Chai Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you adore the warm, comforting spices of chai tea and the soft, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls, you are in for a treat with these Chai Cinnamon Rolls. They combine the classic cinnamon roll experience with the exotic, fragrant spices of chai, creating a uniquely delicious pastry that’s perfect for weekend brunches or cozy mornings. From the chai-infused caramel sauce sticky base to the luxurious chai cream cheese frosting, these rolls are an absolute flavor sensation that will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, whether it’s building the perfect tender dough, layering the chai spice flavors, or creating luscious textures. Simple staples come together with chai tea and a unique spice blend to make each bite unforgettable.

• Whole milk (warmed to 110°F): Activates the yeast for a fluffy, tender dough.
• Active dry yeast: The rising agent that gives the rolls their perfect airy texture.
• Granulated white sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and strength.
• Ground cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves: The signature chai spice mix that infuses every element with cozy, aromatic warmth.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• Eggs: Add richness and improve the dough’s elasticity.
• Vanilla extract: Compliments the chai spices with floral, sweet notes.
• Unsalted butter (very softened): Incorporates moisture and richness throughout the layers and filling.
• Heavy cream: Used for steeping chai tea for an indulgent caramel sauce and in the dough for tenderness.
• Chai tea bags: The secret ingredient that deepens the spiced flavor profile beyond ordinary cinnamon rolls.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness that pairs beautifully with chai.
• Honey: Brings natural sweetness and sticky texture to the caramel sauce.
• Cream cheese: The base for the frosting that balances the spice with creamy tang.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the frosting for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Start by mixing the active dry yeast, a teaspoon of sugar, and warmed whole milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top; this signals your yeast is alive and ready, which is key for fluffy rolls.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, combine the all-purpose flour, chai spices, salt, and sugar. Add the whisked eggs, vanilla, and softened butter, mixing gently before adding the yeast mixture. Switch to the dough hook and knead for about 7 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and springs back when pressed.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape your dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until it doubles in size. This rest time is crucial for developing gluten and flavor.

Step 4: Make the Chai Caramel Sauce

While the dough rises, gently warm the heavy cream on low and steep two chai tea bags for 10 minutes, then remove the bags and let it cool. Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, chai spices, honey, vanilla, salt, and the chai-infused cream until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish; this sauce will bubble up and coat the rolls with sticky, spiced sweetness as they bake.

Step 5: Prepare the Chai Filling

Mix softened butter, light brown sugar, chai spices, and salt until well combined. This creates a rich, warmly spiced layer that you’ll spread generously on the dough before rolling it up.

Step 6: Shape and Assemble

After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to roughly an 18 x 12 inch rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the chai filling evenly across the dough. Roll it up tightly starting from the long edge nearest you to form a log. Trim the ends for neatness, then slice into twelve 1 1/2 inch-wide rolls using unflavored floss or a sharp knife.

Step 7: Second Rise

Place the rolled slices into the casserole dish over the chai caramel sauce. Pour a little heavy cream between the rolls for extra moistness. Cover with plastic wrap and let proof in a warm spot for about an hour, until doubled in size and looking pillowy and inviting.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F about 15 minutes before ready. Bake the rolls for 29 to 32 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant. Perfect timing here means a lightly caramelized crust while still tender inside.

Step 9: Whip Up the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and the chai spice blend. Mix from low to high speed until the frosting is luscious and smooth—ready to dress those warm rolls right out of the oven.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

Once baked, allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before spreading them generously with the chai cream cheese frosting. Serve warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience packed full of comforting chai flavors.

How to Serve Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon or a few whole cardamom pods on top for a festive touch. A light dusting of chopped pistachios adds a lovely crunch and color contrast, complementing the warm spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a classic cup of chai tea or a robust coffee to enhance the spice notes. Fresh fruit, such as sliced oranges or a mixed berry salad, offers a bright, refreshing balance to the richness of the rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chai Cinnamon Rolls in a rustic wooden board lined with parchment for a charming, inviting presentation. For gatherings, cut rolls in half and create mini sliders with a smear of extra cream cheese frosting for an unexpected twist that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness. Refrigeration is also an option but can slightly dry the rolls unless wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Freezing

Chai Cinnamon Rolls freeze beautifully both before and after baking. To freeze before baking, shape the rolls and arrange them in the pan, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and allow a final proof before baking. For baked rolls, cool completely, wrap individually or in a container, and freeze up to three months.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls gently in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven covered with foil for 10-15 minutes. Adding a splash of cream or warming with a pat of butter keeps them moist and comforting as when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use chai spice mix instead of individual spices?

Absolutely! If you have a pre-made chai spice blend, it can simplify the process and still deliver that delicious flavor. Just adjust the amount to taste, since blends vary in intensity.

Are these rolls very sweet?

They have a balanced sweetness thanks to the brown sugar, honey, and cream cheese frosting, but the warm chai spices add complexity that prevents the rolls from tasting overly sugary.

Can I make the dough by hand instead of a mixer?

Yes! Kneading by hand takes a bit more time and elbow grease but produces the same fantastic dough texture. Just be sure to knead until smooth and elastic, about 10-12 minutes.

What kind of tea bags work best?

Traditional black chai tea bags with rich spices work best for infusing maximum flavor into the caramel sauce. Avoid flavored or herbal teas that may soften the distinct chai profile.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Definitely. This recipe scales up well. Use a larger baking dish or multiple pans and adjust the proofing time if needed. Just make sure your oven can accommodate the additional rolls.

Final Thoughts

These Chai Cinnamon Rolls are an effortless way to elevate your baking game with enchanting chai spices and luscious textures. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a cozy morning delight, these rolls bring warmth, joy, and that magical chai twist everyone will rave about. I promise, once you try them, you’ll keep coming back for more.

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