Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls

These Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect blend of nutty pistachio butter and the sweet, warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar. The soft, fluffy dough is filled with a rich pistachio butter filling, topped with a luxurious pistachio cream cheese icing. This small-batch recipe is ideal for a weekend breakfast or a special treat, and it’s easy to make without needing any special equipment. Whether you’re a fan of pistachios or just love a good cinnamon roll, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • ¾ cup milk of choice (180ml), warmed (~110°F)

  • 2 ½ tsp (11g) active dry yeast

  • 1 egg, at room temperature

  • ⅓ cup (76g) salted butter, very softened (almost melted)

  • ¼ cup (55g) granulated sugar, divided

  • ½ tsp (3g) salt

  • 2 ½ cups (350g) bread flour (substitute with all-purpose flour if preferred)

For the Filling:

  • ½ cup (115g) pistachio cream or butter

  • ½ cup (110g) brown sugar

  • 1 tbsp (8g) cinnamon

  • ½ cup (50g) chopped pistachios

  • ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream, for pouring over the rolls

For the Pistachio Cream Cheese Icing:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ¼ cup (55g) pistachio cream or butter

  • 1 ½ cups (195g) powdered sugar

  • 2 tsp (8g) vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough:
    Pour the warm milk into a large bowl, add 1 tablespoon of sugar, and sprinkle the yeast over the milk. Stir and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the egg, butter, and the remaining sugar, then mix well. Add the flour and salt, stirring to combine. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Otherwise, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.

  2. Let the Dough Rise:
    Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

  3. Prepare the Filling and Assemble the Rolls:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10.5×7.5” or 8” round pan with butter. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12×8” rectangle. Spread the pistachio cream over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture and chopped pistachios over the cream. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 6 rolls.

  4. Let the Rolls Rise:
    Place the rolls in the prepared pan, cover them loosely with plastic wrap, and let them proof for 30-45 minutes in a warm place until puffy.

  5. Bake the Rolls:
    Once the rolls have risen, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 23-30 minutes, or until golden brown. While baking, prepare the icing.

  6. Make the Pistachio Cream Cheese Icing:
    Beat together the softened cream cheese, pistachio cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.

  7. Assemble and Serve:
    Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Pour the warm heavy cream over the rolls, then spread the pistachio cream cheese icing over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 53g

    • Sugar: 35g

  • Protein: 8g

  • Fat: 22g

    • Saturated Fat: 8g

  • Sodium: 300mg

  • Potassium: 200mg

  • Cholesterol: 55mg

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 35g

  • Vitamin A: 400 IU

  • Vitamin C: 0mg

  • Calcium: 60mg

  • Iron: 1mg

Why These Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls Are So Special

The beauty of these Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls lies in their perfect balance of textures and flavors. The dough itself is light and fluffy, thanks to the combination of bread flour and the addition of warm milk and yeast. The dough rises to create soft rolls with just the right amount of chew. It’s also perfectly complemented by the sweet and nutty filling, which incorporates pistachio butter and a touch of cinnamon for warmth.

The pistachio cream filling is one of the highlights of these rolls. While cinnamon rolls are typically filled with a sweet cinnamon and sugar mixture, the pistachio butter adds a creamy richness that takes these rolls to the next level. The nutty, slightly savory flavor of the pistachio cream pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a filling that is both indulgent and balanced.

Then there’s the pistachio cream cheese icing. Once the rolls are baked, they are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, which is enriched with more pistachio cream. This icing adds a tangy, creamy element that contrasts with the richness of the filling, and it’s just the perfect finishing touch that brings everything together.

With these Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls, you get the satisfaction of a homemade dessert without making a huge batch that might go to waste. This recipe ensures that everyone gets a fresh, warm cinnamon roll, perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.

The Importance of Using Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

When making Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls, the quality of your ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Using fresh yeast, for example, will help ensure that the dough rises properly and gives you that soft, fluffy texture that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible. Additionally, the pistachio cream or pistachio butter used in the filling should be of high quality. The pistachios themselves contribute to the flavor, so choosing a smooth, creamy pistachio butter will make a noticeable difference in the final result.

The addition of brown sugar and cinnamon to the filling adds warmth and depth, while the granulated sugar in the dough provides sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. The combination of salted butter and whole milk ensures that the dough is rich and soft, contributing to the perfect texture when baked.

The pistachio cream cheese icing is another essential component that can be elevated with fresh, quality ingredients. Softened cream cheese, along with a good amount of pistachio cream, ensures that the icing is smooth and luxurious, offering just the right amount of sweetness and tang.

The Rise of the Dough: Patience Is Key

The process of making these cinnamon rolls is relatively straightforward, but the key to achieving the perfect texture lies in allowing the dough to rise properly. After you’ve mixed the dough, it’s essential to let it rest and rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes or until it has doubled in size. This allows the yeast to work its magic, creating that light, airy texture that makes cinnamon rolls so enjoyable to eat.

During the second rise, after the rolls have been shaped and placed in the baking pan, patience is once again required. Allow the rolls to proof for another 30-45 minutes until they are puffy and slightly expanded. This second rise is crucial to ensuring that the rolls bake up soft and fluffy, rather than dense. The dough absorbs the pistachio butter filling well, creating a moist, rich roll that’s filled with flavor.

Baking the Rolls to Perfection

When baking Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls, timing is important to ensure they are golden brown on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. The rolls need to bake for approximately 23-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C), depending on your oven. The goal is to achieve a golden brown color and ensure the rolls are fully cooked through without becoming too dry.

Baking these rolls results in a beautifully fragrant kitchen, as the aroma of cinnamon, sugar, and freshly baked dough fills the air. The pistachio butter filling begins to caramelize slightly, creating pockets of flavor in each roll. As the rolls bake, the edges crisp up a little while the interior remains soft and tender, perfect for absorbing the pistachio cream cheese icing.

Pistachio Cream Cheese Icing: The Finishing Touch

The final step in making Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls is the pistachio cream cheese icing, which is what truly makes these rolls decadent. The creamy, tangy icing is rich with the flavor of pistachio cream, which complements the nutty filling and adds another layer of sweetness to the rolls.

The icing is easy to prepare and can be made while the rolls are baking. Once the rolls are out of the oven and have cooled slightly, the icing can be spread generously over the top, adding a luxurious creamy finish. The pistachio cream cheese icing is spread evenly over the rolls, ensuring every bite is full of indulgent, nutty goodness.

For an extra touch of elegance, you can sprinkle additional chopped pistachios over the icing to give the rolls a bit of crunch and visual appeal. The pistachio topping not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture to each bite, making them even more satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend breakfast, as a special treat for a family gathering, or for a cozy afternoon snack, these rolls are guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of cinnamon, pistachio, and the cream cheese icing makes them an indulgent yet balanced dessert or breakfast item.

These rolls are also perfect for sharing. Since the recipe makes a small batch, it’s ideal for smaller gatherings or as a weekend project when you want something delicious without making an entire pan of rolls. They also make a great gift for friends or family members who appreciate homemade treats.

Conclusion

Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and indulgent twist on a classic favorite. The rich pistachio cream filling, the soft and fluffy dough, and the tangy cream cheese icing combine to create a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a weekend treat or something special to share with loved ones, these rolls are sure to impress. The balance of cinnamon, pistachio, and cream cheese flavors makes them a unique and flavorful addition to your baking repertoire. With their perfect texture, warm spices, and creamy finish, Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your home.

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