Chai Cinnamon Rolls
These Chai Cinnamon Rolls will quickly become your new favorite treat! With a delightful combination of chai spices and a gooey filling, they offer a warm and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at brunch, enjoying them with a cozy cup of tea, or sharing with friends during a fall gathering, these rolls stand out with their rich flavors and soft texture. The addition of chai cream cheese frosting makes them even more indulgent!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of chai spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: Each roll is light and airy, making them an enjoyable treat for all ages.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
- Decadent Frosting: The chai cream cheese frosting takes these rolls to the next level of deliciousness.
- Impressive Presentation: These rolls look beautiful on any table, making them great for entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Chai Cinnamon Rolls, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. This will ensure your baking process goes smoothly and that you achieve the perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Rubber spatula
- Kitchen thermometer (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Makes mixing dough effortless and ensures even incorporation of ingredients.
- Baking dish: A good quality baking dish helps in achieving even baking for 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 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
For the 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
Additional Ingredients
For drizzling:
– 1 1/2 tsp salt
– Heavy cream as needed
How to Make Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk until it reaches about 110 degrees F. In a bowl, combine warm milk with yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and spices. Gradually add this mixture into the yeast mixture along with whisked eggs and vanilla extract. Use a stand mixer or your hands to combine until a dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare Filling
While waiting for the dough to rise, steep two chai tea bags in heavy cream for about 10 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together softened butter and light brown sugar along with spices until smooth.
Step 5: Roll Out Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread filling evenly over rolled-out dough.
Step 6: Shape Rolls
Starting from one end of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Cut into equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place cut rolls into prepared baking dish. Cover again and let rise for another hour until puffed.
Step 8: Bake Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for approximately 30 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Frosting Preparation
While rolls are baking, beat together softened butter and cream cheese in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract until combined.
Step 10: Serve Warm
Once baked, remove rolls from oven. Allow cooling slightly before spreading frosting on top while they are still warm. Enjoy your delectable Chai Cinnamon Rolls!
How to Serve Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Chai cinnamon rolls are not just a delightful treat; they can also be served in various ways that enhance their flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your chai cinnamon rolls experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Apples: The crispness of fresh apples pairs beautifully with the warm, gooey rolls.
- Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries adds a refreshing tang that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
Alongside a Warm Beverage
- Chai Latte: Complement your chai cinnamon rolls with a rich chai latte for a cozy pairing.
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee balances the sweetness, making for a perfect breakfast or snack.
Topped with Nuts
- Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Walnuts: Toasted walnuts can enhance the texture and richness of the rolls.
Drizzled with Extra Frosting
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A little extra frosting on top makes these rolls even more indulgent.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce for an irresistible sweet touch.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Mixed Pastries: Include chai cinnamon rolls in a spread alongside other pastries for a varied brunch table.
- Savory Dishes: Pair with savory items like quiche or breakfast casseroles for a balanced meal.
How to Perfect Chai Cinnamon Rolls
To achieve the ultimate chai cinnamon rolls, follow these simple tips to ensure they turn out soft, fluffy, and full of flavor.
- Use Warm Milk: Warmed milk helps activate yeast effectively, resulting in better rise and texture.
- Knead Properly: Kneading the dough long enough ensures gluten development, yielding soft rolls.
- Let it Rise Fully: Allow sufficient time for dough to rise; this enhances flavor and fluffiness.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spice levels according to personal preference for bolder flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Serving chai cinnamon rolls can be enhanced by pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are some fantastic options that work well together.
- Greek Yogurt: The creaminess offers a nice contrast, plus it adds protein to your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add savory richness, perfect for breakfast gatherings.
- Breakfast Sausages: Savory sausages bring heartiness that complements sweet flavors well.
- Granola Parfait: Layered granola with yogurt and fruits creates a delightful contrast in textures.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado toast can be an unexpected yet delicious side dish enhancing brunch vibes.
- Oatmeal Muffins: Serve with oatmeal muffins for additional bite-sized treats alongside the sweet rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chai cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls is key to achieving the perfect treat.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or butter can hinder yeast activation. Always warm your milk to about 110 degrees F and use softened butter for the best texture.
- Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can make your rolls dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurement.
- Over or under-kneading the dough: Knead until smooth and elastic but stop before it becomes tough. This ensures fluffy rolls.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffiness. Patience leads to better results with your chai cinnamon rolls.
- Not testing the yeast: If your yeast isn’t alive, your rolls won’t rise. Always bloom it in warm water with sugar before starting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making chai cinnamon rolls.
Can I make Chai Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to the second rise, cover well, and refrigerate overnight.
What type of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour works best for these chai cinnamon rolls due to its balance of protein content.
Can I substitute chai tea bags?
Absolutely! You can use loose chai tea or even other flavored teas that you enjoy.
How do I customize my Chai Cinnamon Rolls?
Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or swap spices based on personal preference for unique flavors!
Why did my cinnamon rolls not rise properly?
This could be due to inactive yeast. Always check if your yeast is fresh and blooming properly before use.
Final Thoughts
Chai cinnamon rolls are not only indulgent and delightful but also versatile! You can customize them with different spices or fillings based on your taste preferences. Try this comforting recipe this fall; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate cozy treat for fall! Bursting with aromatic chai spices and enveloped in a gooey brown sugar filling, these soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a sweet breakfast, serving them at a delightful brunch, or treating friends to a comforting dessert, they will surely impress. Topped with a luscious chai cream cheese frosting and perhaps a drizzle of warm caramel, these indulgent rolls promise to warm your heart and home. Get ready to bake a batch that will become your new favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for dough and filling)
- Chai spices: cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves
- Cream cheese (for frosting)
Instructions
- Warm the milk to about 110°F and mix with yeast and sugar; let froth for 5-10 minutes.
- Combine flour, salt, and spices in another bowl. Gradually mix into the yeast mixture along with eggs and vanilla.
- Knead the dough until smooth and let rise for about an hour until doubled in size.
- Prepare the chai filling by steeping tea bags in heavy cream. Mix butter with brown sugar and spices after steeping.
- Roll out the dough, spread the filling evenly, roll tightly into a log, and cut into pieces.
- Place in a baking dish to rise again for an hour before baking at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
- Beat together frosting ingredients; spread on warm rolls before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (110g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
