Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls

Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls by using puff pastry for a flaky, buttery texture. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet indulgent breakfast, brunch, or dessert, requiring minimal prep time. The rich mascarpone-pistachio glaze adds a creamy, nutty sweetness that elevates every bite.

Essential Ingredients

• Mascarpone cheese (1 cup, divided) – Provides a rich, creamy texture for the filling and glaze.
• White sugar (1/4 cup) & brown sugar (1/4 cup) – Balance sweetness and caramelization.
• Ground cinnamon (2 tbsp) – Adds warm, spiced flavor to the filling.
• Melted butter (2 tbsp) – Enhances flakiness and richness.
• Salt (1/4 tsp, divided) – Helps balance the sweetness.
• Puff pastry (17.3 oz package, thawed) – The base for these easy and crispy cinnamon rolls.
• Finely chopped pistachios (1/2 cup, plus more for garnish) – Adds crunch and nutty depth.
• Pistachio cream (3/4 cup, divided) – The star ingredient that brings a velvety, nutty sweetness.
• Heavy cream (2 tbsp) – Helps create a smooth, luscious glaze.
• Confectioner’s sugar (1 1/2 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the glaze.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat & Prepare Pan – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet or grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Filling – Mix 1/2 cup mascarpone, sugars, cinnamon, melted butter, and 1/8 tsp salt until smooth.
3. Prepare the Pastry – Roll out thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
4. Fill & Roll – Spread sugar mixture over pastry sheets, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, and drizzle with 2 tbsp pistachio cream per sheet.
5. Shape the Rolls – Roll each sheet into a log, seam side down, and cut each into 6 pinwheels.
6. Bake – Place rolls cut-side up in the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Prepare the Glaze – Beat remaining mascarpone, pistachio cream, heavy cream, and salt, then gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
8. Glaze & Garnish – Spread the glaze over warm cinnamon rolls and top with additional chopped pistachios.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Healthy Fats – Pistachios provide heart-healthy fats and fiber.
• Good Source of Protein – With 7g of protein per serving, this treat offers some nutritional value.
• Calcium Boost – Mascarpone and pistachios contribute to 109mg of calcium per serving.
• Antioxidant-Rich – Pistachios contain antioxidants that support overall health.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea – Pairs beautifully with a latte, espresso, or chai tea.
• Topped with Extra Pistachios – For added crunch and visual appeal.
• Warm & Fresh – Best served slightly warm to enhance the creamy texture of the glaze.
• Dusted with Powdered Sugar – For a simple, elegant presentation.
• Alongside Fresh Berries – Adds a refreshing contrast to the richness.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Pistachio Rolls – Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the finished rolls.
• Orange Zest Twist – Incorporate orange zest into the filling for a citrusy contrast.
• Nutty Mix – Use a blend of chopped hazelnuts and pistachios for extra crunch.
• Maple-Glazed – Replace sugar in the glaze with maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
• Almond Lovers’ Version – Swap pistachio cream for almond butter and top with sliced almonds.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze unglazed rolls in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat before serving.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
• Make-Ahead Option – Assemble the rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh the next morning.

Pro Tips

• Chill the Pastry Before Baking – Keeps the layers flaky and crisp.
• Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can cause the pastry to unroll while baking.
• Use a Sharp Knife – Ensures clean cuts when slicing the pastry logs.
• Let Rolls Cool Slightly Before Glazing – This prevents the glaze from completely melting.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste – Add more or less sugar depending on your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought cinnamon roll dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes! It will result in a softer, more traditional cinnamon roll texture.

What can I use instead of pistachio cream?

You can substitute with almond butter, hazelnut spread, or even a homemade pistachio paste.

How do I prevent my puff pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure to drain excess moisture from the mascarpone mixture and don’t overload with pistachio cream.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute mascarpone with dairy-free cream cheese and use plant-based butter.

Do these rolls need to be refrigerated?

If unglazed, they can be stored at room temperature for a day. Otherwise, refrigeration is best.

These Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent yet easy treat, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special breakfast. With flaky layers, spiced sweetness, and nutty richness, they’re sure to become a new favorite!

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