Go Back
Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Admin

Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Chai Cinnamon Rolls take the classic comfort of traditional cinnamon rolls and infuse them with the cozy, aromatic flavors of chai spices. Imagine soft, fluffy dough spiraled with a sweet brown sugar filling and rich notes of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Topped with a velvety glaze, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent treat with a warm drink. The balance of sweetness and spice makes these rolls stand out, offering something a little more exotic than your typical cinnamon bun. Whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy weekend morning or serving them to guests, these rolls create a warm, bakery-style experience right at home. Each bite brings a swirl of soft texture and bold, spiced flavor that’s both nostalgic and unique. If you love chai lattes and cinnamon pastries, this recipe will become a new favorite
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough
  • ¾ cup warm milk 110°F
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For the Chai-Spiced Filling
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • For the Glaze
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 –3 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract optional: pinch of chai spice for extra flavor

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, eggs, and melted butter, mixing until smooth. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing to form a soft dough. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  2. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and all chai spices until a smooth paste forms. Set aside.
  3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16x12 inches). Spread the chai filling evenly over the dough. Roll tightly from the long side into a log, then slice into 12 equal rolls. Place in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 20–30 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown. While they cool slightly, whisk together glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Notes

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: Store glazed or unglazed rolls in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
Make Ahead: Prep and refrigerate unbaked rolls overnight; bring to room temp before baking.