Chai-spiced Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen on a lazy weekend morning. But what if we took that classic treat to the next level? Enter these Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls—a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, infused with the warm, fragrant spices of chai tea.

I first came across this idea when I was sipping on my favorite masala chai on a crisp autumn afternoon. The combination of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves had me wondering—why not incorporate these cozy flavors into my favorite baked treat? The result? A batch of irresistibly soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls with a spiced brown sugar filling and a luscious chai-infused glaze.

Why You'll Love These Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to sweet treat. These Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try for any spice lover!

First, they bring a delightful twist to the traditional cinnamon roll. The chai spices add depth and warmth, making every bite more exciting than the last.

Second, they are surprisingly easy to make. While they do require some patience for the dough to rise, the steps are simple and approachable—even for beginners.

Third, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making them for a holiday brunch, a weekend breakfast, or a cozy afternoon treat, they always hit the spot.

Lastly, the chai-spiced glaze takes these rolls to the next level. Made with a hint of brewed chai tea, it perfectly complements the soft, pillowy rolls with just the right amount of sweetness.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls lies in the carefully selected ingredients that enhance both texture and flavor.

Flour – All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, creating a soft yet sturdy dough. If you prefer a slightly heartier texture, you can use half whole wheat flour.

Yeast – Instant yeast makes the rising process easier and quicker. If you’re using active dry yeast, make sure to proof it in warm milk before adding it to the dough.

Spices – The chai spice blend is what makes these cinnamon rolls unique. A mix of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg brings warmth and complexity to the filling and glaze.

Brown Sugar – This adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling. Dark brown sugar will give you a richer flavor, while light brown sugar works just as well.

Chai-Infused Milk – Instead of regular milk, we steep chai tea in warm milk to infuse the dough and glaze with even more cozy spice flavor.

How To Make These Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls

Making these chai-spiced cinnamon rolls is easier than you think! Let’s walk through it step by step.

Start by steeping a chai tea bag in warm milk for about five minutes. This step infuses the dough with deep chai flavor, setting the stage for the spice-infused rolls.

Next, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and spices in a large mixing bowl. Add the chai-infused milk, melted butter, and egg, then knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size.

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar, softened butter, and the chai spice blend. This is what gives the rolls their signature flavor.

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the filling evenly across the dough, then roll it up tightly from one end to the other. Cut the log into equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish.

Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes before baking. Then, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fluffy.

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the chai-spiced glaze. A combination of powdered sugar, brewed chai tea, and vanilla creates a silky-smooth topping that drizzles beautifully over the warm rolls.

Storage Options

If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store them for maximum freshness.

For short-term storage, keep the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to five days.

To freeze, wrap the rolls individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply warm them in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until soft.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls is their versatility! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

Dairy-Free Version – Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk and swap the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based alternative.

Nutty Twist – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch and flavor.

Extra Spicy – If you love bold spice flavors, increase the amount of cardamom and ginger in the filling for an even more pronounced chai taste.

Maple Glaze – Instead of the chai-spiced glaze, try a drizzle of maple syrup or a maple-infused icing for a different take on the sweetness.

However you make them, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting and making them your own!

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