in homes across the world. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or as a special treat for your loved ones, these rolls are sure to be a hit.

Lovers of this Recipe

If you enjoy comfort food that brings people together, these cinnamon-walnut rolls are a must-try. Their perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and flavor makes them a favorite for families, friends, and anyone with a sweet tooth. Share them with loved ones, and they’re sure to become a beloved tradition in your home!