There’s something magical about pulling a tray of freshly baked cinnamon rolls from the oven—the warm aroma of cinnamon sugar, the tender layers of dough, and the creamy frosting melting into every swirl. These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate comfort treat: pillowy, buttery rolls filled with a rich cinnamon-walnut mixture and finished with a silky cream cheese glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are a showstopper that feels indulgent yet approachable for home bakers.
Whether you’re making them for a holiday morning, a family gathering, or simply to brighten a weekend, this recipe guarantees rolls that are soft, gooey, and perfectly spiced. The addition of toasted walnuts provides a delightful crunch that balances the sweetness, while the tangy cream cheese frosting ties everything together into irresistible perfection.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Dough
Warm milk (1 cup) – Activates the yeast and provides moisture for a tender dough.
Granulated sugar (¼ cup) – Feeds the yeast and adds sweetness to the dough.
Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp, or one packet) – Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
Unsalted butter, melted (⅓ cup) – Adds richness and softness to the rolls.
Large eggs (2, room temperature) – Provide structure and richness.
All-purpose flour (4 – 4 ½ cups) – The base of the dough, giving it structure.
Salt (1 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Filling
Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup) – Helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the dough.
Brown sugar (1 cup) – Melts into a caramel-like filling with a deeper sweetness than white sugar.
Ground cinnamon (2 ½ tbsp) – The star spice, warm and fragrant.
Chopped walnuts, toasted (1 cup) – Add crunch, flavor depth, and a nutty contrast.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream cheese, softened (4 oz) – Creamy, tangy base for the frosting.
Unsalted butter, softened (¼ cup) – Adds richness and smooth texture.
Powdered sugar (1 ½ cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor with warm sweetness.
Milk (1–2 tbsp, optional) – Adjusts consistency for drizzling or spreading.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix in the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead for 6–8 minutes (by hand or with a stand mixer) until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Filling
1. In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan for 3–4 minutes, then chop.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
1. Punch down the dough and roll it into a 16x12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
2. Spread the dough with softened butter, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture and walnuts.
3. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls.
4. Place rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
Step 4: Bake
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
1. Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.
3. Adjust consistency with a splash of milk if desired.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Spread or drizzle the frosting over warm rolls so it melts slightly into the swirls. Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey perfection.
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Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
Soft and pillowy texture – Thanks to a well-risen yeast dough.
Nutty crunch – Walnuts bring contrast and depth.
Perfectly spiced filling – Sweet, warm, and fragrant.
Creamy frosting – Rich yet tangy, balancing the sweetness.
Make-ahead friendly – You can refrigerate unbaked rolls overnight and bake fresh in the morning.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
Don’t rush the rise – Proper proofing is key for fluffy rolls.
Use room temperature ingredients – Ensures smooth mixing and better dough development.
Slice rolls cleanly – Use dental floss or a sharp knife for even slices without squishing the dough.
Frost while warm – This allows the frosting to seep into the rolls for maximum gooeyness.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with a cup of hot coffee, chai, or hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy pairing.
Add fresh fruit, like orange slices or berries, to brighten the richness.
Make it a brunch spread with scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh juice alongside these indulgent rolls.
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Final Thoughts
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a recipe—they’re a ritual of warmth, comfort, and indulgence. With their airy dough, sweet cinnamon-walnut filling, and creamy frosting, they’re guaranteed to impress your famil
y and friends. Whether baked for a holiday breakfast or a simple weekend treat, this recipe delivers bakery-quality cinnamon rolls from the comfort of your own kitchen.
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