Introduction
Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls are a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls. These sweet and nutty treats feature a rich cream cheese filling and a luscious pecan topping, making them the perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. The combination of creamy filling, crunchy pecans, and soft, fluffy rolls is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Who This Recipe Is For
This recipe is for anyone who enjoys the indulgent flavors of cream cheese and pecans in a warm and gooey cinnamon roll. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a comforting treat, Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls are an excellent choice.
The Appeal of Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls
The charm of these rolls lies in their creamy and nutty goodness. The addition of cream cheese to the filling elevates the classic cinnamon roll to a whole new level of indulgence.
Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have these ingredients ready:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Let’s dive into the steps to create these delectable Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, heat the whole milk and unsalted butter until it’s warm, not hot. Stir occasionally to melt the butter.
- Add the warm milk mixture and the large egg to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of all-purpose flour to the dough, kneading it until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and pure vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle on a floured surface, approximately 16×12 inches.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the prepared pecan topping over the cream cheese filling.
- Starting with a long side, roll up the dough into a log, then slice it into 12 equal rolls.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
- Allow the Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- These rolls are best enjoyed while still warm, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Glaze
- If you prefer a sweeter finish, you can add a cream cheese or powdered sugar glaze on top of the rolls.
Nuts
- Feel free to customize the topping with your favorite nuts, like walnuts or almonds, if you prefer.
Cinnamon
- You can adjust the amount of ground cinnamon in the pecan topping to suit your taste.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these rolls in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the rolls, cover them, and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, simply let them come to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I freeze these rolls? A: Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Thaw and reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover rolls? A: To maintain their freshness, reheat the rolls in the oven for a few minutes or use the microwave for a quick warm-up.
In Conclusion
Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls are a delectable treat that combines the creaminess of the filling with the nutty crunch of pecans. Whether you’re indulging in these rolls as a special breakfast or serving them as a delightful dessert, they are sure to please with their sweet and nutty flavors. So, follow the steps, add your favorite toppings, and savor the deliciousness of Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls. Enjoy!
