Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ground pistachios; 1/4 cup granulated 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; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tbsp milk (to reach desired consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful taste of Perfect Pistachio Rolls topped with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:51:36.266Z

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional sweet rolls, infused with the rich flavor of pistachios and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich nutty flavor combined with a creamy frosting
Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for brunches, parties, or a cozy dessert

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Perfect Pistachio Rolls are a delightful treat that beautifully combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with a luscious cream cheese frosting. The subtle sweetness of the rolls pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting, creating a decadent dessert that is hard to resist. Whether you're a fan of nuts or just looking for something unique to satisfy your sweet tooth, these rolls deliver on all fronts.

The inclusion of ground pistachios not only adds flavor but also a lovely green hue, making these rolls visually appealing. This makes them an excellent choice for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence any day of the week. The balance of flavors makes each bite a memorable experience.

Texture That Delights

One of the standout features of these Perfect Pistachio Rolls is their soft and fluffy texture. When baked to perfection, they melt in your mouth, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy frosting that tops them. This combination of light, airy rolls and rich frosting creates a delightful eating experience that is sure to impress your family and friends.

The texture is achieved through careful kneading and rising of the dough, allowing it to develop the right elasticity and softness. Once baked, the rolls have a slightly crisp exterior, giving way to a tender, pillowy interior. This delightful texture makes them not only enjoyable to eat but also incredibly satisfying.

Versatile for Any Occasion

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or simply looking for a cozy dessert to enjoy at home, these rolls are the perfect addition to your menu. Their unique flavor profile makes them a standout treat that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

You can also customize the rolls to suit your taste. Try adding a hint of orange zest to the frosting for a refreshing twist, or consider drizzling a little chocolate over the top for an extra indulgence. Their versatility ensures that they can be adapted for any gathering or celebration, making them a must-try recipe.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ground pistachios
1/4 cup granulated 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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp milk (to reach desired consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, ground pistachios, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

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

Shape the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle ground pistachios evenly. Roll tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.

Bake

Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before frosting.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Add milk as needed for desired consistency.

Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Perfect Pistachio Rolls turn out fluffy and delicious, pay attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Use warm milk to activate the yeast, but make sure it's not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. A gentle warmth is ideal for creating the perfect environment for the dough to rise.

Kneading the dough is another crucial step. It helps develop the gluten, giving the rolls their soft texture. Don't rush this process; knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour while kneading, but avoid adding too much to maintain the rolls' tenderness.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted rolls. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before frosting.

When serving, these rolls are best enjoyed warm. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over each roll just before serving for a delightful, gooey texture. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat that is perfect for any time of day.

Explore More Variations

While the classic Perfect Pistachio Rolls are a crowd-pleaser, don't hesitate to get creative with variations. Consider incorporating different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique flavor twist. You can also experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon or cardamom, to enhance the aroma and taste of the rolls.

Another fun idea is to turn these rolls into a sweet breakfast option by adding a layer of chocolate chips or dried fruit before rolling them up. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make these rolls a staple in your baking repertoire with endless flavor combinations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

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

→ How should I store the leftover rolls?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

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

→ Can I make these rolls vegan?

You can substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter and milk.