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Instructions for Making Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the yeast mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir to combine.
- Add the Flour: Gradually add the flour, cinnamon, and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough begins to form. Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon-Walnut Filling
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt until it forms a smooth paste. Set aside.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
- Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 16×12 inches.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-walnut filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the Dough: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a log, making sure it’s tight enough to hold the filling but not so tight that it squeezes out.
- Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they are close together.
- Let the Rolls Rise: Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and nearly doubled in size.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Rolls: Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. If the rolls start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, and continue to beat until fully combined. If the frosting is too thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
- Frost the Rolls: Once the cinnamon-walnut rolls have cooled slightly but are still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. The frosting will melt into the warm rolls, creating a creamy and indulgent topping.
- Serve: Enjoy your soft and fluffy cinnamon-walnut rolls fresh out of the oven! They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise overnight in the fridge. In the morning, simply bake them fresh for a warm and comforting breakfast.
- Customize the Filling: If you prefer, you can switch out the walnuts for other nuts, like pecans or almonds, or add raisins or currants for extra sweetness.
- Frosting Variations: For a different twist, you can add a little lemon zest or cinnamon to the frosting for a burst of extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is light and airy, creating a soft, pillowy roll that’s perfect for pairing with the rich frosting.
- Warm Cinnamon Flavor: The cinnamon-walnut filling gives the rolls a delightful warmth and spice that’s incredibly comforting.
- Irresistible Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting adds a decadent touch, balancing out the sweetness and making these rolls even more indulgent.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these rolls are sure to impress.
Conclusion
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are an absolute treat that’s perfect for any time of the day. With their tender, pillowy dough, cinnamon-walnut filling, and creamy frosting, these rolls offer a deliciously sweet and satisfying experience. Bake them for a special occasion, or simply indulge in a cozy breakfast that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon. Whichever way you enjoy them, these cinnamon rolls will become a beloved recipe in your baking repertoire.
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