These cinnamon-walnut rolls are the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with the scent of warmth and nostalgia. Each roll is tender and pillowy, swirled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling and studded with finely chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Once baked to golden perfection, they’re crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into the spirals, creating a gooey, irresistible finish.
Perfect for weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or cozy evenings with tea, these rolls strike the balance between soft dough, spiced sweetness, and creamy indulgence. The dough is enriched with milk and butter, giving it a soft, almost brioche-like texture. The filling is bold and aromatic, while the frosting adds a tangy contrast that elevates every bite.
Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these rolls are a celebration of comfort and craft. They’re best served warm, fresh from the oven, with frosting dripping into every swirl.
🧺 INGREDIENTS:
For the Dough:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Add nutmeg or cardamom if using. Set aside.
Step 3: Roll & Fill
Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Starting from the long edge, roll tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
Step 4: Arrange & Rise Again
Place rolls in a greased baking dish, spaced slightly apart. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then milk to reach desired consistency. Spread generously over warm rolls.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Make Ahead: Prepare rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit walnuts or replace with raisins or chopped dates.
- Extra Gooey: Pour a splash of cream over the rolls before baking for added richness.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Would you like this added to your “Comfort Baking” collection or paired with a cozy drink like spiced chai or vanilla bean milk? I can also help you format it for printable cards or create a themed brunch set for your archive 🧁
