Name: Chai Cinnamon Rolls: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Favorite
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cardamom; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp milk; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

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Chai Cinnamon Rolls bring together the beloved comfort of a classic cinnamon roll with the warm, spicy flavors of chai tea. Infused with a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves, these rolls offer a delightful twist on the traditional cinnamon roll recipe. The warm, comforting chai flavors make these rolls the perfect treat for chilly mornings, cozy weekends, or a special brunch gathering.

With a soft, pillowy texture and a rich, spiced flavor profile, Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only a feast for the senses but also a fun way to experiment with flavors you might already love from your favorite chai latte. Topped with a luscious icing that melts beautifully over the warm rolls, this treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a cinnamon roll enthusiast or a chai lover, these rolls promise to offer the best of both worlds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Spicy and Aromatic Flavor

The combination of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves gives these rolls an irresistible aroma and flavor, creating a perfect balance between sweetness and spice.

2. Soft, Fluffy Texture

These rolls are incredibly soft and pillowy on the inside, making every bite a light, fluffy indulgence.

3. Chai-Inspired Twist

If you’re a fan of chai tea lattes, these cinnamon rolls will become your new favorite treat. The warm chai spices are an excellent complement to the traditional cinnamon filling.

4. Homemade Goodness

Baking these rolls from scratch adds a sense of satisfaction, and the result is far more delicious than anything you could get at the store.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

These rolls are versatile—perfect for a weekend brunch, holiday breakfasts, or even as a sweet gift for friends and family.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Salt
Active dry yeast
Whole milk
Unsalted butter
Egg

For the Filling:

Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground cardamom
Ground ginger
Ground cloves
Unsalted butter

For the Icing:

Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Milk

Variations

Vegan Chai Cinnamon Rolls: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and a flax egg for the dough. For the icing, use dairy-free cream cheese and powdered sugar.
Caramelized Chai Rolls: Add a layer of caramel sauce inside the rolls before rolling them up for an extra decadent treat.
Add Nuts: For a crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts inside the roll along with the spice mixture.
Chai Latte Frosting: Add a touch of brewed chai tea to the icing for a more intense chai flavor in the frosting.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted and the milk is warm (around 110°F/43°C). Remove from heat and stir in the sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and an egg to the flour, and stir until the dough begins to come together. Once combined, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on a lightly floured surface, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).

Step 6: Add the Filling

Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the chai spice and sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 7: Roll and Cut

Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge, forming a log. Slice the log into 12 even rolls using a serrated knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 8: Arrange and Let Rise

Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffed and slightly doubled in size.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Step 10: Make the Icing

While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

Step 11: Drizzle the Icing

Once the rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing generously over the warm rolls. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overheat the Milk: When heating the milk for the dough, ensure that it’s warm, but not too hot. Anything above 120°F can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising properly.
Knead the Dough Well: Kneading helps to develop the gluten, giving the rolls their soft, fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step—aim for a smooth and elastic dough.
Let the Dough Rise Fully: Be patient with the rising process. Allow the dough to double in size during the first rise, and let the rolls puff up during the second rise.
Use Fresh Spices: For the most vibrant flavor, use fresh ground spices rather than pre-ground ones.
Add a Personal Touch: Feel free to sprinkle in some finely chopped nuts or a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for added texture and sweetness.

How to Serve

Chai Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with a hot cup of chai tea or coffee. You can serve them on their own or pair them with a side of fresh fruit to balance out the richness. If you have guests, these rolls make a great centerpiece for a brunch spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to restore their soft, pillowy texture.

Freezing

These rolls freeze wonderfully. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, allow them to thaw at room temperature and then warm them in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Reheating

To reheat frozen rolls, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and then heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I make these rolls the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to rise for about 30 minutes before baking.

2. Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Just follow the instructions for your machine’s dough setting.

3. What can I use if I don’t have cardamom?

Cardamom is an essential spice in chai, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice, although the flavor will be slightly different.

4. Can I make these rolls without the icing?

Yes, these rolls are delicious on their own without the icing. You could also drizzle them with caramel or a simple sugar glaze if you prefer a lighter topping.

5. Can I make the filling spicier?

Absolutely! If you love strong chai flavors, feel free to increase the amount of cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom in the filling.

6. Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. You won’t need to proof it in warm milk—just mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

7. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Make sure to follow the instructions on the flour package for best results when baking.

8. Can I add raisins or nuts?

Yes, raisins, currants, or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans would make great additions to the filling for added texture.

9. How do I avoid overbaking?

Keep a close eye on the rolls during baking. When they’re golden brown on top and the edges are slightly crisp, they’re done.

10. Can I make these rolls without milk?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk to make these rolls dairy-free.

Conclusion

Chai Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing together the warm, comforting flavors of chai with the irresistible, soft texture of homemade cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy weekend morning or serving them as a treat at your next gathering, these rolls are sure to become a new family favorite. With their spiced aroma and decadent flavor, Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to indulge in something sweet and comforting.