Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your taste buds this holiday season with these irresistible Perfect Pistachio Rolls, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with nutty flavor, these rolls are a festive treat that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges or cozy gatherings, they add a delightful twist to your dessert table.

Imogen Price

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-11-25T15:28:13.753Z

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are not just a treat; they are a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy during the holiday season.

The Perfect Holiday Delight

The holiday season is all about gathering loved ones and sharing delightful treats. These Perfect Pistachio Rolls are not just a feast for the eyes; they are crafted to bring joy to every palate. With a soft and fluffy texture paired with the nuttiness of pistachios, these rolls make a wonderful centerpiece for your dessert table. Their vibrant green hue adds a festive touch, making them perfect for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Whether you are hosting a big holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening with family, these rolls are a simple yet elegant addition. The irresistible cream cheese frosting drizzled on top adds a buttery richness that complements the nutty flavors so well. Your friends and family will find them hard to resist!

A Recipe for Sharing

Baking is not only about the final product; it's also about the experience shared with those around you. Making these Perfect Pistachio Rolls is an activity that brings people together. Invite your loved ones into the kitchen and enjoy the laughter as you knead the dough and roll out the filling. This hands-on approach creates lasting memories while you whip up a delicious treat.

These rolls are ideal for cookie exchanges or holiday brunches, offering a delightful alternative to traditional pastries. Their unique flavor profile makes them an exciting conversation starter among guests. By the end of your gathering, they will surely be the first dessert to vanish, leaving hearts and bellies full!

Nutritional Benefits of Pistachios

Not only do pistachios elevate the flavor of these rolls, but they also provide a range of nutritional benefits. Rich in protein and healthy fats, they support heart health and promote overall wellness. Packed with vital nutrients like vitamin B6 and potassium, incorporating pistachios into your diet can help enhance energy levels and improve digestion.

As you enjoy these Perfect Pistachio Rolls, you can feel good knowing that you’re indulging in a treat that offers more than just sweetness. This balance of indulgence and nutrition makes these rolls a standout choice for dessert lovers who appreciate both flavor and health.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pistachios

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then add yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add flour, salt, butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Let it Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Roll Out and Add Filling

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle chopped pistachios evenly over the surface.

Shape the Rolls

Roll tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in a greased baking dish.

Second Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake the Rolls

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Frosting

While the rolls cool, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls and enjoy!

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before frosting for best results.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover rolls (though they can be hard to resist), storing them properly ensures they stay fresh for longer. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rolls. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature before warming them briefly in the oven to revive their soft texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Perfect Pistachio Rolls can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks. Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea for a comforting experience. Their sweetness complements the spice of a holiday cider, making them a perfect choice for winter gatherings.

For a more decadent treat, serve the rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This contrast between the warm, nutty rolls and cold, creamy accompaniments creates a delightful harmony of flavors that guests will rave about.

Getting Creative with Variations

While the original recipe is delicious, don't hesitate to get creative! You can add dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for a festive twist. These fruits not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a complementary tartness that balances the sweetness of the rolls.

Consider trying different frostings as well. A chocolate ganache or a maple glaze can provide new flavor profiles that transform this classic recipe. Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough for added warmth and complexity, making these rolls your own signature dish!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate. Allow to come to room temperature before baking.

→ How should I store the leftover rolls?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Perfect Pistachio Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Delight your taste buds this holiday season with these irresistible Perfect Pistachio Rolls, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with nutty flavor, these rolls are a festive treat that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges or cozy gatherings, they add a delightful twist to your dessert table.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Imogen Price

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. 1/4 cup whole milk
  4. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  5. 1 packet active dry yeast
  6. 1 egg
  7. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  9. 1 cup chopped pistachios

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. 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then add yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Step 02

Add flour, salt, butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.

Step 03

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 04

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Step 05

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle chopped pistachios evenly over the surface.

Step 06

Roll tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in a greased baking dish.

Step 07

Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 08

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 09

While the rolls cool, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 10

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 3g