Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a warm, spiced twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining the cozy flavors of chai—like cardamom, cinnamon, and vanilla—for an irresistibly sweet and aromatic treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fill your kitchen with the comforting scent of chai spices and are topped with a simple vanilla glaze for just the right amount of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chai cinnamon rolls take everything you love about traditional cinnamon rolls and elevate them with warm, fragrant chai-inspired spices. The combination of cinnamon and cardamom in both the dough and the filling creates a beautifully layered flavor. The rolls are soft, fluffy, and comforting, and the vanilla glaze ties everything together with a touch of sweetness. Whether for a weekend brunch or holiday breakfast, these rolls are sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 cup warm milk
1/2 cup sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp ground cardamom

Glaze:

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp milk
Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm milk. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover with a towel and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Roll the dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the surface.
Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom together and sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 even slices. Arrange in a greased baking pan.
Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Whisk together the glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Variations

Add a Chai Glaze: Infuse the glaze with chai tea by steeping a bag in the milk before mixing it into the powdered sugar.
Extra Spice: Include a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for a deeper chai flavor.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a bit of crunch.
Vegan Version: Substitute dairy milk with almond milk and use plant-based butter and egg replacers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, after the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and shaping.

2. Can I freeze these chai cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. You can also freeze baked rolls and reheat when needed.

3. How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel soft and puffy when gently pressed.

4. Can I make this recipe without cardamom?

Yes, you can omit the cardamom or replace it with other spices like nutmeg or cloves, though it won’t have the signature chai flavor.

5. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, just skip the proofing step and mix the instant yeast directly into the dry ingredients.

6. Can I use store-bought dough?

For convenience, you can use store-bought cinnamon roll dough and add the chai spice blend to the filling for a quick version.

7. Can I use chai tea in the glaze?

Yes, steep a chai tea bag in warm milk, then use that milk to make your glaze for extra chai flavor.

8. How do I make these rolls extra soft?

Don’t overbake them and be sure to let the dough rise until it’s doubled for the fluffiest texture.

9. Can I add a cream cheese frosting instead of glaze?

Definitely! A cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the warm spices in these rolls.

10. What can I serve with chai cinnamon rolls?

Serve with hot tea, coffee, or a chai latte for a perfect cozy combo.

Conclusion

Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a comforting, spiced treat perfect for chilly mornings, holiday brunches, or anytime you crave something sweet and special. With warm notes of cardamom and cinnamon wrapped in soft, golden dough and finished with a silky glaze, these rolls are a delicious twist on a beloved classic. Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to in your baking rotation!

Chai Cinnamon Rolls

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Print Recipe

Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a cozy, spiced twist on the classic cinnamon roll, filled with warm chai spices like cinnamon and cardamom, then drizzled with a simple vanilla glaze. Soft, fluffy, and aromatic, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The rich chai flavors elevate this beloved treat, making it a must-try recipe!

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

Instructions

In a small bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until dough forms.
Knead dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Roll dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface, spread softened butter on top.
Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom together, and sprinkle it evenly over the buttered dough.
Roll dough into a log and cut into 12 slices. Arrange in a greased baking pan.
Let rolls rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Notes

Chai Glaze: Infuse the glaze with chai tea by steeping a bag in the milk.
Extra Spice: Add ginger or cloves for more depth.
Nutty Addition: Add walnuts or pecans to the filling.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert, Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, Fusion
Diet: Vegetarian