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Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

4.7 from 91 reviews

These Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a rich pistachio butter filling and a luscious pistachio cream icing. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack, this recipe yields a small batch ideal for intimate gatherings or when you simply want a fresh homemade treat without leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons softened butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose or bread flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 1/4 cup pistachio butter or pistachio cream
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios (optional, for crunch)

For the Icing:

  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon pistachio butter

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough: Warm the milk until just lukewarm. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the yeast and allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. In a larger bowl, whisk together the egg and softened butter. Gradually add the foamy yeast mixture. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth and elastic, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. First Rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and set it in a warm, draft-free spot. Let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size and is soft to the touch.
  3. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine the pistachio butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well blended. If you like added texture, stir in the chopped pistachios.
  4. Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 10×8 inches in size. Evenly spread the pistachio filling over the surface of the dough. Starting at one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Slice the log into 4 to 6 equal rolls depending on your size preference.

Notes

  • Ensure milk is lukewarm to activate yeast properly without killing it.
  • Knead the dough just enough to develop gluten for a tender texture.
  • You can substitute pistachio butter with almond butter for a slightly different flavor.
  • For extra flavor, toast the chopped pistachios before adding to the filling.
  • The rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Warm slightly before serving for a fresh-baked experience.

Keywords: pistachio cinnamon rolls, small batch cinnamon rolls, pistachio cream rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls, baked cinnamon rolls, pistachio butter recipe