Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm whole milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted if desired)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz softened cream cheese
• ¼ cup softened unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (adjust as needed)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the yeast and warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours.
2. Prepare the Filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle, spread butter, and sprinkle the sugar mixture and walnuts.
3. Roll and Slice: Roll the dough into a log, pinch the seam, and slice into 12 even rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
4. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool slightly.
5. Prepare the Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter, add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream. Spread over warm rolls.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Best enjoyed warm with coffee, tea, or milk.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat before serving.

Freezing: Rolls can be frozen before baking. Thaw overnight and let rise before baking.

Health Benefits:

• Walnuts: High in omega-3 fatty acids, great for heart and brain health.
• Cinnamon: Regulates blood sugar and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Homemade Dough: Avoids preservatives and additives, providing a fresher alternative.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll):

• Calories: ~320
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 18g

Variations and Substitutions:

• Nut Alternatives: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds, or omit nuts for a simpler roll.
• Add Fruits: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apples for extra flavor.
• Glaze Option: Swap cream cheese frosting for a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze.

Conclusion:

Soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor, these cinnamon-walnut rolls are a bakery-style treat you can enjoy at home. Whether for breakfast or a dessert, these rolls are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can treat yourself to a delicious homemade indulgence!