Name: Pistachio Cardamom Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: PT-489120H59M35S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion
Ingredients: 2¼ tsp instant yeast; ¾ cup warm milk; ¼ cup sugar; 1 egg; ¼ cup butter, melted; 3 cups flour; ½ cup ground pistachios; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp cardamom; 2 tbsp melted butter; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp milk

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If you adore the warm, comforting hug of a freshly baked roll but crave a delightful twist, then this Pistachio Cardamom Rolls Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. These soft, aromatic rolls filled with a luscious pistachio-cardamom paste and topped with a delicate glaze combine the subtle nuttiness of pistachios with the fragrant spice of cardamom. It’s a deliciously unique take on the classic cinnamon roll that beckons you to pause, savor, and enjoy every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular dish is filled with twelve unbaked pinwheel rolls arranged in three rows of four. Each roll is spiraled, showing layers of light beige dough with a darker brown filling that looks crumbly and textured, creating a clear swirl pattern in every piece. The rolls are placed closely together, filling the dish almost edge to edge. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting these Pistachio Cardamom Rolls just right starts with simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from creating the soft dough to delivering the fragrant filling and the perfect finishing glaze.

2¼ tsp instant yeast: The magical ingredient that makes the dough rise beautifully, light and fluffy.
¾ cup warm milk: Activates the yeast gently and adds moisture for tender rolls.
¼ cup sugar: Adds just enough sweetness for balance without overpowering flavors.
1 egg: Brings richness and helps bind the dough together perfectly.
¼ cup butter, melted: Enriches the dough and ensures a soft, tender crumb.
3 cups flour: The backbone of your dough — choose all-purpose for the perfect texture.
½ cup ground pistachios: The heart of the filling, bringing vibrant color and nutty depth.
¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness to complement the pistachios.
1 tsp cardamom: The fragrant spice that elevates these rolls with aromatic warmth.
2 tbsp melted butter (for filling): Helps bind the filling and keeps it moist and luscious.
½ cup powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet glaze that brings everything together.
1 tbsp milk (for glaze): To create the perfect consistency for drizzling on top.

How to Make Pistachio Cardamom Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the warm milk, instant yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let this mixture rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly—a sure sign your yeast is active and ready to work its magic in your dough.

Step 2: Create the Dough

Add the egg, melted butter, and flour into the yeast mixture. Stir and knead by hand or with a mixer until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. It should feel soft but hold together well. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, allowing it to double in size and develop that light, airy texture we all love.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix ground pistachios, brown sugar, cardamom, and melted butter in a bowl. The filling should be fragrant and moist enough to spread easily, bursting with the iconic flavors that make this recipe so special.

Step 4: Roll, Spread, and Slice

Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the pistachio-cardamom filling evenly over the surface, then carefully roll the dough up tightly from one long side. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into even pieces—aim for about 12 rolls to enjoy just the right portions of fluffy dough and rich filling.

Step 5: Let Rolls Rise Again

Place your sliced rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between each. Cover and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes, welcoming the second round of puffiness that guarantees soft, pillowy rolls fresh from the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the rolls into a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) and bake for 25 minutes. Watch as they turn a gorgeous golden brown, filling your kitchen with the wonderful scent of baking bread, nuts, and warming spices.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow your rolls to cool slightly before drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top. This sweet finish adds just the right touch of indulgence without overshadowing the cozy flavors you’ve created.

How to Serve Pistachio Cardamom Rolls Recipe

The image shows a top view of seven cinnamon rolls arranged closely together in a dark round pan. Each roll has a spiraled shape with layers of soft brown dough filled with darker brown cinnamon sugar. The surface of the rolls looks slightly sticky and shiny from syrup or glaze, with a few small sugar crystals visible. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, highlighting the warm golden and brown tones of the rolls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a beautiful finish, sprinkle finely chopped pistachios on the glaze while it is still wet. This adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal that makes these rolls irresistible. A light dusting of powdered sugar is also lovely for a delicate, snowy look.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls warm with a cup of spiced chai tea or a robust coffee to complement their exotic aroma. Fresh fruit, like sliced oranges or pomegranate seeds, also brightens the plate and refreshes the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving these rolls on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra glaze and chopped pistachios on the side for guests to customize. For a brunch spread, place them alongside creamy yogurt and a drizzle of honey to amplify the Middle Eastern inspiration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These Pistachio Cardamom Rolls keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Their tender texture and fragrant filling stay intact, making for a perfect next-day treat.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, the unbaked rolls freeze wonderfully. Place the sliced rolls on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and let rise before baking as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in a 325 °F (160 °C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This helps preserve their moist softness. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave for 20-30 seconds works in a pinch, but be careful not to dry them out.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pistachios offer a unique flavor and color, chopped almonds or walnuts make great alternatives. Just adjust the grind so the texture is similar to the original to keep the filling cohesive.

Is cardamom essential, or can I omit it?

Cardamom is the star spice that brings an aromatic warmth to these rolls, setting this recipe apart from traditional cinnamon rolls. However, if you don’t have it, you can substitute with cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg for a different but still delicious flavor.

Can I make the dough by hand, or is a mixer necessary?

You can definitely knead this dough by hand! It just takes about 8-10 minutes of consistent kneading until smooth and elastic. A mixer is convenient but not essential for producing perfect rolls.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and smell fragrant. A gentle press on one roll should spring back softly but firmly. Additionally, an internal temperature of about 190 °F (88 °C) ensures they’re fully baked inside.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, this Pistachio Cardamom Rolls Recipe scales up well. Just be mindful to give your dough enough room and time for rising, and consider baking in multiple pans to maintain even cooking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about sharing warm, homemade rolls filled with rich and fragrant flavors, and this Pistachio Cardamom Rolls Recipe hits all those lovely notes with flair. Whether it’s for a special brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or a sweet treat whenever you please, these rolls promise to fill your kitchen and your heart with joy. Give this recipe a try—you might just find a new tradition in the making.