Chai Cinnamon Rolls
These Chai Cinnamon Rolls blend the comforting sweetness of classic cinnamon rolls with the warm, aromatic spices of chai. Soft, fluffy, and glazed with a chai-infused icing, they’re perfect for cozy mornings, brunch gatherings, or holiday baking. Every bite offers a swirl of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger — a true taste of comfort you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast or active dry yeast, bloomed
- ¾ cup warm milk 110°F/43°C
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chai Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
For the Chai Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp brewed chai tea or milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Activate the Yeast (if using active dry):
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk with 1 teaspoon of sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- (Skip this step if using instant yeast.)
Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add milk, egg, yolk, vanilla, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Chai Filling:
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves with softened butter to form a spreadable paste.
Roll Out the Dough:
- Roll the dough into a rectangle (about ¼-inch thick). Spread the chai filling evenly across the surface.
Shape the Rolls:
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces. Place them in a greased baking dish, spacing them slightly apart.
Second Rise:
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown on top.
Make the Chai Glaze:
- Whisk together powdered sugar, brewed chai tea, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm with your morning coffee or chai latte for a cozy treat.
Notes
- Use pure chai spice for authentic flavor — avoid blends with added sugar.
- For a nuttier flavor, use browned butter in the filling.
- To make ahead, refrigerate shaped rolls overnight and bake fresh in the morning.
- Don’t overbake — remove once tops are golden for a soft, fluffy texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSugar: 20g
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