Introduction

White Chocolate Pistachio Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining warm spices with crunchy pistachios and creamy white chocolate ganache. These sweet, soft rolls are perfect for a special breakfast or indulgent treat any time of day.

The image shows three cinnamon rolls on a white plate, each roll covered with thick white icing that drips down the sides, pooling slightly at the base. The cinnamon rolls are golden brown with visible swirls of cinnamon inside. Chopped green pistachios are sprinkled generously over the icing, adding texture and color contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, bright and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
¼ cup brown sugar (for filling)
1 tbsp cinnamon (for filling)
¼ cup chopped pistachio (for filling)
170 grams white chocolate, chopped (for topping)
⅕ cup heavy cream (for topping)
½ cup chopped pistachios (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: Add the remaining sugar, warm milk, melted butter, egg, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon, then gradually add the flour in three additions.
Step 3: Attach the dough hook to the mixer and knead on low speed, increasing to medium-high, for 3-6 minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy.
Step 4: Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
Step 5: Stir together the cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl.
Step 6: Deflate the risen dough and roll it into a 12 x 18 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture and chopped pistachios on top.
Step 7: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and cut into 12 equal portions.
Step 8: Place the rolls in a 9×13 inch baking pan, cover, and let them rise for 1 hour.
Step 9: Preheat the oven to 350℉. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
Step 10: For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until simmering, pour it over the chopped white chocolate, cover for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Let it cool until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Step 11: Pour the white chocolate ganache over the cooled cinnamon rolls and sprinkle with additional chopped pistachios before serving.

Tips & Variations

Ensure the butter used for the filling is properly softened to make spreading easier and more even.
Perform the windowpane test on the dough to confirm it is kneaded enough: stretch a small piece until it’s thin and translucent without tearing.
For extra flavor, toast the pistachios lightly before adding them to the filling or topping.
Replace white chocolate with cream cheese icing for a tangier finish.

Storage

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warm before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows three cinnamon rolls on a white plate, each topped with white icing that drips down the sides. The rolls are golden brown with a soft, fluffy texture and are sprinkled with chopped green pistachios on top and around the plate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background. The scene looks cozy and inviting, with the rolls arranged closely together. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough by hand instead of using a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The process may take a bit longer but works just as well.

What if I don’t have pistachios — can I use other nuts?

Absolutely. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds make excellent substitutes and add their own unique texture and flavor to the rolls.