If there’s one thing that can truly warm your heart and soul, it’s the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filled with the comforting spices of chai. Whether it’s the chill of a winter morning or you’re simply craving a sweet, cozy treat, chai spiced cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are a perfect choice. These rolls offer a balance of spiced warmth and sweetness that will instantly transport you to a place of comfort.
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making the most delectable chai spiced cinnamon rolls from scratch, complete with a velvety chai caramel sauce and rich cream cheese frosting. Get ready to enjoy every step of this delightful baking adventure, and by the end, you’ll have a warm batch of these melt-in-your-mouth rolls to share with friends, family, or simply to enjoy yourself.
Why You’ll Love These Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfect Blend of Flavors
What sets these cinnamon rolls apart is the incredible fusion of spices that make them unforgettable. The chai spice blend—comprising cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves—infuses both the dough and the filling, creating layers of warmth and depth. When paired with the sweetness of caramel and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these rolls become a dessert or breakfast that’s truly hard to resist.
Soft, Fluffy Texture
The dough is light and fluffy, ensuring that each bite is tender and melts in your mouth. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to achieve this texture. With a little patience for the dough to rise and a gentle hand while rolling it out, you’ll achieve perfect, pillowy rolls that are worth every minute. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/baked-spinach-mushroom-quesadillas-3/
Great for Special Occasions or Cozy Mornings
These chai spiced cinnamon rolls are versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday brunch, giving them as a gift, or enjoying them with a hot cup of tea on a cold morning, they bring a little extra warmth and cheer to your day. The comforting aroma of cinnamon and chai spices adds a festive feel, making them the perfect treat for special moments.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best things about these rolls is that they can be prepared in advance. You can make the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge. This way, you can pop them into the oven fresh in the morning without any fuss, making them an excellent choice for a relaxed weekend breakfast or a special occasion.
Ingredients for Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls
Before diving into the instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious recipe. This recipe is divided into four parts: the dough, the chai caramel sauce, the chai filling, and the cream cheese frosting. By organizing the ingredients this way, you’ll easily know what to grab before you start baking.
For the Dough
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Warm whole milk (110°F) | 1 1/4 cups |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 tsp |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tsp |
| All-purpose flour | 4 3/4 cups |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Ground ginger | 3/4 tsp |
| Ground allspice | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground cardamom | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground cloves | 1/8 tsp |
| Salt | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Large eggs (whisked) | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tbsp |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup |
For the Chai Caramel Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 1/3 cup |
| Chai tea bags | 2 |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup |
| Light brown sugar (packed) | 1 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Ground ginger | 3/4 tsp |
| Ground allspice | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground cardamom | 3/4 tsp |
| Ground cloves | 1/8 tsp |
| Honey | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
For the Chai Filling
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup |
| Light brown sugar (packed) | 1 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tbsp |
| Ground ginger | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Ground allspice | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground cardamom | 1 tsp |
| Ground cloves | 1/4 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup |
For the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 6 tbsp |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 6 oz |
| Powdered sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground ginger | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground allspice | 1/8 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/8 tsp |
| Ground cardamom | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground cloves | Pinch |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls
1. Preparing the Dough
Start by combining the warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This activates the yeast, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.
While the yeast is working its magic, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl or stand mixer. The spices will permeate the dough, giving it that signature chai flavor.
Add the whisked eggs, vanilla extract, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and mix until the dough begins to come together. Once combined, switch to a dough hook (if using a stand mixer) and knead for 7-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Form the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and place it in a warm spot. Let it rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Making the Chai Caramel Sauce
While the dough is rising, it’s time to prepare the chai caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until it’s steaming. Once it’s warm, add the chai tea bags and let them steep for about 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the cream cool to room temperature.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, honey, vanilla, and salt. Add the cooled chai-infused cream to the mixture and stir until everything is smooth and well combined.
Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the chai caramel sauce evenly over the bottom. Set it aside for now.
3. Preparing the Chai Filling
To make the filling, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until everything is smooth and evenly combined.
4. Assembling the Rolls
Once the dough has finished rising, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 18 inches long and 12 inches wide. Spread the chai filling evenly over the surface of the dough.
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Trim the ends to make the roll even, then slice it into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are nestled in the chai caramel sauce. Pour the heavy cream between the rolls, which will keep them soft and add extra richness as they bake.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for about an hour, or until they double in size.
5. Baking the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 29-32 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes before adding the frosting.
6. Making the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until they are light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract and ground spices (cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves). Continue to beat until everything is smooth and creamy.
7. Serving the Rolls
Spread the chai cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls, allowing the frosting to melt into every crevice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls
- Dough Rising: Be patient with the dough. Allowing it to rise fully is key to achieving the soft, fluffy texture you’re looking for. If you’re in a rush, try placing the dough in a warm oven (turned off) to speed up the process.
- Chai Tea Bags: Use high-quality chai tea for the best flavor infusion. If you prefer, you can substitute ground spices directly into the caramel sauce, though using tea bags creates a more complex flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prep these rolls the night before! Just assemble the rolls and cover them with plastic wrap. Let them rise in the refrigerator overnight, and bake them fresh the next morning.
- Serving Suggestions: These rolls pair perfectly with a hot cup of chai tea or coffee. For an extra treat, drizzle some additional chai caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls
Can I make these rolls without chai tea bags?
Yes, you can. If you don’t have chai tea bags, simply use ground chai spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, etc.) in the caramel sauce. This will still give you that signature chai flavor, though it may not be quite as rich as using chai tea.
How do I store leftover rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have more than you can eat, place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven to enjoy them warm again.
Can I freeze these chai spiced cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! These rolls freeze beautifully. You can freeze them before baking (after assembling and letting them rise) or after they’ve been baked. To bake from frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, and bake as usual.
Conclusion: The Perfect Cozy Treat
There’s something magical about chai spiced cinnamon rolls. The delicate mix of warm spices, caramel, and cream cheese frosting creates a treat that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning, these rolls will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma and provide a comforting experience for everyone who gets to enjoy them.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these mouthwatering chai spiced cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting. You won’t regret it—every bite is a warm hug for your taste buds.
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Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Cozy, Flavorful Treat for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 2 hours30 minutes
Description
- Indulge in chai spiced cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting—perfectly spiced and irresistibly soft.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 1 1/4 cups warm whole milk (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the Chai Caramel Sauce:
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 chai tea bags
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 3/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- For the Chai Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for pouring between rolls)
- For the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- Pinch of ground cloves
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together flour, spices, salt, and sugar.
- Add the whisked eggs, vanilla, and softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix.
- Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until combined. Switch to a dough hook and knead for 7-10 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl and is smooth.
- Form the dough into a ball and place in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 1/2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Make the Chai Caramel Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until steaming. Add the tea bags and steep for 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the cream cool to room temperature.
- In a medium bowl, mix together butter, brown sugar, spices, honey, vanilla, and salt. Add the chai-infused cream and mix until smooth.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the chai caramel sauce evenly over the bottom.
- Prepare the Chai Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, spices, and salt. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into an 18×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the chai brown sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge and trim the ends to make the roll even. Slice into 12 rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in the prepared dish with the chai caramel sauce. Pour the heavy cream between the rolls.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake the rolls for 29-32 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Make the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and spices, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Finish and Serve:
- Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes, then spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve and enjoy!
- Details: These chai spiced cinnamon rolls are filled with a sweet chai caramel sauce and a rich chai cream cheese frosting. They’re perfect for a cozy morning or any special occasion, blending comforting cinnamon flavors with the warmth of chai spices.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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