Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, to adjust consistency)

How to Make Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   Start by warming your milk to about 110°F (warm to the touch but not hot). In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the milk, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired, and you’ll need fresh yeast to proceed.
2. Mix the Dough:
   In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add it to the bowl with the butter and eggs. Gradually add in the flour, about 1 cup at a time, mixing as you go. Once all the flour is added, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, either by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
   Grease a large bowl with a little butter or cooking spray, and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

1. Prepare the Filling:
   While the dough is rising, make the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Set aside.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 12 inches by 18 inches. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Add the Filling:
   Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the butter, and then scatter the chopped walnuts over the top.
4. Roll the Dough:
   Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal the roll.
5. Cut into Rolls:
   Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them in a snug, single layer. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 3: Bake the Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake:
   Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Mix the Frosting:
   While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a tablespoon of milk if needed to achieve a spreadable consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

Step 5: Frost the Rolls

Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. Then, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. The frosting will melt into the swirls of cinnamon and walnut goodness, creating a rich and indulgent treat.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Rush the Rising Time: The dough needs time to rise properly for that soft and fluffy texture. Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size, and don’t skip the second rise after rolling the dough into rolls.
• Use Fresh Yeast: For the best results, make sure your yeast is fresh. If the yeast doesn’t foam in the warm milk, discard the mixture and start with new yeast.
• Store for Later: If you want to prep the rolls in advance, you can make the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let the dough come to room temperature and rise before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked rolls and bake them later—just let them thaw and rise before popping them into the oven.

Why You’ll Love These Rolls

• The soft and fluffy texture of the dough is perfectly complemented by the crunchy walnuts and the indulgent cream cheese frosting.
• These rolls are perfect for sharing, making them ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or special occasions.
• With the cinnamon-walnut combination, you get the warmth of cinnamon and the nutty richness of walnuts, making each bite full of flavor.

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Conclusion:

These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate comfort treat. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for a special occasion, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone craving more. So why not whip up a batch today and experience the perfect blend of cinnamon, walnuts, and creamy frosting in every bite? 🍩💖