Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are everything you want in a homemade sweet roll—pillowy dough, a rich cinnamon filling, crunchy walnuts, and a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into every swirl.
These rolls are perfect for weekend mornings, holidays, or whenever you want a warm, bakery-style treat right at home.
Yield and Timing
Makes 12 rolls
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 1½–2 hours
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (not hot)
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (to desired consistency)
Preparation
Make the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1½ hours until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
Shape the Rolls
Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 10×15 inches).
Spread softened butter over the surface.
Sprinkle evenly with cinnamon sugar and chopped walnuts.
Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
Place rolls in a greased baking dish.
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.
Make the Frosting
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until creamy.
Finish
Spread frosting over warm rolls so it melts slightly into the swirls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Milk
- Fresh fruit
Storage
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheat gently before serving.
Why These Rolls Are So Loved
The soft, airy dough combined with sweet cinnamon filling and crunchy walnuts creates the perfect texture. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy sweetness that makes these rolls irresistible.
Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are a comforting, homemade treat that always feels special.
