Introduction
Welcome to the world of soft and fluffy cinnamon walnut rolls! There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. As you pull these delightful rolls out of the oven, their golden-brown tops glistening with a sweet glaze, you’ll know you’ve created a moment to savor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat, these rolls combine rich cinnamon, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of vanilla for a taste that will transport you to comfort food heaven.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, stirring gently until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic to the touch.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped walnuts in a small bowl.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough, followed by the cinnamon walnut mixture.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly to form a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When ready, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until they are beautifully golden brown.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth.
- After removing the rolls from the oven, allow them to cool slightly before drizzling the icing generously over the warm rolls.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a handful of additional chopped walnuts on top of the icing for a delightful crunch. These rolls are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days. If they start to harden, a quick zap in the microwave for a few seconds will bring back their softness.
Cooking Techniques
The key to these rolls being soft and fluffy lies in proper kneading and rising. Kneading helps develop the gluten in the flour, creating a tender structure, while allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment ensures that it expands beautifully. Don’t skip either step!
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then refrigerate them overnight. Just let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking the next morning.
What can I substitute for the walnuts?
If walnuts aren’t your style or if you have allergies, feel free to use pecans or even omit nuts altogether for a classic cinnamon roll experience.
Conclusion
These soft and fluffy cinnamon walnut rolls are a wonderful treat to share with family and friends, bringing warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With their rich flavors and soft texture, they’re sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy each bite knowing you’ve created something truly special!