Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

These homemade Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are irresistibly soft, filled with buttery cinnamon sugar and crunchy walnuts, then topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Ingredients

Dough

• 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, room temperature

Filling

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150 g) packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (100 g) chopped walnuts

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk, if needed

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt.
3. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

• Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

3. Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll the dough into a 16 × 12-inch (40 × 30 cm) rectangle.
2. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
3. Sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
4. Scatter the chopped walnuts evenly over the top.
5. Roll the dough up tightly from the long side into a log.
6. Cut into 12 equal rolls.

4. Second Rise

• Arrange the rolls in a greased 9 × 13-inch baking dish.
• Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

5. Bake

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the centers are cooked through.

6. Make the Frosting

• Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
• Add a little milk if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

7. Frost and Serve

• Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes.
• Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a softer, more even dough.
• Toast the walnuts before adding them to the filling for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• For extra-soft rolls, cover the baking dish loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes if they brown too quickly.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours
Makes: 12 rolls