Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are the epitome of comfort baking — golden spirals of tender dough swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and nutty crunch, then crowned with luscious cream cheese frosting. These rolls are indulgent yet heartwarming, perfect for cozy breakfasts, special brunches, or as a sweet afternoon treat. Their irresistible aroma of cinnamon and warm dough fills the kitchen with homely bliss.

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Origin and Cultural Significance

Cinnamon rolls trace their roots to Northern Europe, especially Sweden and Denmark, where “Kanelbullar” became a cultural icon — enjoyed during fika, the cherished Swedish coffee break. When the recipe spread to North America, it evolved into the cream cheese–frosted classic we know today, often served during holidays and celebrations.

Adding walnuts pays homage to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern traditions, where nuts symbolize abundance and festivity. Thus, these cinnamon-walnut rolls beautifully bridge cultures — combining Scandinavian spice, American sweetness, and Old World elegance.

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Ingredients Quantity

Dough:

7 tablespoons (80 g) sugar

1 teaspoon (4 g) dry yeast

1 cup (250 ml) lukewarm milk

1 large egg

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon (4 g) salt

Filling:

⅓ cup (80 g) unsalted butter, softened

½ cup (80 g) sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or to taste)

½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts

Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons butter, softened

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar

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Optional Additions

Add raisins or chopped dates for sweetness and texture.

Swap walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts for a different nutty aroma.

Add orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.

Use brown sugar instead of white for deeper caramel tones.

Top with caramel drizzle or maple glaze for extra indulgence.

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Tips for Success

1. Activate yeast properly: Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) — around 100°F (38°C) — to wake the yeast without killing it.

2. Knead until smooth: The dough should be elastic and slightly tacky, not sticky.

3. Allow enough rise time: Patience gives the rolls their signature fluffiness.

4. Don’t overfill: Too much butter or sugar in the filling can cause leaking during baking.

5. Cool slightly before frosting: Apply frosting while warm (not hot) so it melts beautifully.

6. Use bread flour (optional): For extra light and fluffy texture.

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, combine lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Make the Dough:
Add egg, oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour while mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise:
Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Filling:
Mix softened butter, sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts in a bowl.

5. Shape the Rolls:
Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick). Spread the filling evenly over the surface. Roll up tightly from one long edge to form a log. Slice into 10–12 rolls.

6. Second Rise:
Arrange rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving slight space between each. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

7. Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

8. Prepare the Frosting:
Beat cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

9. Frost and Serve:
Spread frosting over warm rolls. Garnish with extra chopped walnuts if desired. Serve warm.

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Description

The finished cinnamon-walnut rolls are pillowy soft, golden on the outside, and buttery within. Each swirl reveals ribbons of cinnamon sugar and crunchy toasted walnuts, creating a divine contrast of textures. The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect tangy sweetness, melting slightly into the warm rolls to create a luxurious glaze. The result: rich, aromatic, and utterly irresistible.

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Nutritional Information (Per Roll, Approx.)

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 6 g

Fat: 14 g

Carbohydrates: 42 g

Fiber: 2 g

Sugar: 18 g

Sodium: 190 mg
(Values vary depending on frosting thickness and portion size.)

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Conclusion

Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls are a timeless classic — a dessert or breakfast that feels like a warm hug. Their perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and nuttiness captures the essence of homemade baking. Every bite is a celebration of texture and flavor — tender dough, fragrant cinnamon, crunchy walnuts, and silky frosting in perfect harmony.

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Recommendation

Best Served With:

Freshly brewed coffee or chai tea

A glass of warm milk or hot chocolate

Fresh berries or sliced apples on the side

Perfect Occasions:

Weekend brunches

Holiday breakfasts

Afternoon tea gatherings or cozy family mornings

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Embracing Healthful Indulgence

These cinnamon-walnut rolls remind us that indulgence can be mindful and meaningful. Made with real ingredients — flour, milk, nuts, and love — they celebrate comfort without excess. The walnuts add healthy fats, while cinnamon offers natural warmth and balance. Enjoy them slowly, savoring each tender bite as an act of joy and gratitude — proof that a little sweetness can nourish the soul as much as the body.