Nothing says cozy indulgence like a batch of homemade chai cinnamon rolls. These rolls are soft, pillowy, and filled with a rich chai-spiced brown sugar filling that perfectly balances warmth and sweetness. But the real magic? A sticky, buttery chai caramel sauce that coats the bottom of each roll, making every bite an irresistible experience. Finished with a velvety cream cheese frosting infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, these rolls bring all the best fall flavors together in one delicious treat.
Perfect for crisp autumn mornings or a comforting weekend bake, these chai cinnamon rolls are an instant classic. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or a cozy chai latte, their fragrant spice blend and gooey texture make them impossible to resist. From the first whiff of cinnamon in the oven to the last melt-in-your-mouth bite, this recipe is guaranteed to be a favorite for all cinnamon roll lovers!
Full Recipe:
For the Dough:
- 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed (110°F)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (to bloom the yeast)
- 4 3/4 cups (593 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, softened
For the Chai Caramel Sauce:
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) heavy cream
- 2 chai tea bags
- 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 3/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/3 cup (116 g) honey
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Chai Filling:
- 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream (for pouring between rolls)
For the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 6 tbsp (84 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup (97 g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- Pinch of ground cloves
Directions:
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Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
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In a stand mixer, combine flour, chai spices, salt, and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, and softened butter.
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Pour in the yeast mixture and knead for 7-10 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl.
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Form the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
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Make the Chai Caramel Sauce: Heat the heavy cream and steep chai tea bags for 10 minutes.
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In a bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, spices, honey, vanilla, and salt. Stir in the cooled chai cream.
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Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Prepare the Filling: Mix butter, brown sugar, spices, and salt until smooth.
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Assemble the Rolls: Roll out the dough to an 18×12-inch rectangle. Spread the chai filling evenly over it.
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Roll the dough into a tight log and slice into 12 even rolls using unflavored floss or a sharp knife.
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Place the rolls over the chai caramel sauce in the baking dish. Pour heavy cream between them.
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Cover and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Bake & Frost: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 29-32 minutes, until golden brown.
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While baking, make the frosting by beating butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and chai spices.
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Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes, then spread the frosting over them while warm.
Prep Time: 1 hour | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Proofing Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours
Calories: 420 kcal per roll | Servings: 12 rolls
Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls: A Cozy, Indulgent Treat for Fall
Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fusion of warm, comforting spices and soft, pillowy pastry. These rolls take the classic cinnamon roll to a whole new level, infusing it with the bold, aromatic flavors of chai. If you’re looking for a cozy, homemade treat that fills your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and nutmeg, this recipe is an absolute must-try.
Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, these chai-spiced versions are layered with a rich, spiced brown sugar filling and drenched in a sticky chai caramel sauce at the bottom, making every bite incredibly moist and flavorful. And let’s not forget the creamy chai-infused frosting that perfectly balances the deep, earthy flavors with a smooth and luscious texture.
Why You’ll Love These Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls
Chai cinnamon rolls are the perfect combination of sweet and spice, making them ideal for fall and winter baking. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Rich Chai Flavor in Every Bite – Chai spices are infused into the dough, filling, caramel sauce, and frosting, ensuring that every bite is packed with warmth and depth.
- Soft, Pillowy Texture – The dough is enriched with butter and warm milk, making the rolls exceptionally soft and tender.
- Decadent Chai Caramel Sauce – A sticky, buttery caramel sauce at the bottom of the baking dish coats the rolls as they bake, adding extra richness.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a comforting afternoon treat, these rolls are always a hit.
What Makes Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls Unique?
The main difference between these chai cinnamon rolls and regular cinnamon rolls is the spice profile. While traditional cinnamon rolls rely on cinnamon as the dominant spice, chai incorporates a blend of spices, including cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. This combination creates a deeper, more complex flavor that feels extra cozy and inviting.
Another standout feature is the chai caramel sauce. Unlike a standard cinnamon roll that relies on just butter and sugar for richness, this recipe adds a sticky caramel layer at the bottom, infused with chai-steeped heavy cream. This creates a decadent, gooey texture that coats each roll beautifully.
Finally, the frosting is not just a simple cream cheese glaze—it’s infused with chai spices, adding an extra layer of warmth and aroma to complement the rolls.
The Secret to the Perfect Soft and Fluffy Rolls
One of the key factors in making these rolls incredibly soft and fluffy is using a properly proofed dough. The yeast needs time to work its magic, allowing the dough to rise and develop its airy structure. The addition of warm milk, eggs, and butter helps create a dough that is not only rich but also soft and tender.
Another tip for achieving the perfect texture is ensuring you knead the dough long enough to develop gluten, which gives the rolls structure while keeping them light. Additionally, allowing the dough to proof in a warm, draft-free environment will help it rise properly.
The Magic of Chai Spices in Baking
Chai spices are the heart of this recipe. This spice blend is traditionally used in chai tea, but it works beautifully in baked goods as well. Here’s a breakdown of the spices used and what they contribute to the recipe:
- Cinnamon – The backbone of the spice blend, providing warmth and sweetness.
- Cardamom – Adds a slightly citrusy, floral note that makes the rolls taste extra aromatic.
- Ginger – Brings a subtle heat that enhances the other spices.
- Nutmeg – Lends a mild, nutty warmth to balance the flavors.
- Allspice – A blend of clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon flavors in one, adding depth.
- Cloves – A small amount provides a strong, slightly sweet and peppery kick.
The combination of these spices creates a well-rounded, complex flavor that is both cozy and indulgent.
Pairing Chai Cinnamon Rolls with the Perfect Beverage
Since these rolls are infused with chai spices, they naturally pair well with warm beverages. Here are a few drink options that will complement their flavors perfectly:
- Chai Latte – A creamy, spiced chai latte enhances the flavors of the rolls and makes for a perfectly cozy treat.
- Coffee – The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the rolls, making it a great pairing.
- Hot Chocolate – If you’re looking for extra indulgence, a rich hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with the warm spices.
- Milk or Almond Milk – A simple glass of milk, whether dairy or non-dairy, helps balance the richness of the rolls.
How to Store and Reheat Chai Cinnamon Rolls
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they disappear fast!), here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain their fresh, soft texture:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days, but warm them up before serving to restore softness.
- Freezer: You can freeze the rolls (before frosting) for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
For the best experience, reheat them in the microwave for about 20 seconds to bring back the gooey texture of the caramel and the softness of the dough.
Variations & Customization Ideas
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be customized to your preferences. Here are a few variations you might want to try:
- Nutty Chai Rolls – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Chai Rolls – Mix a bit of cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolatey twist.
- Pumpkin Chai Rolls – Substitute some of the butter in the dough with pumpkin puree for an extra autumnal flavor.
- Extra Caramelized Rolls – Drizzle more chai caramel sauce on top after baking for extra stickiness.
- Vegan Chai Cinnamon Rolls – Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Bake
Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a baked good; they are an experience. From the moment the dough starts rising to the smell of warm spices filling your kitchen, these rolls bring warmth and comfort in every step. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a holiday breakfast, or just a weekend treat, they are guaranteed to impress.
Their perfectly soft, gooey, and spiced flavor profile makes them a must-bake for chai lovers and cinnamon roll enthusiasts alike. So, grab your mixing bowl, brew a cup of chai, and indulge in these irresistible chai-spiced cinnamon rolls.
Nothing beats the feeling of biting into a freshly baked, warm, and sticky roll, loaded with chai spice goodness and topped with creamy frosting. If you’re looking for a recipe that captures the essence of fall and winter coziness, this is it!