Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in these delightful pistachio rolls, filled with nutty goodness and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion!

Skylar Jennings

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-21T00:50:55.936Z

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls offer a unique twist on the traditional cinnamon roll, infusing the nutty flavor of pistachios with a creamy frosting that will leave you wanting more. Whether for brunch or a sweet treat, these rolls are sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich pistachio flavor complemented by smooth cream cheese frosting
  • Fluffy texture with a delightful nutty crunch
  • Perfect for brunch gatherings or special occasions

The Joy of Baking with Pistachios

Pistachios are not just a tasty nut; they also bring a unique flavor profile to baked goods. Their rich, buttery taste and slight sweetness enhance the overall experience of any dish. When incorporated into rolls, they provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy dough. Moreover, these vibrant green nuts are packed with nutrients, making them a wholesome addition to your baking repertoire.

Using pistachios in your baking is an excellent way to experiment with flavors. Their natural oils contribute moisture to the dough, ensuring that each bite is tender and flavorful. In these Perfect Pistachio Rolls, the nuts lend their distinct taste, creating a truly memorable dessert or snack that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Cream Cheese Frosting: A Match Made in Heaven

The luscious cream cheese frosting that tops these pistachio rolls is a game-changer. Its tangy sweetness complements the nutty flavor of the rolls, creating a harmonious balance in every bite. The creamy texture of the frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence, making these rolls an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Crafting the perfect cream cheese frosting is simple. By using softened cream cheese and butter, you can achieve a smooth consistency that spreads easily over the warm rolls. A touch of vanilla extract amplifies the flavor, while the powdered sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. Adjusting the consistency with a splash of milk ensures that your frosting is perfectly spreadable, enhancing the overall presentation of your delicious creation.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself on a cozy weekend morning, these rolls are sure to impress. Their beautiful appearance, combined with the delightful aroma of baking pistachios, will captivate your guests and make any gathering feel special.

Furthermore, they are versatile enough to serve any time of day. Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack. You can even serve them as a dessert, drizzled with extra frosting or sprinkled with additional chopped pistachios for a stunning presentation. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these rolls will become a beloved staple in your baking collection.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon milk (as needed for consistency)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and melted butter.

Add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Make the Filling

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread melted butter on the surface and sprinkle chopped pistachios and cardamom evenly. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Bake the Rolls

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. If needed, add milk to reach desired consistency.

Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade pistachio rolls with family and friends!

Storage Tips

To keep your Perfect Pistachio Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. For best results, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their fluffy texture before serving.

If you have leftover rolls (which is rare!), you can also freeze them. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the filling of these pistachio rolls! You can add chocolate chips for a decadent twist or incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a burst of flavor. Additionally, swapping in different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can create a new and exciting taste experience.

For a spicier version, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. This will enhance the flavor profile and give your rolls a warm, comforting aroma. You can also drizzle a caramel or chocolate sauce over the frosted rolls for an extra indulgent treat.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling.

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What can I substitute for pistachios?

You can use walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.

→ How long do these rolls last?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in these delightful pistachio rolls, filled with nutty goodness and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Skylar Jennings

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

For the Rolls

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/2 cup milk
  3. 1/4 cup sugar
  4. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  5. 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  6. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  7. 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
  8. 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 1 cup powdered sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1 tablespoon milk (as needed for consistency)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Step 02

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread melted butter on the surface and sprinkle chopped pistachios and cardamom evenly. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 03

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 04

While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. If needed, add milk to reach desired consistency.

Step 05

Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g