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, making them perfect for any occasion.

Aubrey Collins

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-20T23:46:02.445Z

The combination of pistachios and cream cheese creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. These rolls are perfect for brunch or as a sweet snack during the day.

Why You'll Love These Rolls

  • Deliciously nutty flavor from the pistachios
  • Creamy and smooth cream cheese frosting
  • Ideal for sharing at gatherings or special occasions

The Magic of Pistachios

Pistachios are often called the 'happy nut' for good reason. Their unique flavor and vibrant green color not only elevate the aesthetic of any dish but also add a wealth of nutritional benefits. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these nuts contribute to a balanced diet while satisfying your cravings. In these Perfect Pistachio Rolls, the nutty essence of pistachios shines through, providing a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy dough.

Beyond their taste and health benefits, pistachios also offer a delightful crunch that enhances the overall texture of the rolls. When folded into the dough, they not only infuse it with flavor but also create a satisfying bite. This delightful combination of flavors and textures makes these rolls an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Cream Cheese Frosting: A Perfect Match

Cream cheese frosting is a classic choice for sweet treats, and for good reason. Its rich, tangy flavor complements the sweetness of baked goods beautifully, creating a balanced dessert experience. In this recipe, the creamy frosting is the perfect finishing touch to the nutty pistachio rolls, enhancing their flavor and adding a luscious texture that melts in your mouth.

Making cream cheese frosting is straightforward and quick. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that is smooth and spreadable. The addition of milk allows you to adjust the consistency to your liking, making it easy to achieve the perfect spread for your rolls. Don't forget to sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a delightful treat to share with friends and family, these Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to impress. Their unique flavor combination and stunning appearance make them a standout addition to any dessert table. Plus, they are easy to make, allowing you to whip them up without a fuss.

Serving these rolls warm, fresh out of the oven, creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings. The inviting aroma of baking pistachios fills the room, setting the stage for a delightful culinary experience. No matter the occasion, these rolls are bound to be a hit, leaving everyone asking for the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup crushed pistachios
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until a dough forms.

Add Pistachios and Roll Out

Fold in the crushed pistachios into the dough. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Shape the Rolls

Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Bake the Rolls

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let cool.

Make the Frosting

While the rolls are cooling, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.

Frost the Rolls

Once the rolls have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. Optionally, sprinkle additional crushed pistachios for garnish.

Enjoy your delicious Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting!

Tips for Perfect Rolls

To ensure your Perfect Pistachio Rolls turn out fluffy and delicious, be careful not to overmix the dough. Mixing just until combined will keep the rolls tender. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened but not melting; this helps create a light texture in your rolls. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, you can toast the crushed pistachios lightly before adding them to the dough.

Another helpful tip is to let the rolls cool slightly before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and ensures it stays beautifully spreadable. If you're preparing the rolls in advance, you can bake them a day ahead and frost them just before serving for the best results.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

For an extra special treat, pair your pistachio rolls with a cup of coffee or tea. The nutty flavor of the rolls complements the warmth of these beverages beautifully, making for a delightful afternoon snack. You can also serve the rolls at parties, where they will surely be the star of the dessert table!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsalted butter for the frosting?

Yes, unsalted butter works perfectly for the frosting.

→ How should I store leftover rolls?

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

→ Can I freeze the rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the rolls after slicing them. Just make sure to thaw them before baking.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese.

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, making them perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Aubrey Collins

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. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 1/2 cup milk
  5. 1/2 cup crushed pistachios
  6. 2 teaspoons baking powder
  7. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  8. 1 large egg
  9. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

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

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until a dough forms.

Step 02

Fold in the crushed pistachios into the dough. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 03

Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 04

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let cool.

Step 05

While the rolls are cooling, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.

Step 06

Once the rolls have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. Optionally, sprinkle additional crushed pistachios for garnish.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 3g