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Chai Cinnamon Rolls

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Soft, fluffy Chai Cinnamon Rolls infused with warm chai spices and topped with a creamy glaze. These spiced breakfast rolls are perfect for cozy mornings or festive brunches. Packed with cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, these chai-flavored cinnamon rolls will become your favorite fall or winter treat.

Ingredients

  • Dough:
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Chai Spice Mix:
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground allspice
  • Filling:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 ½ tbsp chai spice mix (from above)
  • Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
  • 12 tbsp milk (as needed)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Optional: a pinch of chai spice mix

Instructions

  • Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  • Make Dough: Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Mix and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  • Prepare Chai Spice Mix: In a small bowl, mix all the chai spices together.
  • Make Filling: In another bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and 1½ tbsp of the chai spice mix.
  • Assemble Rolls: Roll dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the chai filling evenly over the dough. Roll tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 rolls.
  • Second Rise: Place rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
  • Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Make Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.
  • Serve: Sprinkle with extra chai spice (optional) and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them before the second rise. Let them come to room temp and rise before baking.
  • For extra flavor, add a chai tea bag steeped in warm milk and cooled before using it in the dough.
  • These rolls freeze well for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.
  • For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese.