Chai Cinnamon Rolls

I have a deep love for cinnamon rolls, but these Chai Cinnamon Rolls take that love to an entirely new level. Infused with the warming spices of a traditional chai blend—think cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and a hint of black pepper—these rolls are a comforting twist on the classic recipe. They're soft, fluffy, and generously swirled with a spiced brown sugar filling, then finished with a creamy chai-infused frosting that melts right into the warm rolls. It’s a treat that fills the house with an irresistible aroma and begs to be shared over coffee or tea.

Making these rolls has become one of my favorite weekend rituals, especially as the weather cools. The dough is soft and easy to work with, and the spice mix offers an incredible depth of flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the rolls. Whether you're looking to impress brunch guests or just want to indulge in something cozy, these Chai Cinnamon Rolls are exactly what your weekend mornings need.

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Why You’ll Love These Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls are pure comfort food with a sophisticated twist. The chai spice adds complexity and warmth, transforming a beloved breakfast classic into something truly special. They're perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or anytime you want to elevate your baking game. Plus, they make your kitchen smell like heaven!

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What Kind of Chai Spice Should I Use?

You can use store-bought chai spice blends, but I recommend making your own to control the balance of flavors. A good chai mix typically includes ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and a touch of black pepper. Freshly ground spices will give you the most aromatic and flavorful result.

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Options for Substitutions

• Milk: Any dairy or non-dairy milk works well in the dough. Oat milk and almond milk are especially good alternatives.
• Butter: Swap with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is best, but bread flour will give you an even chewier texture. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Sugar: Brown sugar deepens the flavor, but you can use coconut sugar or white sugar if needed.
• Chai spice: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste or use a pumpkin spice blend in a pinch.

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Ingredients for These Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness; warm it slightly to activate the yeast.
• Instant yeast: Speeds up the rising process without compromising texture.
• Granulated sugar: A bit in the dough to feed the yeast and balance the spices.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Softens the dough and enriches the rolls.
• Eggs: Help bind the dough and give it a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar: Used in the filling for its deep, molasses-like sweetness.
• Chai spice blend: The star of the show, both in the filling and the frosting.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and pairs perfectly with chai flavors.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances both the dough and the frosting with rich aroma.
• Cream cheese: For the tangy, rich frosting that melts into the rolls.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth.
• Heavy cream or milk (for frosting): Adjusts the consistency for spreadability.

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Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk (about 110°F), yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. Add the eggs, melted butter, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix in the flour gradually until a sticky dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

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Step 2: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 3: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, chai spice blend, cinnamon, and softened butter to form a paste. This will create that signature spiced swirl inside each roll.

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Step 4: Roll and Fill the Dough

After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16x12 inches). Spread the chai filling evenly across the dough, reaching all the edges.

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Step 5: Roll Up and Slice

Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls using dental floss or a sharp knife. Place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

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Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes, until they puff up and fill the pan. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

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Step 7: Bake

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

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Step 8: Make the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, chai spice, and a splash of milk or cream until smooth and fluffy.

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Step 9: Frost and Serve

Spread the chai frosting over the warm rolls so it melts slightly into the swirls. Serve immediately while still warm, with a hot chai latte or coffee.

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How Long to Prepare the Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Prep Time: Most of the work happens during prep, which includes making the dough, filling, frosting, and allowing for two rises. Expect this to take about 2 to 2.5 hours, including rest time.

Baking Time: Once risen, the rolls bake in the oven for about 20–25 minutes. They should be lightly golden on top but still soft inside. Total time with both rises, baking, and cooling is around 3 hours.

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Tips for Perfect Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth dough and even baking.
• Don't skip the second rise—it ensures light, fluffy rolls.
• Roll the dough evenly to get consistent swirls in every piece.
• Use a ruler and floss to cut clean slices without squishing the roll.
• Add the frosting while the rolls are still warm so it melts slightly into each swirl.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the milk: Hot milk can kill the yeast. Keep it around 110°F.
• Too much flour: Adding too much can make the rolls dry. The dough should be slightly sticky.
• Under-kneading: Not kneading enough means the rolls won’t be as fluffy.
• Underbaking: Rolls should be lightly golden; raw dough in the center is a common pitfall.
• Skipping the spice balance: Don’t just add cinnamon—let the chai spices shine with balance.

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What to Serve With Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

1. Masala Chai or Chai Latte

The perfect drink to echo the flavors in the rolls.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad

Adds freshness and a light contrast to the rich rolls.

3. Scrambled Eggs

A savory side balances out the sweet cinnamon flavor.

4. Greek Yogurt with Honey

Creamy and slightly tart, it complements the spiced sweetness.

5. Maple Glazed Bacon

For a salty-sweet combo that pairs unexpectedly well.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the rolls within 1–2 days, you can store them covered tightly at room temperature. Keep them away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.

Freezing: Freeze baked and cooled rolls individually or in the pan, wrapped tightly in plastic and foil. They’ll last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (per roll, including frosting)

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Cholesterol: 45mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these rolls ahead of time?

Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp and rise for 30–45 minutes before baking.

Can I use store-bought chai spice?

Yes! Just be sure it's fresh and aromatic. Homemade gives more control over flavor strength.

Why are my rolls not fluffy?

This usually comes from under-kneading or not letting the dough rise long enough. Be patient and give it time to puff up.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer like flaxseed meal.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwave for 15–20 seconds with a damp paper towel over the top, or gently rewarm in a 300°F oven.

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Conclusion

These Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a fragrant, spiced-up twist on the classic that feels both nostalgic and new. Whether you're looking for a cozy weekend bake, a festive holiday breakfast, or a new favorite sweet treat, this recipe checks all the boxes. The layers of chai-spiced goodness, soft fluffy texture, and creamy frosting make each bite unforgettable. Try them once, and they might just become your go-to cinnamon roll variation.

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