If you’re ready to indulge in a bakery-worthy treat right at home, this White Chocolate Pistachio Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Imagine fluffy, tender cinnamon rolls swirled with a buttery pistachio and cinnamon filling, then topped with a luscious white chocolate glaze and crunchy pistachios. It’s the perfect combination of warm spices, nutty goodness, and creamy sweetness—all wrapped up in one irresistible roll. Whether for a holiday brunch wake-up call or a cozy weekend treat, these cinnamon rolls bring the kind of joy that makes mornings truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients might be the simplest step, but it truly sets the foundation for the magic that follows. Each element contributes something important—from the yeast that gives the dough its airy lift, to the creamy butter and warm cinnamon that make these rolls unforgettable.
- ¼ cup warm water (105-115℉): Perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast: The secret to soft, fluffy dough that rises beautifully.
- ¼ cup sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spices.
- ¾ cup warm milk: Helps create a tender dough texture with richness.
- 1 large egg: Adds structure and a slight richness to the dough.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Enhances flavor and tenderness in the dough.
- 1 tsp salt: Brings out the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 3¾ cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and chew.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Melts into the cinnamon sugar to keep rolls moist.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds deep molasses flavor to the filling.
- 1 tbsp cinnamon: The warm spice that makes cinnamon rolls so iconic.
- ¼ cup chopped pistachio: Adds delightful crunch and nutty aroma inside the rolls.
- 170 grams chopped white chocolate (for topping): Melts into a creamy, sweet glaze that’s pure indulgence.
- ⅕ cup heavy cream: Helps create a smooth and rich white chocolate ganache.
- ½ cup chopped pistachios (for topping): For extra crunch and a gorgeous finishing touch.
How to Make White Chocolate Pistachio Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by adding the warm water to your mixing bowl, then sprinkle in the yeast along with a teaspoon of sugar to feed it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes thick and foamy—this is a sign your yeast is alive and ready to create that perfect rise.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Flour
Once your yeast mixture is foamy, add the remaining sugar, warm milk, melted butter, egg, and salt. Stir these together with a wooden spoon. Then, incorporate the flour gradually in three parts to avoid lumps and form a smooth dough.
Step 3: Knead to Perfection
Attach your dough hook and knead the dough starting at low speed, slowly ramping up to medium-high. Knead for about 3 to 6 minutes until the dough feels smooth and stretchy—this elasticity means your rolls will be delightfully chewy and tender.
Step 4: First Rise
Shape your dough into a ball, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours. It should double in size, signaling that it’s full of air bubbles and ready to be rolled out.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling and Roll Out Dough
After gently deflating the dough, roll it into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter across the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture and chopped pistachios evenly. This filling creates those luscious spirals of flavor inside every bite.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces. Arrange them in a greased 9×13 inch pan spaced evenly, giving each roll room to puff up beautifully.
Step 7: Second Rise and Preheat Oven
Cover your rolls and allow a second rise for about an hour until they look puffy and soft. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350℉ so it’s ready to gently bake your delicious rolls to golden perfection.
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Bake your cinnamon rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn nice and golden on top. Then let the pan cool on a wire rack, giving the rolls time to set before the decadent topping goes on.
Step 9: Add the White Chocolate Pistachio Topping
Heat the heavy cream until just simmering and pour it over the chopped white chocolate to create a silky ganache. Drizzle this heavenly glaze over the cooled rolls, then finish by sprinkling extra chopped pistachios on top for a crunchy, nutty contrast.
How to Serve White Chocolate Pistachio Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra chopped pistachio over the tops just before serving to add vibrant color and crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also enhance the presentation without overpowering the flavors.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine on their own, but pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a latte, or even some fresh fruit salad creates a balanced and inviting breakfast or brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve each roll warm with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for an indulgent dessert version. You can also place individual rolls in pretty ramekins for a charming, personal touch when entertaining friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft. If you prefer, refrigerate and bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping but before the second rise by wrapping the pan tightly. Thaw in the fridge overnight and allow to rise before baking. Baked rolls freeze well too if stored in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat rolls gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300℉ for 5-7 minutes to bring back their fresh-baked softness and keep the frosting melty and delicious.
FAQs
Can I substitute another nut for pistachios?
Absolutely! You can use chopped almonds or pecans in the filling and topping for a different but delicious nutty twist.
What if I don’t have white chocolate?
You can use milk or dark chocolate for the topping, but white chocolate’s creamy sweetness pairs best with the cinnamon and pistachios for this recipe.
How long does the dough need to rise if my kitchen is cold?
In cooler environments, rising may take longer—up to 2 hours. Placing the dough in a slightly warm spot or inside the oven with just the light on can help speed it up.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
With some ingredient swaps like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg alternatives, you can definitely enjoy a vegan-friendly version, though texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Is it possible to make the dough by hand instead of a mixer?
Yes! It will take a bit more elbow grease, but kneading by hand for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic will work just fine.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about pulling fresh, ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls out of the oven, especially when they’re as wonderfully decadent as this White Chocolate Pistachio Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. The combination of flavors feels sophisticated yet comforting in a way that invites you to slow down and savor each bite. I can’t wait for you to try making these at home and share them with loved ones—because delicious memories are best made together.
Print
White Chocolate Pistachio Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Description
Delight in these decadent White Chocolate Pistachio Cinnamon Rolls, featuring a soft, fluffy dough enriched with warm cinnamon and crunchy pistachios, topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache and extra chopped pistachios for the perfect finishing touch. A delicious twist on a classic favorite, perfect for breakfast or a special treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- ¼ cup warm water (105-115℉)
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 3¾ cup all-purpose flour
Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped pistachio
Topping
- 170 grams chopped white chocolate
- ⅕ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast and about a teaspoon of the sugar. Let this stand for 5 minutes, until thick and foamy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the remaining sugar, warm milk, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until blended.
- Add Flour and Knead: Gradually stir in the flour in three additions. Attach the dough hook to the mixer and knead the dough on low speed, gradually increasing to medium-high speed, for 3-6 minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy.
- First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, until doubled in bulk.
- Prepare Filling and Roll Dough: Gently deflate the risen dough and roll it out into a 12 x 18 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon, brown sugar mixture, and chopped pistachios on top.
- Shape Rolls: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal portions and arrange them evenly spaced in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and allow them to rise for 1 hour until they become puffy and soft. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃).
- Bake Rolls: Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool the pan on a wire rack.
- Make White Chocolate Ganache and Finish: Heat the heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over the chopped white chocolate and stir gently until smooth and glossy. Pour the cooled ganache over the cinnamon rolls and sprinkle with the remaining chopped pistachios before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the water temperature for activating yeast is between 105-115℉ for optimal yeast activation.
- Allow dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment for the best results.
- Use room temperature butter for the filling to make spreading easier.
- White chocolate ganache can be prepared ahead and chilled; warm before pouring to achieve a smooth finish.
- These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
