Description
These soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls are infused with warm chai spices and topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup whole milk, warm
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- For the Chai Spice Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp ground cardamom
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Add yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
- Prepare filling: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and all chai spices until well combined.
- Roll out dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly over dough.
- Roll tightly from the long side and cut into 12 rolls. Place in greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Make frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beat until creamy. Add milk if too thick.
- Spread frosting over warm rolls. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra chai flavor, steep 2 chai tea bags in the warm milk for 5 minutes before using. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Protein: 7g