Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly (this indicates the yeast is active).
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the eggs, melted butter, and activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes using the dough hook of a stand mixer, until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon-Walnut Filling
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and chopped walnuts. Mix until you have a smooth, spreadable filling.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches in size.
- Spread the Filling:
- Evenly spread the cinnamon-walnut filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the Dough:
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Step 4: Slice and Let Rise Again
- Slice the Rolls:
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss (for a cleaner cut), slice the log into 12-15 even rolls.
- Let the Rolls Rise:
- Place the rolls, cut side up, into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Step 5: Bake the Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls
- Preheat the Oven:
- While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Rolls:
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. The tops should be lightly browned, but still soft.
- Cool Slightly:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before adding the frosting.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and gradually sift in the powdered sugar, beating until combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
- Frost the Rolls:
- Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon-walnut rolls, allowing it to melt slightly and coat each roll.
- Serve:
- Serve the rolls warm, with extra frosting on the side if desired. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but can also be reheated for a quick treat the next day.
Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead:
- You can prepare the rolls the night before by assembling them and letting them rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Cutting the Rolls:
- For perfect, clean slices, use dental floss to cut through the dough log. Slide a piece of floss under the dough, cross the ends over the top, and pull to slice cleanly.
- Don’t Overbake:
- Keep a close eye on the rolls during the last few minutes of baking. You want them to be soft and fluffy, not dry.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls:
- Incredibly Soft and Fluffy:
- The dough is enriched with butter and eggs, creating a wonderfully soft, tender texture that practically melts in your mouth.
- Perfectly Balanced Filling:
- The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and walnuts adds depth and texture, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Rich, creamy, and slightly tangy, the frosting perfectly complements the sweetness of the rolls, making them utterly irresistible.
These Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate indulgence. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they will fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma and leave everyone wanting more. Perfectly soft with a crunchy walnut surprise and finished with a rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls are a must-try!