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For the Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust to desired consistency)
How to Make Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar. Let the mixture cool until it’s warm but not hot, around 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the beaten egg. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much. Once the dough is ready, place it in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, make the filling. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Chop the walnuts into small pieces, if using. Set everything aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture and chopped walnuts on top.
Step 3: Roll and Slice the Dough
Starting from one of the longer edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, slice the dough into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
Step 4: Let the Rolls Rise
Cover the dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up and fill the dish.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven. When done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until fluffy and smooth, adjusting the cream as needed to get your desired consistency.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Once the cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. The frosting will melt into the rolls, creating a sweet, creamy layer. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
- Let the dough rise properly: Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise. A warm, draft-free environment will help the dough rise faster. You can place the bowl in an oven with the light on to create a warm spot.
- Customize the filling: If you prefer a different nut or even want to leave out the walnuts, feel free to adjust the filling to suit your taste. Pecans, almonds, or even chocolate chips can be a great addition!
- Make them ahead of time: If you want to enjoy these rolls for breakfast, prepare them the night before. After slicing the dough, cover and refrigerate them overnight. The next morning, let them rise for about 30 minutes, then bake as usual.
- Use the frosting generously: Don’t skimp on the frosting! The cream cheese frosting is what makes these rolls extra decadent, so pile it on for the perfect sweet touch.
Conclusion
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the epitome of comfort food. They’re indulgent, sweet, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy with your morning coffee, these rolls will quickly become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a warm, gooey, and absolutely delightful cinnamon roll experience! 🧁✨
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