These Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion, combining the warm spices of chai tea with the comforting sweetness of cinnamon rolls. Ideal for breakfast or dessert, these rolls feature a luscious brown sugar filling and a creamy chai frosting that will leave everyone craving more. With their gooey caramel sauce base, they are an indulgent delight that captures the essence of fall.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of chai spices creates a unique taste that elevates traditional cinnamon rolls.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a festive gathering, these rolls impress every time.
Gooey and Decadent: The sticky brown sugar chai caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different frostings or toppings to suit your style.
Made from Scratch: Enjoy the satisfaction of creating delicious rolls right at home.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather the essential tools needed for creating these delightful Chai Cinnamon Rolls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer
Rolling pin
Baking dish
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer: A stand mixer makes kneading dough easier and ensures it’s mixed thoroughly.
Baking dish: A good baking dish helps achieve even cooking and browning for your 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!

Ingredients:
– 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
– 1/3 cup (80 ml) heavy cream
– 2 chai tea bags
– 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
– Additional spices for filling and frosting including more cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves

How to Make Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Begin by warming whole milk to about 110 degrees F. In a small bowl, combine warm milk with active dry yeast and granulated white sugar. Let it sit for about five minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a stand mixer bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, ground spices (cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves), whisked eggs, vanilla extract, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until combined. Increase speed to medium and knead until smooth.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm area until doubled in size—approximately one hour.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix together light brown sugar with ground spices in a separate bowl. Set this mixture aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough gently. On a floured surface, roll it out into a large rectangle about half an inch thick.

Step 6: Add Filling & Shape Rolls

Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar filling across the surface. Roll tightly into a log shape.

Step 7: Cut & Arrange Rolls

Slice into equal pieces using sharp knife or dental floss. Place them into a greased baking dish so they are snug but not overcrowded.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover again and let them rise for about another thirty minutes until puffy.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about thirty minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Frost & Serve

As soon as they come out of the oven, drizzle with heavy cream before applying cream cheese frosting after they’ve cooled slightly. Enjoy your delicious Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving chai cinnamon rolls can elevate your breakfast or dessert experience. These rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways.

With a Hot Beverage

Chai Tea: Pair your rolls with a warm cup of chai tea to enhance the flavors of spices.
Coffee: A rich coffee complements the sweetness of the rolls, making for a perfect morning treat.

Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting

Frosting Drizzle: Add a generous drizzle of chai cream cheese frosting on top for an extra layer of indulgence.
Sprinkle of Cinnamon: Top with a light dusting of ground cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Served Warm

Fresh Out of the Oven: Enjoy them warm right from the oven. The gooey center and fluffy texture are best when fresh.
Reheat Slightly: If they cool down, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore warmth and softness.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

Sliced Apples or Pears: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls, making for a balanced plate.
Berries: Strawberries or blueberries provide a burst of flavor that pairs well with the spiced rolls.

How to Perfect Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Making chai cinnamon rolls perfect requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your baking is spot on.

Use Warm Milk: Ensure your milk is warm but not hot; this helps yeast bloom effectively for fluffy rolls.
Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
Allow Adequate Rising Time: Let the dough rise until it doubles in size. Patience here leads to lighter rolls.
Check Spice Levels: Adjust spices according to your taste preference; don’t hesitate to customize!
Don’t Skip the Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds essential moisture and flavor — it’s a must!
Serve Freshly Baked: While they can be stored, these rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Chai cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own but can be paired with side dishes for a more complete meal. Here are some great options:

Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the rolls.
Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your breakfast, creating a filling meal alongside sweet treats.
Breakfast Sausages – Savory sausages offer a hearty element that pairs well with sweet cinnamon flavors.
Granola – Serve granola on the side for an added crunch; it’s delicious when combined with yogurt too!
Tea or Coffee – Always consider serving chai tea or coffee as they enhance the overall experience of enjoying chai cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your chai cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

Not blooming the yeast: Failing to activate the yeast properly can result in dense rolls. Always bloom your yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar.
Too much flour: Adding too much flour can make your rolls dry. Measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Be patient and let your dough rest until it doubles in size.
Overbaking: Baking your rolls too long will make them tough. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time and remove them when golden brown.
Ignoring temperature for frosting: If your cream cheese is too cold, it won’t mix smoothly. Ensure it’s softened at room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover chai cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds on high power.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chai cinnamon rolls.

Can I use different spices in my chai cinnamon rolls?

You can certainly customize the spices! Feel free to adjust or substitute spices like nutmeg or ginger according to your taste preferences.

How do I make my chai cinnamon rolls vegan?

Replace the butter with vegan alternatives and use plant-based milk instead of whole milk. You can also substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce.

Can I prepare chai cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into rolls, and refrigerate overnight before baking. Just let them rise before baking.

What makes these chai cinnamon rolls special?

The combination of chai spices with a creamy frosting creates a delightful flavor profile that’s perfect for cozy fall mornings or any occasion!

How do I store leftover chai cinnamon rolls?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage, as mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

These chai cinnamon rolls are not just a treat; they embody comfort and warmth that make any morning special. Ideal for sharing with loved ones or enjoying quietly with coffee, feel free to customize them by adding nuts or raisins for extra texture. Enjoy this delightful recipe any time you crave something sweet!

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Chai Cinnamon Rolls

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Author: Nora
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the cozy comfort of Chai Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful fusion of warm chai spices and soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are filled with a rich brown sugar chai filling and topped with a creamy frosting that will leave everyone wanting more. With gooey caramel sauce on the bottom, they encapsulate the essence of fall, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of chai tea or coffee, these homemade delights are sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

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 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
Additional spices for filling and frosting including more cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves

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Instructions

Warm 1 1/4 cups of whole milk to about 110°F. Combine it with 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast and 1 tsp granulated sugar in a small bowl. Let sit until frothy (about 5 minutes).
In a stand mixer, mix 4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp salt, spices (cinnamon, ginger), eggs, vanilla extract, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth.
Transfer to a greased bowl and let rise covered for about an hour until doubled.
Roll out dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over it and sprinkle with a mixture of light brown sugar and spices.
Roll tightly into a log shape and slice into pieces. Place in a greased baking dish and let rise again for approximately 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
Drizzle with heavy cream before frosting with cream cheese icing.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast/Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American