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Chai Cinnamon Rolls

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Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a warm, spiced twist on the classic cinnamon roll, infused with cozy chai flavors like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Soft, fluffy, and topped with a chai-spiced cream cheese icing, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting treat with coffee or tea!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

For the Filling:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

For the Chai-Spiced Icing:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 12 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:

    • In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
    • Stir in egg, egg yolk, and melted butter.
    • Add flour, salt, and chai spices, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
  • Make the Filling:

    • Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and chai spices in a bowl.
  • Assemble the Rolls:

    • Roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
    • Spread filling evenly, then roll into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
    • Place in a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
  • Bake the Rolls:

    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Bake for 22-25 minutes, until golden brown.
  • Make the Icing:

    • Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom, and milk until smooth.
    • Spread over warm rolls and enjoy!

Notes

  • Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the icing for a Maple Chai Icing.
  • Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling for added crunch.
  • Use dairy-free butter, milk, and cream cheese for a vegan version.