The Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. With its delightful flavors and comforting texture, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet afternoon snack. I love how the cream cheese and pecan filling creates a velvety and nutty experience that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients for Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe
These rolls are wonderfully simple to make, and they only require a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet of active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
- ½ cup milk, warmed
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
Cream cheese filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Pecan topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp cinnamon
How to Make Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk to about 110°F. Combine it with the sugar and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast, which is essential for fluffy rolls.
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Then pour in the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This rising time is crucial for achieving soft and fluffy rolls.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While waiting for the dough, make the cream cheese filling. Mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and smooth, perfect for spreading over the dough.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. This will be the base for your rolls.
Step 5: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough. Leave about a half-inch border around the edges. This will help seal the rolls when you cut and roll them up.
Step 6: Add the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. The addition of pecans really gives these rolls a lovely crunch!
Step 7: Roll It Up
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. It’s important to roll it evenly to ensure all the filling stays inside. Once rolled, pinch the seams to seal the edges.
Step 8: Cut the Rolls
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal portions. Place each roll in a greased baking dish. It’s nice to leave a bit of space between them, as they will expand during the second rise.
Step 9: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This gives them a chance to puff up before baking, resulting in fluffier rolls.
Step 10: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once the rolls have risen, bake them for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown. The smell while they bake will make you want to dive right in.
Step 11: Serve Warm
Once baked, let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm. The cream cheese filling will be gooey and delicious.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls
Making these rolls is straightforward, but here are some tips that help elevate your baking game:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother filling and a better dough.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Letting the dough rise properly is pivotal. A warm environment makes a big difference in the dough’s rising time.
- Use Fresh Pecans: Toasting the pecans will elevate their flavor. Just a few minutes in the oven before using them can add a wonderful nutty depth.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar in the cream cheese filling based on your preference. Some likes it sweeter!
Storing and Freezing Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely), you can store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen.
To freeze, place the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls shine on their own but can be paired with various accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy them with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
- Drizzle of Glaze: A simple powdered sugar glaze can add a sweet touch.
- Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Pecan cream cheese rolls are fantastic for many occasions. Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a casual weekend brunch, they will impress everyone at the table. You can even modify the fillings with other nuts or spices for variety.
Baking pecan cream cheese rolls is a delightful experience that results in a delicious treat that everyone loves. The mix of creamy filling, crunchy pecans, and soft dough makes each bite enjoyable. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and share it with loved ones.