Description

Chai Cinnamon Rolls combine the warmth of traditional cinnamon rolls with the aromatic spices of chai tea. These soft, fluffy rolls are infused with chai spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves, giving them a comforting, aromatic twist on the classic breakfast treat. With a silky cream cheese glaze that complements the spice blend, these rolls are perfect for a cozy morning or any occasion that calls for a sweet and fragrant dessert. Whether served for brunch, dessert, or with your morning coffee, these Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious way to start your day.

Ingredients

Scale

For the dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (more for dusting)
1 large egg

For the filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

For the cream cheese glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)

Instructions

Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Add the activated yeast mixture, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in the egg and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 3-4 minutes.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves for the filling. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
Spread the Butter and Fill:
Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Then sprinkle the spice and sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Roll and Slice:
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, cut the dough into 12 even slices (you can use dental floss or a sharp knife).
Second Rise:
Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the Rolls:
Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Check them at the 20-minute mark to ensure they don’t overbake.
Make the Glaze:
While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk for desired consistency.

1. Glaze and Serve:
  
  Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls and serve.

Notes

For a stronger chai flavor: Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of chai spice blend or steep a chai tea bag in the milk before using it to activate the yeast.
Make ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, allow the dough to come to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.

1. For an extra touch: Top the rolls with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (excluding rising time)
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: chai cinnamon rolls, spiced cinnamon rolls, chai spice, breakfast rolls, cream cheese glaze, homemade cinnamon rolls