Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of warm spices and sweet indulgence. Ideal for breakfast or dessert, these rolls bring a delightful twist to the classic cinnamon roll, wrapped in a cozy chai flavor that makes them perfect for fall. With their soft, fluffy texture and rich chai cream cheese frosting, they are sure to impress at any gathering or cozy weekend brunch.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chai spices and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering filling that enhances every bite.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet taste, these rolls are simple enough for anyone to bake, making them a great choice for novice bakers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a casual family breakfast, these chai cinnamon rolls fit right in.
• Decadent Toppings: The chai cream cheese frosting and sticky caramel sauce elevate these rolls to an indulgent treat.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight for easy baking in the morning.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious chai cinnamon rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth dough.
• Rolling pin: Helps in rolling out the dough evenly, ensuring consistent thickness for even baking.
• Baking dish: A good-quality dish ensures even heat distribution during baking, leading to perfectly cooked rolls.

Ingredients

These gooey chai cinnamon rolls are soft and fluffy, filled with delicious brown sugar chai filling, frosted with chai cream cheese frosting, all while drenched in a truly decadent and sticky brown sugar chai caramel sauce on the bottom. An absolutely incredible, indulgent treat to bake this fall!

For the Dough

• 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110 degrees F
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp granulated white sugar, (to bloom the yeast)
• 4 3/4 cups (593 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened

For the Chai Filling

• 1/3 cup (80 ml) heavy cream
• 2 chai tea bags
• 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 3/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/3 cup (116 g) honey
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting

• 6 tbsp (84 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup (97 g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/8 tsp ground allspice
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• pinch of cloves

How to Make Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by warming the milk until it reaches about 110 degrees F. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk with active dry yeast and granulated sugar. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, spices, salt, and remaining sugar. Gradually add this mixture into the milk mixture along with eggs and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Add softened butter into the flour mixture. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 60 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Chai Filling

While dough rises, heat heavy cream in a small pot with two chai tea bags until simmering. Allow steeping while preparing other filling ingredients.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough on a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches.

Step 6: Add Filling & Form Rolls

Spread softened butter over rolled-out dough. Mix together brown sugar and spices; sprinkle over buttered dough. Drizzle honey on top before rolling tightly from one end to another.

Step 7: Slice & Arrange Rolls

Slice rolled dough into equal pieces about 2 inches wide. Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 8: Second Rise & Preheat Oven

Cover rolls with plastic wrap again while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 9: Bake Rolls

Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Frost & Serve

While hot, prepare your frosting by blending softened cream cheese with butter and powdered sugar. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving fresh from the oven!

Enjoy your freshly baked Chai Cinnamon Rolls, perfect for sharing or savoring alone!

How to Serve Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving chai cinnamon rolls is a delightful experience that can elevate your breakfast or dessert table. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or at room temperature, there are several ways to make these gooey treats even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Hot Beverage

• Chai Latte: Complement the flavors of chai cinnamon rolls with a warm chai latte for a cozy pairing.
• Coffee: A cup of coffee balances sweetness while enhancing the spices in the rolls.
• Hot Chocolate: For a rich treat, serve with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Apples: Tart apple slices add a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls.
• Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries offers a pop of color and tartness, making for a vibrant plate.
• Citrus Segments: Oranges or grapefruit segments provide a zesty flavor that brightens up the meal.

Create a Brunch Spread

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits to offer guests a balanced option alongside the sweet rolls.
• Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds protein to your brunch table, creating an appealing contrast to the sweetness.
• Breakfast Sausages: Serve mini breakfast sausages for those who enjoy both sweet and savory flavors in one meal.

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How to Perfect Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting chai cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail, from dough preparation to baking time. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Warm Milk: Begin with warmed milk around 110 degrees F to activate the yeast effectively for fluffy rolls.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which ensures it rises well and has the perfect texture.
• Let It Rise: Allow ample time for dough rising; this enhances flavor and creates lightness in your rolls.
• Don’t Skimp on Spices: Use fresh ground spices for the filling; they provide richer flavors that elevate your chai cinnamon rolls.
• Frost While Warm: Frosting the rolls while they are still warm allows the cream cheese frosting to melt slightly into the rolls, adding extra flavor.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter and brown sugar; this will enhance both taste and texture in each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Chai cinnamon rolls can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Consider serving these options alongside your delicious rolls for an unforgettable meal.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant combination of fruits like melons, berries, and citrus adds freshness and balance.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Creamy scrambled eggs provide protein, making this pair not only delicious but also satisfying.
3. Granola Bowl: Crunchy granola with yogurt offers a tasty contrast in texture while keeping things light.
4. Savory Muffins: Cheddar or spinach muffins can give an interesting twist to your meal while enhancing flavors.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toast adds healthy fats that complement sweet flavors nicely.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds can serve as a nutritious side that pairs well with sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chai cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring yeast temperature: Using milk that is too hot or cold can kill the yeast. Always warm the milk to about 110 degrees F for the best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This ensures you don’t add too much, which can lead to dense rolls.
• Skipping the second rise: Allowing your chai cinnamon rolls to rise again after shaping is crucial for fluffiness. Don’t rush this step!
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten, making your rolls tough. Mix until just combined for soft and fluffy rolls.
• Inadequate cooling time: Letting the rolls cool slightly before frosting helps the icing stay put. A warm roll will melt the frosting away.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds. Adjust time based on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about chai cinnamon rolls:

Can I make Chai Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and fill it the night before, then refrigerate it overnight. Bake fresh in the morning!

What spices are in Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

These rolls contain cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves—all classic chai spices that create a warm flavor.

How do I store leftover Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize my Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips into the filling for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These chai cinnamon rolls are not just a treat; they evoke warmth and comfort during fall. Their gooey filling and creamy frosting make them irresistible! Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients like nuts or different spices. Enjoy this cozy indulgence with friends and family!

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Chai Cinnamon Rolls

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• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: About 12 rolls 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

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Description

Indulge in the delightful warmth of these Chai Cinnamon Rolls, where the classic cinnamon roll meets aromatic chai spices for a cozy autumn treat. Soft and fluffy, each roll is generously filled with a spiced brown sugar mixture and topped with creamy chai-infused frosting. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are a showstopper at any gathering. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed later, they offer an irresistible blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110 degrees F
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp granulated white sugar
• 4 3/4 cups (593 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) heavy cream
• 2 chai tea bags
• 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 3/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/3 cup (116 g) honey
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp (84 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup (97 g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/8 tsp ground allspice
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• pinch of cloves

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Instructions

1. Warm 1 1/4 cups of milk to 110 degrees F and combine with 2 1/4 tsp yeast and 1 tsp sugar; let sit until frothy.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 3/4 cups flour, spices, salt, and remaining sugar. Gradually add this to the milk mixture along with 2 whisked eggs and 1 tbsp vanilla extract.
3. Knead in 1/2 cup softened butter until smooth; cover and let rise until doubled in size (about 60 minutes).
4. Prepare chai filling by heating heavy cream with two chai tea bags; steep and mix with other filling ingredients.
5. Roll out dough, spread with butter, sprinkle filling, drizzle honey, then roll tightly and slice into pieces.
6. Arrange slices in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes before baking at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
7. Prepare frosting while rolls bake; frost warm rolls before serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (85g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg