Go Back
Freshly baked chai cinnamon rolls topped with icing and spices

Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Warm cinnamon rolls infused with the rich spices of chai, perfect for cozy gatherings and brunch.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 cup warm milk Can substitute plant-based milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 large eggs
For the Filling
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
For the Frosting
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • a pinch ground cardamom (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. To the yeast mixture, add the melted butter, eggs, salt, cardamom, ginger, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until well blended.
  3. Gradually mix in the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until the dough forms a soft ball.
  4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing the brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in a bowl.
Baking
  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the filling evenly on top.
  2. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
  3. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
  5. While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cardamom in a bowl until smooth.
  6. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the frosting over them while they are still warm. Serve them warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use fresh spices for best flavor. You can make these rolls ahead by preparing them up to the second rise, covering tightly, and refrigerating overnight. For storage, keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months.