Golden Fig and Walnut Rolls are tender, sweet pastry rolls filled with a rich mixture of dried golden figs, toasted walnuts, and warm spices. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a special dessert, offering a satisfying balance of natural sweetness and nutty richness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls or fruit pastries. The golden figs lend a mellow, honey-like sweetness, while walnuts add crunch and depth. These rolls feel both rustic and refined, making them ideal for entertaining or a cozy weekend treat. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, especially with a pre-made dough.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour (if making dough from scratch)
Active dry yeast
Warm milk
Sugar
Salt
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Dried golden figs
Walnuts (chopped and lightly toasted)
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg (optional)
Lemon zest (optional)
Honey or maple syrup (for glazing)

Directions

If making dough from scratch, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, eggs, and melted butter to form a soft dough. Knead and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
Prepare the filling by finely chopping dried figs and mixing them with toasted walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon zest.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface and sprinkle the fig-walnut mixture evenly.
Roll the dough into a log and slice into even rolls.
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30–40 minutes.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
While warm, brush with honey or maple syrup for a shiny, sweet finish.

Servings and timing

Makes 12 rolls and takes about 2½ hours including rising and baking time. Using store-bought dough shortens preparation to about 1 hour.

Variations

Add cream cheese glaze for a richer finish.
Use dried dates or apricots instead of figs.
Mix in orange zest or cardamom for additional aromatic flavor.
Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolaty variation.
Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes or microwave briefly. For best results, warm before serving to refresh texture and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough works well for a shortcut.

What type of figs should I use?

Golden dried figs are preferred for their delicate sweetness, but black mission figs can be used for a deeper flavor.

Do I need to soak the figs?

Soaking them briefly in warm water or juice softens the texture and makes them easier to chop.

Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, freeze baked and cooled rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Are these rolls very sweet?

They have a natural sweetness from figs and a mild sugar content—less sweet than traditional cinnamon rolls.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free dough and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make the rolls ahead of time?

Prepare the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before the second rise and baking.

How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?

Cover with foil while baking if they brown too quickly, and store in an airtight container.

Can I add cheese to the filling?

A bit of soft goat cheese or ricotta pairs beautifully with the figs and adds creaminess.

What’s the best way to toast the walnuts?

Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.

Conclusion

Golden Fig and Walnut Rolls are a charming and flavorful addition to any table. With their tender dough, naturally sweet filling, and nutty crunch, they’re a delightful pastry that offers both elegance and comfort. Whether for a holiday brunch or a weekday indulgence, these rolls bring a touch of homemade warmth to every bite.

Golden Fig and Walnut Rolls

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Golden Fig and Walnut Rolls are soft, sweet yeast rolls filled with a luscious mixture of golden figs, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an elegant dessert.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add flour and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour.
Mix chopped figs, walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and honey in a bowl to make the filling.
Punch down dough and roll it into a 12×18 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
Spread the fig-walnut mixture evenly over the dough.
Roll up tightly from the long edge and cut into 12 equal slices.
Arrange slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Brush with melted butter while warm. Cool slightly before serving.