Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace that whispers “homemade.” As I perfected these Almond Sweet Rolls, I discovered a delightful twist on the traditional favorite, trading cinnamon for a luscious almond filling. Fluffy, soft, and generously topped with creamy frosting, these rolls make for a breakfast that feels like a hug from the inside out. And the best part? They’re not only delicious but also quick enough to whip up on a weekend morning or for a cozy brunch with friends. With their irresistible gooeyness and the crunch of slivered almonds, your taste buds are in for a treat. Are you ready to take your breakfast game to the next level? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe! Why are these Almond Sweet Rolls irresistible? Warm, Homemade Goodness: These almond sweet rolls bring the bakery experience right into your home with their comforting aroma and soft texture. Unique Flavor Twist: Trade out traditional cinnamon for a decadent almond filling that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Quick and Easy: Perfect for a relaxed weekend or brunch gathering, these rolls come together quickly to deliver maximum delight with minimal effort. Versatile Treat: Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with fresh fruit, these rolls are versatile enough for any breakfast mood—just like my Biscoff Cookie Rolls or Thai Basil Beef Rolls. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With a creamy frosting and crunchy almond topping, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends, making every gathering a little sweeter! Almond Sweet Rolls Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture to the dough; use bread flour for extra chewiness. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling; consider brown sugar for a richer flavor. Rapid Rise Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise quickly; active dry yeast is a good substitute, but may require longer rising times. Salt – Enhances flavor; measure carefully to keep yeast active. Milk – Adds moisture to the dough; whole milk is ideal, or a non-dairy alternative for dairy-free options. Butter – Provides flavor and richness; substitute margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Egg – Acts as a binder and adds richness; for a vegan option, use a flax egg. For the Filling Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy almond filling; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version. Almond Meal – Gives a nutty flavor and texture to the filling; can be replaced with finely ground hazelnuts or oat flour. Large Egg – Binds the filling; use a commercial egg replacer for vegan preparation. Almond Extract – Intensifies the almond flavor; vanilla extract works too, although the taste will differ slightly. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile; no substitutions needed. For the Frosting Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and tang; substitute vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; consider a sugar alternative for a healthier option. Slivered Almonds – Gives a delightful crunch for garnish; optional, or use chopped pecans for variation. With these Almond Sweet Rolls ingredients on hand, you’re one step closer to creating a breakfast masterpiece that’s sure to impress and satisfy! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Almond Sweet Rolls Step 1: Prepare Dough In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, rapid rise instant yeast, and salt. Mix well. In a saucepan, heat milk and butter until warm but not boiling—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add the warm mixture, along with the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract, to the mixer, and beat on low speed for 1 minute before increasing to high until all ingredients are combined. Step 2: Knead Dough Attach the dough hook and gradually add the remaining flour, about ¼ cup at a time, until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Knead on medium-low speed for about 10 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth. You should see a slight sheen on the surface; this indicates that your Almond Sweet Rolls dough is ready for the next step. Step 3: First Rise Transfer the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when you gently press your finger into the dough and the indentation remains. Step 4: Make Filling While the dough rises, prepare your almond filling. In a separate bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter, almond meal, sugar, large egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir until it forms a smooth paste that is spreadable. The filling should have a delightful nutty aroma, hinting at the delicious Almond Sweet Rolls you’re about to create! Step 5: Shape Rolls After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the almond filling evenly over the surface of the rolled dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Step 6: Second Rise Place the sliced rolls into a greased baking dish, spacing them closely but not touching. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another hour until they are puffy and have increased in size. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time, so it’s ready for baking as soon as your Almond Sweet Rolls are done rising. Step 7: Bake Once the rolls have risen, place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on the tops; they should be fluffy and lightly browned. When done, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before you frost them. Step 8: Frost For the creamy frosting, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy. Once the Almond Sweet Rolls have cooled sufficiently, generously spread the frosting over each roll, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. Finish with a sprinkle of slivered almonds for an added crunch and spectacular presentation. Make Ahead Options These Almond Sweet Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy mornings! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions until the second rise, then cover the shaped rolls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just before baking, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly, and then preheat your oven. The almond filling can also be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, when you’re ready to treat yourself, you’ll have easy access to fresh, gooey almond sweet rolls that taste just as delicious as if you made them fresh that morning! Almond Sweet Rolls Variations & Substitutions Feel free to mix things up and make these almond sweet rolls your own delightful creation! Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. You’ll still enjoy a soft and fluffy treat! Vegan: Substitute the butter, egg, and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives. Coconut oil, flax eggs, and vegan cream cheese work wonders for a cruelty-free version. Sugar-Free: Switch out granulated sugar with your favorite natural sweetener, like stevia or erythritol, for a lower-calorie option that doesn’t skimp on sweetness. Nut-Free: Replace almond meal with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free filling, creating a tasty and safe alternative for those with allergies. Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the almond filling for a rich, decadent twist. Who could resist chocolate and almonds together? Fruity Addition: Fold in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries into the filling for an unexpected burst of flavor—a beautiful contrast to the almond essence. Spiced Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spiced flavor. This cozy touch complements the almond beautifully, reminiscent of classic holiday treats. For a Savory Touch: Instead of sweet frosting, try a cream cheese spread seasoned with garlic and herbs for a savory option! This pairs delightfully with your homemade rolls and provides a unique brunch experience. Creating variations, just like the ones found in my Biscoff Cookie Rolls or Thai Basil Beef Rolls, brings endless enjoyment and personalization to your baking adventures! Storage Tips for Almond Sweet Rolls Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness. Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate the almond sweet rolls for up to a week. Be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls before baking. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the rolls overnight in the fridge, then allow them to rise for a bit before baking, or simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for immediate enjoyment! Expert Tips for Almond Sweet Rolls Perfect Temperature: Ensure the milk mixture is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast and hinder your dough’s rise. Dough Consistency: Gradually add flour during kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. Avoid adding too much flour at once, as it can lead to dense rolls. Clean Cuts: Use dental floss or a serrated knife for slicing the rolled dough evenly, ensuring each piece is the same size for uniform baking. Frosting Timing: Allow your Almond Sweet Rolls to cool before frosting to prevent melting and ensure that the creamy topping sticks properly. Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with the almond filling—adding chocolate chips or fresh fruit can offer delightful new flavors! Storage Solutions: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. What to Serve with Gooey Almond Sweet Rolls Warm, flaky pastries are just the beginning of your delightful breakfast experience; here are some perfect pairings to complement every bite. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of berries and citrus adds vibrant flavors and freshness, balancing the rich sweetness of the rolls. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness and provides a luscious finish to your sweet rolls. Creamy Yogurt: Serve with a side of vanilla or almond-flavored yogurt. Its tangy creaminess marries beautifully with the soft almond filling. Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee creates a warm experience, with the rich flavors offsetting the sweetness for a perfect morning. Herbal Tea: For a lighter touch, herbal teas like chamomile or mint complement the rolls while offering soothing warmth and aromatic bliss. These pairings not only elevate your breakfast spread but also create a cozy atmosphere perfect for sharing with loved ones. Almond Sweet Rolls Recipe FAQs What type of almond meal should I use? For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using blanched almond meal, which has a finer grind compared to regular almond flour. This will help create a smooth filling without any grainy bits. If you’re in a pinch, you can also grind whole almonds in a food processor until they reach a fine consistency. How should I store leftover almond sweet rolls? To keep your almond sweet rolls fresh, I suggest storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out. Can I freeze almond sweet rolls? Absolutely! You can freeze your almond sweet rolls before baking. Once you’ve shaped them and placed them in a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and allow them to rise for about an hour before baking. What if my dough doesn’t rise? If your dough is not rising, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Ensure that your milk mixture is warm (around 100°F or 38°C), not hot, as this can kill the yeast. If you’ve used active dry yeast, make sure to activate it in warm water with a bit of sugar before adding to the flour mixture. Additionally, if your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warm spot like an oven with just the light on to encourage rising. Are almond sweet rolls safe for those with nut allergies? Unfortunately, these almond sweet rolls are not suitable for individuals with nut allergies due to the use of almond meal and almond extract. An alternative could be to substitute the almond ingredients with a seed meal like sunflower seed flour, but note that the flavor will differ. Always check all ingredient labels to ensure they are safe for your dietary needs. Can I make these rolls vegan? Yes! To make your almond sweet rolls vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free alternatives for the butter and cream cheese. Look for specific brands of vegan cream cheese that you enjoy, and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly. Delicious Almond Sweet Rolls for a Heartwarming Breakfast These Almond Sweet Rolls are fluffy and generously topped with creamy frosting, perfect for a heartwarming breakfast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsRising Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 12 rollsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough2 cups All-Purpose Flour Use bread flour for extra chewiness.1 cup Granulated Sugar Consider brown sugar for a richer flavor.1 packet Rapid Rise Instant Yeast Active dry yeast is a good substitute.1 teaspoon Salt Measure carefully to keep yeast active.1 cup Milk Whole milk is ideal or a non-dairy alternative.1/2 cup Butter Substitute margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free.1 large Egg For vegan, use a flax egg.Filling1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Coconut oil can be used for dairy-free.1 cup Almond Meal Can be replaced with ground hazelnuts or oat flour.1 large Egg Use a commercial egg replacer for vegan.1 teaspoon Almond Extract Vanilla extract works too.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract No substitutions needed.Frosting8 oz Cream Cheese Substitute vegan cream cheese for dairy-free.2 cups Powdered Sugar Consider a sugar alternative for a healthier option.1/2 cup Slivered Almonds Optional, or use chopped pecans for variation. Equipment Mixing bowlsaucepanDough hook mixerBaking dishSharp knife or dental floss Method Dough PreparationIn a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.In a saucepan, heat milk and butter until warm, about 2-3 minutes. Add the warm mixture, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the mixer, and beat on low speed for 1 minute.Gradually increase to high speed until all ingredients are combined.KneadingAttach the dough hook and gradually add the remaining flour, about 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough forms a smooth ball.Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth.First RiseTransfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled.Filling PreparationIn a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, almond meal, sugar, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract until smooth.RollingGently punch down the dough, roll it out into a rectangle, spread the filling evenly, and roll tightly into a log.Slice into 12 equal pieces.Second RisePlace the slices into a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another hour.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).BakingBake for about 30 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool for about 10 minutes.FrostingBeat together cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.Spread the frosting over the rolls and sprinkle with slivered almonds. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.5mg NotesEnsure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly. Experiment with variations in the filling for delightful new flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
