Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in these delightful Perfect Pistachio Rolls topped with a creamy frosting that takes your taste buds on a journey of flavor.

Arabella Scott

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:09:43.973Z

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining the nutty flavor of pistachios with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich pistachio flavor that everyone adores
  • Creamy cream cheese frosting that adds a perfect touch
  • Great for any occasion, from brunch to dessert

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Pistachio rolls are a versatile treat that can brighten up any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch, a festive holiday party, or simply looking for a sweet dessert to enjoy at home, these rolls are sure to impress. Their delightful flavor and soft texture make them a hit among both children and adults alike.

These delicious rolls can also be customized to fit various occasions. Consider adding a hint of citrus zest or a sprinkle of chocolate chips to the filling for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a signature version that your friends and family will rave about.

A Journey Through Flavor

The rich, nutty flavor of pistachios pairs beautifully with the warm sweetness of cinnamon and brown sugar. Each bite of these Perfect Pistachio Rolls delivers a wonderful harmony of tastes that tantalizes the palate. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates the experience, making these rolls a decadent treat that you won’t soon forget.

Moreover, the combination of flavors and textures ensures that every bite is a delightful surprise. The crunch of the pistachios contrasts with the softness of the dough, while the creamy frosting adds a luscious finish. This unique blend of taste and texture is what sets these rolls apart from other sweet treats.

Tips for Perfect Rolls

To achieve the perfect pistachio rolls, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure consistency, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. Additionally, kneading the dough properly is crucial; you want it to be smooth and elastic, which ensures a light and fluffy texture after baking.

Another important tip is to allow the dough to rise adequately. The warm environment helps activate the yeast, leading to a soft and airy roll. Be patient during this process, as it significantly contributes to the final product's quality.

Ingredients

Dough

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

Filling

  • 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, mix warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing 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 about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix chopped pistachios, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Roll Out Dough

Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the dough.

Roll and Cut

Carefully roll the dough into a log, then slice into 12 equal pieces. Place rolls in a greased baking dish.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool.

Make the Frosting

While the rolls cool, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Spread over the cooled rolls.

Enjoy your delicious pistachio rolls!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the pistachio rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a roll, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it briefly in the microwave or oven. A quick reheat will restore their delightful texture, making them taste freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a more indulgent dessert, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

Additionally, you can get creative with toppings! Drizzle some melted chocolate over the frosting or sprinkle chopped pistachios for an added crunch. Such additions will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add an exciting flavor dimension.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use raw pistachios?

Yes, but roasted pistachios enhance the flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze them before frosting for up to a month.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese for a different flavor profile.

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in these delightful Perfect Pistachio Rolls topped with a creamy frosting that takes your taste buds on a journey of flavor.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Arabella Scott

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

Dough

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

Filling

  1. 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
  2. 1/4 cup brown sugar
  3. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  4. 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Frosting

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 2 cups powdered sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 2 tablespoons milk

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, mix warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 02

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 about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 03

In a bowl, mix chopped pistachios, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 04

Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the dough.

Step 05

Carefully roll the dough into a log, then slice into 12 equal pieces. Place rolls in a greased baking dish.

Step 06

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool.

Step 07

While the rolls cool, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Spread over the cooled rolls.

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