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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

Directions:

    Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine the yeast with warm milk to activate it. Let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it starts to bubble and froth.
In a large bowl, sift the flour, sugar, and salt together thoroughly.Pour in the yeast mixture along with the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until it has risen and doubled in size.

    Prepare the Filling:
Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a separate small bowl.
Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
Evenly spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture across the surface.. Then, scatter the chopped walnuts across the surface.

  Roll and Slice:
Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long side.. Pinch the seam to seal.
Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 even rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.

    Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden and are fully cooked. Remove and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until you reach a desired consistency.
Generously frost the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Serving and Storage Tips:

    Serving: Serve these cinnamon-walnut rolls warm for the best texture and flavor. They can be paired with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk.

    Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to two days. You can refrigerate them for up to a week, but warm them slightly before serving to retain the softness.

    Freezing: These rolls can be frozen before baking. After slicing, place them in a baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and let them rise for about an hour before baking.

Tips for Success:

Proofing the Dough: Be patient during the dough’s rise. A warm, draft-free environment works best. If the dough isn’t rising enough, try placing it in an oven with just the oven light on.

Even Spreading: Make sure the butter for the filling is at room temperature to make it easier to spread evenly over the dough.

    Perfectly Sliced Rolls: Using dental floss to slice the dough ensures cleaner cuts than using a knife, which can sometimes squish the dough.

Health Benefits:

Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are known to support heart health and cognitive function. They are also high in antioxidants and can contribute to overall wellness.
Cinnamon: This fragrant spice can help regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Homemade Dough: By making your own dough, you can avoid preservatives and additives commonly found in store-bought versions, contributing to a healthier, fresher result.

Nutritional Information (per roll):

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

Variations and Substitutions:

  Nut Alternatives: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. You can also omit nuts entirely for a simpler cinnamon roll.
  Add Fruits: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or even chopped apples to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
Glaze Variation: Instead of cream cheese frosting, you can opt for a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a lighter touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make these rolls the night before?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise for 30 minutes before baking.

Q: My rolls turned out dense. What went wrong?
A: Dense rolls typically result from under-proofed dough. Ensure your dough has risen sufficiently during the first proof and after shaping.

Q: Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made dough for a quicker option, though the texture and flavor might differ slightly from homemade dough.

Conclusion:

Soft, fluffy, and bursting with warm flavors, these cinnamon-walnut rolls with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or savored the next day, they make for a comforting and sweet indulgence. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a bakery-style experience right in your kitchen. So go ahead and treat yourself to these irresistible rolls—your taste buds will thank you!