Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with a rich and creamy frosting. Perfect for any occasion!

Isla Turner

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:36:40.141Z

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are not just easy to make, but they also bring a touch of elegance to any dessert table. The combination of fluffy dough, nutty pistachios, and a luscious cream cheese frosting makes them irresistible!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich pistachio flavor with a creamy frosting
  • Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a special treat

The Magic of Pistachios

Pistachios are not just a delicious nut; they are packed with flavor and nutrition. Their unique taste adds a rich, earthy element that perfectly complements sweet treats. In these Perfect Pistachio Rolls, the finely chopped pistachios enhance both the texture and flavor, creating a delightful contrast with the soft, fluffy dough. Plus, they provide a good source of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making this treat a guilt-free indulgence.

Incorporating pistachios into your baking not only elevates the taste but also adds a pop of color. The vibrant green hue of the nuts makes these rolls visually appealing, perfect for special occasions or gatherings. Whether you are a pistachio lover or a newcomer to this nutty delight, these rolls are sure to impress your friends and family with their unique flavor and beautiful presentation.

Frosting That Elevates

No roll is complete without a luscious frosting, and the cream cheese frosting in this recipe is simply irresistible. The cream cheese adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness perfectly, making every bite a harmonious explosion of flavor. It’s easy to whip up and can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter frosting, simply add more powdered sugar; for a creamier texture, a splash of milk will do the trick.

This frosting isn’t just for these pistachio rolls; it can be used on a variety of baked goods, from cinnamon rolls to carrot cake. Its versatility makes it a staple in any baker’s kitchen. The combination of cream cheese and butter creates a smooth, spreadable frosting that holds its shape beautifully, ensuring your rolls look as good as they taste.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a cozy family gathering, these rolls are the perfect centerpiece. Their delightful flavor and appealing appearance are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

These rolls are also great for meal prep or make-ahead options. You can prepare the dough in advance, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. This way, you can bake them fresh in the morning, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods. Serve them warm with a generous dollop of frosting, and watch as smiles light up the room.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, salt, and egg, mixing well.

Gradually add flour to form a dough.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Roll and Fill

Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle chopped pistachios evenly over the surface. Roll tightly and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Bake

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Add milk if desired for a thinner consistency.

Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve and enjoy!

Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting for the best texture.

Storage Tips

To keep your Perfect Pistachio Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can also refrigerate them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving, or warm them slightly in the oven for that freshly-baked taste.

If you have leftovers, consider freezing the rolls for later enjoyment. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven.

Variations to Try

While the classic pistachio and cream cheese combination is hard to beat, feel free to experiment with different flavors! Consider adding a hint of almond extract to the dough for an extra layer of flavor. You could also fold in chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for a unique twist.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top of the cream cheese frosting before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative with these delightful rolls.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover rolls?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

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

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with a rich and creamy frosting. Perfect for any occasion!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Isla Turner

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. 1/4 cup sugar
  3. 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  4. 1/2 cup milk, warmed
  5. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  6. 1/2 tsp salt
  7. 1 large egg
  8. 1 cup finely chopped pistachios

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 2 cups powdered sugar
  4. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  5. 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, salt, and egg, mixing well. Gradually add flour to form a dough.

Step 02

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 03

Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle chopped pistachios evenly over the surface. Roll tightly and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 04

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 05

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Add milk if desired for a thinner consistency.

Step 06

Once the rolls are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 18g
  • Protein: 5g