Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast; 1/2 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup pistachios, finely chopped; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2-3 tbsp milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful combination of nutty pistachios and creamy frosting in these Perfect Pistachio Rolls. A sweet treat that will bring joy to any occasion.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-21T01:20:59.610Z

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, featuring a rich pistachio filling and a luscious cream cheese frosting. They are perfect for brunches, holidays, or simply when you need a sweet indulgence!

        Why You'll Love These Rolls
        Rich pistachio flavor balanced with creamy frosting
Fluffy texture that makes each bite a delight
A unique treat that impresses at any gathering

      

A Flavorful Twist on Classic Rolls

Pistachio rolls offer a delightful departure from traditional sweet rolls, marrying the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with soft, fluffy dough. The combination creates a unique treat that stands out not only in taste but also in presentation. Each bite brings a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness that makes these rolls an instant favorite among family and friends.

The addition of brown sugar and cinnamon in the filling enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth. This blend of flavors makes them perfect for special occasions, brunches, or simply as an indulgent snack. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste, perhaps by adding a hint of orange zest or substituting the pistachios with your favorite nuts.

The Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

What truly elevates these pistachio rolls is the luscious cream cheese frosting. Cream cheese adds a tangy richness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the rolls. This frosting is incredibly easy to make and can be adjusted to your desired consistency by varying the amount of milk you add. A thicker frosting can be dolloped on top, while a thinner glaze can drizzle beautifully over the rolls.

Feel free to get creative with the frosting! Adding a touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top can provide an extra layer of flavor and decoration. This frosting not only tastes fantastic but also gives your pistachio rolls a gourmet touch that is sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your pistachio rolls, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the milk, butter, and egg. This helps create a smooth, cohesive dough that rises well. If you want a quicker rise, you can place the dough in a slightly warm oven or near a warm stovetop, but be careful not to overheat it.

Another important tip is to let the rolls cool slightly before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off the rolls. For optimal flavor, consider letting the frosted rolls sit for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the frosting to set just a bit and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious pistachio rolls:

Pistachio Roll Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

Pistachio Filling

1/2 cup pistachios, finely chopped
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Cream Cheese Frosting

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2-3 tbsp milk

Make sure you have everything ready for a delicious baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Perfect Pistachio Rolls:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Stir in warm milk, melted butter, and the egg until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pistachios, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined.

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the dough.

Shape the Rolls

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Bake the Rolls

Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Add milk as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.

Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Now you can enjoy these delicious rolls with your favorite beverage!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though they are likely to disappear quickly!), store the pistachio rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply warm the rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back their delightful softness.

If you've already frosted the rolls, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator, as the cream cheese frosting can spoil at room temperature. When reheating, do so gently to avoid overheating the frosting.

Serving Suggestions

These pistachio rolls can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of beverages. A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the nutty flavors beautifully. For a more festive touch, serve them alongside a fruit compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Consider using these rolls for special occasions such as brunch gatherings or holiday celebrations. Their unique flavor and visually appealing appearance make them a show-stopping centerpiece on any dessert table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just let them rise and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.