Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of warm spices and sweet goodness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. The unique chai-infused filling and decadent frosting create a delightful experience that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy breakfast or as a dessert for a fall gathering, these rolls are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Experience the rich, aromatic spices of chai blended perfectly with sweet cinnamon sugar.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These rolls come out soft and fluffy, making each bite a delight.
• Impressive Presentation: With their beautiful swirls and creamy frosting, they are visually stunning.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—these rolls fit any occasion.
• Easy to Make: While they look gourmet, the process is straightforward and manageable for bakers of all levels.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes creating these chai cinnamon rolls easier and more enjoyable. Gather your equipment before you start baking to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing dough or frosting.
• Rolling pin: Guarantees even thickness while rolling out dough.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving.

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 Filling

• 2 chai tea bags
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) heavy cream
• 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 Topping

• 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

Start by warming the milk in a small saucepan until it reaches about 110°F.

Step 2: Bloom Yeast

In a bowl, combine the warm milk with active dry yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, spices, salt, eggs, vanilla extract, softened butter, and bloomed yeast mixture.

Step 4: Knead Dough

Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. This should take about 5–7 minutes.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 60 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise, steep chai tea bags in heated heavy cream. Mix with softened butter, sugars, spices, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.

Continue following these steps to shape your rolls, add filling layers, let them rise again before baking! Enjoy every moment of making these delightful Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Chai cinnamon rolls are the perfect indulgent treat, especially during fall. They can be enjoyed in various creative ways that elevate their deliciousness.

Enjoy with a Cup of Chai Tea

• Pairing these rolls with a hot cup of chai tea enhances the flavors. The spices in both complement each other beautifully.

Top with Extra Frosting

• Drizzling more chai cream cheese frosting on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess, making each bite even more delightful.

Serve Warm with Ice Cream

• Heating the rolls slightly and serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast between warm and cold.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Slices of fresh apples or pears on the side provide a refreshing burst that balances the richness of the rolls.

Create a Breakfast Spread

• Include these chai cinnamon rolls in a brunch spread alongside pancakes, fruit salads, and coffee for a cozy gathering.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans over the frosting adds crunch and enhances the flavors of your chai cinnamon rolls.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Baking perfect chai cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for guaranteed success.

• Knead Well: Ensure the dough is kneaded for about 8-10 minutes. This develops gluten, giving your rolls their soft texture.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast will ensure your rolls rise beautifully.

• Temperature Matters: When warming milk, make sure it’s around 110°F. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cool won’t activate it properly.

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size is crucial for fluffy rolls. Be patient; it’s worth it!

• Even Spicing: Distribute spices evenly in both filling and frosting for consistent flavor throughout your chai cinnamon rolls.

• Serve Immediately: For best taste and texture, serve your chai cinnamon rolls warm right out of the oven or reheat them briefly before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Chai cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a fresh contrast to the sweet roll.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola complements the soft texture of the rolls.
3. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This classic fall drink matches perfectly with chai flavors for an autumn vibe.
4. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche provides a savory balance to sweet treats like chai cinnamon rolls.
5. Maple Bacon: The smoky-sweet flavor of bacon pairs well, adding depth to your breakfast spread.
6. Hot Cocoa: Rich hot cocoa can be a comforting pairing, especially during chilly mornings.
7. Spiced Nuts: Offering spiced nuts brings an added crunchy element that works well with soft baked goods.
8. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast that enhances each bite of your roll.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Incorrect yeast activation: If your yeast doesn’t bloom properly, it won’t rise. Always ensure the milk is warm (not hot) when blooming the yeast.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Mix just until combined and smooth for soft, fluffy results.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for proper rising. Don’t rush this step; it develops flavor and texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups. Precision ensures consistent results.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can lead to uneven baking. Invest in an oven thermometer for perfect chai cinnamon rolls every time.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chai cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the rolls for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place a roll in a pan over low heat with a lid on, warming it gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making chai cinnamon rolls, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use different spices in my Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices based on your preference. You can add more ginger or even include vanilla beans for extra flavor.

What makes these Chai Cinnamon Rolls unique?

The combination of chai spices and cream cheese frosting provides a warm, comforting twist that makes these rolls perfect for fall gatherings.

How long do Chai Cinnamon Rolls last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, these rolls will last up to 3 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to develop further.

Final Thoughts

These chai cinnamon rolls offer an incredible blend of flavors that are perfect for any autumn gathering or cozy breakfast at home. With customization options available, you can tailor them to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!