Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the delightful combination of nutty pistachio and creamy frosting in these Perfect Pistachio Rolls. Ideal for brunch or as a sweet treat, these soft, fluffy rolls are infused with rich pistachio flavor and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting that elevates every bite. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s a showstopper at any gathering.

Nora Ellis

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2025-11-14T12:19:05.484Z

The Perfect Pistachio Rolls are a personal favorite of many, combining the subtle flavor of pistachios with a sweet and creamy frosting.

The Perfect Brunch Treat

As a delightful addition to any brunch table, these Perfect Pistachio Rolls are bound to impress your guests. The unique flavor combination of nutty pistachios and creamy cream cheese frosting provides a fresh twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. Pair them with your favorite morning beverages, such as coffee or tea, and watch them disappear in no time. These rolls not only taste incredible but also make for beautiful presentation on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios.

Hosting a brunch? These rolls are a make-ahead option that saves you time on the big day. You can prepare the dough the night before, allow it to rise, and bake them fresh the following morning. Serving warm rolls straight from the oven will make your gathering truly special, ensuring that your friends and family feel pampered without the stress of morning prep.

Nutritional Benefits of Pistachios

Pistachios pack a nutritional punch, making these rolls not just delicious but also a bit healthier than other sweet treats. Rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, pistachios can help keep you feeling full longer. They also contain antioxidants and important vitamins that contribute to overall health. Incorporating these amazing nuts into your recipes is a simple way to boost the nutritional value of your baking, all while enjoying a unique and delicious flavor.

Using ground pistachios in your rolls elevates the flavor profile, creating a moist and tender texture. Their subtle nutty taste blends seamlessly into the soft dough, making each bite a satisfying experience. Plus, their vibrant green color adds a beautiful aesthetic that catches the eye, making these rolls as pleasing to look at as they are to eat.

Tips for Perfect Rolls

For best results when making these Perfect Pistachio Rolls, ensure the ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This allows the dough to rise properly and promotes even mixing. Always use fresh yeast to guarantee that your rolls will be light and fluffy. If your dough isn’t rising, it may be that your yeast is expired or the environment is too cold; make sure to find a warm spot for the dough to rise.

Another tip is to avoid over-kneading the dough. While a good kneading is essential, overworking the dough can lead to tough rolls. Aim for a soft, elastic texture and remember to let your dough rest adequately. Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting away. These little details will help you achieve perfect rolls every time!

Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 cup ground pistachios
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth preparation process.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes. Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and flour gradually until a soft dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread ground pistachios evenly. Roll tightly, slice into 12 pieces, and place them in a greased baking pan.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Thin with milk if necessary.

Frost and Serve

Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Perfect Pistachio Rolls!

Serving Suggestions

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them alongside a fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfait for a balanced brunch spread. They also make an excellent dessert, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an added touch, consider drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over the top for extra sweetness.

If you have leftovers (although unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their fluffy texture. You can also freeze unbaked rolls for later use. Just shape the rolls, place them in a pan, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before popping them in the oven.

Customizing the Recipe

Feel free to get creative with your Perfect Pistachio Rolls! You can add chocolate chips or dried fruit for added flavor and texture. For an even nuttier taste, substitute part of the ground pistachios with ground almonds or hazelnuts. If you're looking for a richer frosting, you can experiment by adding different extracts or flavored cream cheese varieties, such as almond or coconut.

Adjusting the sweetness to your liking is also easy. If you prefer a less sweet roll, reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or frosting. Remember to taste as you mix, and don't hesitate to make it your own. Baking is all about experimenting and finding the combinations that delight your palate.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls before the second rise. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

→ What can I substitute for pistachios?

You can use chopped walnuts or almonds as a substitute if desired.

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Savor the delightful combination of nutty pistachio and creamy frosting in these Perfect Pistachio Rolls. Ideal for brunch or as a sweet treat, these soft, fluffy rolls are infused with rich pistachio flavor and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting that elevates every bite. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s a showstopper at any gathering.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time55 minutes

Created by: Nora Ellis

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

For the Rolls

  1. 4 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  3. 1/2 cup sugar
  4. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  5. 2 large eggs
  6. 1 packet active dry yeast
  7. 1 cup ground pistachios
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt

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 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes. Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and flour gradually until a soft dough forms.

Step 02

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 03

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread ground pistachios evenly. Roll tightly, slice into 12 pieces, and place them in a greased baking pan.

Step 04

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 05

While the rolls bake, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Thin with milk if necessary.

Step 06

Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrate: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 5g