Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, infusing the beloved warm spices of chai tea into the dough and filling. The rich combination of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves melds beautifully with the buttery, soft texture of the rolls, creating a comforting, aromatic breakfast or dessert. These rolls offer all the deliciousness of cinnamon rolls but with an added layer of exotic spice, making them a unique treat that’s perfect for chilly mornings or cozy gatherings.

The secret to these chai cinnamon rolls is in the blend of spices that replicate the flavor of chai tea, giving them a fragrant and warming flavor profile. The soft, pillowy dough rises beautifully, while the filling melts into every swirl, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Topped with a sweet glaze that complements the spices, these rolls are a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Whether you’re a chai lover or simply looking for a new spin on your cinnamon roll recipe, these chai cinnamon rolls are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor

The combination of chai spices—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves—brings an entirely new and exciting flavor to traditional cinnamon rolls.

2. Soft, Fluffy Texture

These rolls bake to perfection, creating a soft, tender dough that melts in your mouth with each bite.

3. Perfect for Special Occasions

These chai cinnamon rolls are ideal for holidays, brunches, or any occasion where you want to impress guests with something deliciously unique.

4. Customizable Glaze

You can make the glaze as sweet or spicy as you like, adding just the right touch of sweetness to complement the chai flavors.

5. Make-Ahead Option

Prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight, so you can bake fresh rolls the next morning with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Active dry yeast
• Salt
• Milk
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs

For the Filling:

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cardamom
• Ground ginger
• Ground cloves
• Unsalted butter (softened)

For the Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk or cream
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Vanilla extract (optional)

Variations

• Vegan Chai Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk. Use a flaxseed egg replacement for the eggs.
• Maple Chai Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the glaze with a maple syrup drizzle for a richer, more autumnal flavor.
• Nuts and Raisins: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
• Chai Icing: Infuse the glaze with chai tea by steeping a chai bag in warm milk or cream before mixing it with the powdered sugar for a stronger chai flavor in the glaze.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes foamy. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, make the filling by mixing the brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves in a small bowl. Set aside. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12×18 inches. Spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Evenly sprinkle the chai spice mixture over the buttered dough.

Step 3: Roll and Slice the Dough

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log. Once rolled, cut the dough into 12 even slices. Place the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round cake pan, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffed up.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chai cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. The center should feel firm when lightly pressed.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, make the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract (if using) together in a bowl until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Glaze the Rolls

Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before drizzling the glaze over them. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, spiced goodness of your homemade chai cinnamon rolls!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the dough to rise fully to get light and fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this process!
• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise. If it doesn’t foam in warm milk, it may be expired.
• Evenly Spread the Filling: Be sure to spread the chai spice mixture evenly across the dough to get consistent flavor in every bite.
• Check for Doneness: When the rolls are golden brown on top, they’re done. You can also use a toothpick to check if they’re fully baked in the center.
• Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of chai spices in the filling to suit your preference. More cardamom will give it a stronger chai flavor!

How to Serve

These chai cinnamon rolls are best served warm, fresh out of the oven, with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy afternoon snack. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover chai cinnamon rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their softness.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls before baking. After slicing the rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. For microwave reheating, cover the rolls with a damp paper towel and heat for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast without needing to proof it in warm milk. Simply mix it directly into the flour.

2. Can I make these rolls the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and rolls the night before, place them in the refrigerator, and bake them fresh the next morning. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

3. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Once the dough has risen, follow the remaining steps to shape, fill, and bake the rolls.

4. Can I make these chai cinnamon rolls without a glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a less sweet version, or substitute it with a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

5. How do I prevent the rolls from becoming too dry?

Ensure that the rolls don’t overbake by checking them around the 25-minute mark. If the tops begin to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these rolls gluten-free. Be sure to check the package instructions for any adjustments.

7. How long does the dough need to rise?

The dough should rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Make sure to place it in a warm spot to help it rise efficiently.

8. Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds would make a great addition to the filling for some added crunch and flavor.

9. Can I use a different kind of milk?

Yes, you can use any kind of milk, including almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, for this recipe. Make sure to adjust for any sweetness or flavor differences.

10. How do I get the perfect swirl in my rolls?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly and evenly so that each slice has a beautiful swirl of filling. Use a sharp knife or floss to slice the rolls without squashing them.

Conclusion

Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing the comforting flavors of chai tea into the mix. These soft, spiced rolls are perfect for any occasion and are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. With their fragrant, warm spices and rich glaze, they’re a treat that’s as satisfying to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re enjoying them with family, friends, or by yourself, these chai cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to bring comfort and joy to your day.

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