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Delicious chai spiced cinnamon rolls with icing on a plate

Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful fusion of aromatic spices and soft, fluffy dough, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 26 minutes
Total Time 56 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American, Baked Goods
Servings 12 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 cup 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, warmed to 105-110°F Yields a creamy base
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast Ensures the rolls rise perfectly
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, divided Provides sweetness
  • 4 cups 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour, plus more as needed For a tender and rich dough
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon fine salt Balances flavors
  • 1 large 1 large egg, room temperature Contributes to fluffy result
  • 6 tablespoons 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, softened Infuses richness
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances aroma

Filling Ingredients

  • 6 tablespoons 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, very soft For a gooey filling
  • 3/4 cup 3/4 cup (165 g) packed light brown sugar Supplies deep caramel notes
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom Brings exotic warmth
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon ground ginger Adds subtle zing
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves Contributes flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg Contributes flavor
  • 1/8 teaspoon 1/8 teaspoon finely ground black pepper Provides unexpected twist

Icing Ingredients

  • 4 oz 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened For rich frosting
  • 3 tablespoons 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter, softened Enriches the icing
  • 1 cup 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar For sweetness and creaminess
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For aroma
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Ensures flavors are prominent
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom Enhances flavors
  • 1-2 tablespoons 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) milk, as needed To achieve desired consistency

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Stir the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer. Allow it to stand for approximately 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • Add in the flour, salt, remaining sugar, egg, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Attach the dough hook and knead for about 7-9 minutes.
  • Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled.
  • Prepare the filling by stirring the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper until you achieve a thick paste.

Assembling and Baking

  • Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and roll it into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
  • Roll it tightly from the long side and cut the dough into 12 even pieces.
  • Place the cut rolls in a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for an additional 35-50 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 24-28 minutes, or until tops are lightly golden and the centers are set.

Icing

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom, and just enough milk to create a spreadable icing.
  • Generously spread the icing over the warm rolls.

Notes

Use a thermometer to verify milk temperature. Be patient with dough rising for the best results. Customize the filling spices to suit your palate.
Keyword Baking, Chai Cinnamon Rolls, Cinnamon Rolls, Comfort Food, Spiced Rolls