The Coziest Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Fall Mornings

Warm chai spices dance through these delightful cinnamon rolls, promising a cozy morning treat that whispers comfort.

Fragrant cardamom and ginger weave magic into soft, pillowy dough with unexpected depth.

Sweet cinnamon swirls promise a magical breakfast experience that feels like a warm hug.

Delicate layers promise to melt in your mouth, bringing exotic tea-inspired flavors to a classic pastry.

Each roll carries complex aromatics that transport you to bustling Indian markets and quiet morning moments.

Baking these rolls fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone closer.

Come and let these chai-spiced rolls become your new weekend breakfast obsession.

FAQs

• What are chai spices?

Chai spices are a traditional blend of warming spices from India, typically including cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and sometimes black pepper, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight, which can enhance the flavor and make morning baking easier.

• How do I know when the dough is properly kneaded?

The dough should be smooth, elastic, and spring back when gently pressed, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes of kneading by hand or 5-7 minutes in a stand mixer.

What Makes Chai Cinnamon Rolls Unique

• Savor Sophisticated Flavors: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish with a luxurious white wine and creamy tomato sauce that elevates ordinary pasta night.
• Speedy Gourmet Meal: Preparation takes minimal effort, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with tender shrimp and a rich, velvety sauce, this pasta satisfies everyone from picky eaters to serious food lovers, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
• Versatile Weeknight Wonder: Easily adaptable for date nights, quick lunches, or elegant dinner parties, this recipe proves gourmet cooking can be both simple and impressive.

Ingredients for Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• All-Purpose Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure and texture to the cinnamon rolls.
• Milk: Helps activate the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
• Active Dry Yeast: Provides leavening and helps the dough rise.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.

• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough and filling.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the soft texture of the rolls.

• Chai Spices, Cinnamon: Create a warm, aromatic blend that gives the rolls their signature flavor.
• Powdered Sugar, Milk: Used to make a smooth, sweet glaze for drizzling over the rolls.

• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the rolls' taste.

How to Make These Chai-Spiced Rolls

Step 1: Awaken the Yeast

In a cozy mixing bowl, blend warm milk with active dry yeast and a touch of sugar. Let the mixture sit and bubble for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and alive with potential.

This magical moment is where your chai-spiced cinnamon rolls begin their delicious journey.

Step 2: Create the Dough Foundation

Melt butter and let it cool slightly.

• Eggs
• Salt
• All-purpose flour

Knead the ingredients until a smooth, elastic dough forms. The texture should feel soft and silky under your hands, promising incredible rolls to come.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise and Bloom

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and place in a warm, draft-free spot. Allow it to rise and double in size, which typically takes about 1 hour.

This resting period develops rich flavor and perfect texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Chai-Spiced Filling

Roll out the dough into a large rectangle.

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Cardamom
• Ginger
• Nutmeg

Step 5: Roll and Shape the Cinnamon Rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, creating beautiful swirls of spiced goodness.

Slice the log into individual rolls, placing them in a buttered baking dish with slight spacing between each roll.

Step 6: Final Rise and Bake

Let the rolls rise once more for about 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven and bake until the rolls turn a gorgeous golden brown, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 7: Finish with a Sweet Glaze

Whip up a simple glaze using powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.

Drizzle generously over the warm rolls, letting it cascade down the sides. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight.

Helpful Notes for Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Activate yeast carefully by using lukewarm milk to ensure proper rising and soft texture.
• Knead dough thoroughly for at least 8-10 minutes to develop gluten and create fluffy cinnamon rolls.
• Allow sufficient rising time in a warm, draft-free area for optimal dough expansion and light consistency.
• Use freshly ground chai spices for more intense, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the rolls.
• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container and gently reheat before serving to maintain their soft, delicate texture.

Twists for Chai Cinnamon Roll Lovers

• Maple Pecan Chai Rolls: Replace sugar filling with maple syrup and chopped pecans, adding a nutty, rich flavor profile.
• Cardamom Orange Zest Rolls: Incorporate fresh orange zest and extra cardamom into the filling for a bright, citrusy version.
• Chocolate Chai Swirl Rolls: Mix dark chocolate chips into the chai spice filling, creating a decadent chocolate-spice combination.
• Vegan Coconut Chai Rolls: Substitute dairy milk with coconut milk, use plant-based butter, and replace eggs with applesauce for a dairy-free alternative.

Best Way to Serve Spiced Cinnamon Rolls

• Cozy Morning Chai Breakfast Companion: Pair these rolls with a steaming mug of authentic masala chai for a perfect spice-filled morning ritual. The warm, fragrant tea complements the sweet cinnamon rolls beautifully.
• Weekend Brunch Showstopper: Serve alongside fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, and a light citrus salad to create a balanced and elegant brunch spread. The chai-spiced rolls become the centerpiece of a delightful gathering.
• Afternoon Tea Style Treat: Slice the rolls into smaller portions and arrange on a beautiful platter for an elegant tea time experience. Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar and fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of sophistication.

Keeping Cinnamon Rolls Warm and Moist

• Store cooled cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Wrap entire batch tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Separate rolls, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Keeps well for 2-3 weeks. Reheat directly from frozen state in microwave or oven.
• Keep rolls at room temperature for 1-2 days if planning to consume quickly. Place in covered container away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Chai-spiced Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delectable chai-spiced cinnamon rolls blend warm Indian spices with classic pastry comfort. Fragrant cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon create a rich, inviting breakfast treat you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 tsp (7 g) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (57 g) butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 2 tbsps ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 3 tbsps (43 g) butter

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Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm milk, whisking gently until frothy and fragrant, allowing mixture to sit for 5-7 minutes at room temperature.
2. Incorporate melted butter, eggs, and salt into the activated yeast mixture, then gradually fold in flour until a cohesive, elastic dough forms.
3. Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm environment for approximately 1 hour until volume doubles.
4. Punch down risen dough and roll out into a rectangular shape on a floured surface, ensuring even thickness.
5. Generously brush rolled dough with softened butter, then evenly distribute chai-spiced sugar mixture across the surface, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, creating a swirled pattern with filling, then slice into even segments using a sharp knife.
7. Arrange roll segments in a greased baking dish, allowing slight spacing between pieces for expansion.
8. Cover rolls and permit second rising for 30-40 minutes in a draft-free area until puffy.
9. Preheat oven to 375°F and bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and aromatic.
10. Remove from oven, drizzle with cream cheese glaze while warm, and serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

• Activate yeast carefully in warm (not hot) milk to ensure proper rising without killing the yeast.
• Use room temperature eggs and butter for smoother dough consistency and even mixing.
• Adjust chai spice blend based on personal taste preferences, experimenting with cardamom, ginger, and cloves for unique flavor profiles.
• For gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain soft texture.

• Prep Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 280 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg