Experience the warm, aromatic delight of Chai Spice Cinnamon Rolls with this easy recipe! Infused with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, each roll is a cozy treat perfect for any occasion. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create soft, fluffy rolls topped with a sweet glaze. Don't miss out on bringing the delicious flavors of chai into your kitchen—click through to explore the full recipe and make these irresistible rolls today!
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
½ cup whole milk, warmed
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cloves
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Filling:
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 tablespoon chai blend (tea leaves, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom mix)
Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
![- 4 cups all-purpose flour - ¼ cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon salt - 2 teaspoons ground cardamom - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground ginger - ½ teaspoon ground cloves - ½ cup whole milk, warmed - ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 large eggs - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract - ½ cup brown sugar, packed - 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon - ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 teaspoon ground cardamom - 1 tablespoon chai blend - Glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference. The dry ingredients form the base of your dough. Flour gives it structure, while sugar adds sweetness. Salt brings out the flavors. The spices, like cardamom and cinnamon, add warmth and depth. For the wet ingredients, warm milk helps activate the yeast. Melted butter makes the rolls rich and tender. Eggs enrich the dough and help it rise. The vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma. The filling and glaze are where the magic happens. Brown sugar and cinnamon create a sweet, sticky mixture. The softened butter binds it all together. The chai blend adds an extra kick, making these rolls special. The glaze is simple but effective, adding a sweet finish. To make this delightful treat, follow the [Full Recipe]. It guides you through every step, ensuring your chai cinnamon rolls come out perfect. 1. Start by mixing the yeast, warm milk, and sugar in a bowl. Stir gently. Let this sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it gets frothy. 2. In a big bowl, combine the flour, salt, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. This mix gives our rolls great flavor. 3. Now, add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture to the dry mix. Stir until it comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture. 1. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours. It should double in size. 2. Once it has risen, punch the dough down gently. Roll it out into a rectangle that is about 15 by 10 inches. 3. To make the filling, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, softened butter, cardamom, and chai blend in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. 1. From one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. 2. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. This helps create nice, even rolls. Arrange them in a greased baking dish. 3. Cover the rolls with a towel again and let them rise for another 30 to 40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 4. Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25 to 30 minutes. They should be golden brown when done. 5. While baking, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Adjust milk to reach your desired consistency. 6. Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over them for a sweet finish. Follow these steps for a delightful chai cinnamon roll experience! For the detailed recipe, check the Full Recipe section. - Choosing the right chai blend Select a chai blend that includes spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. This will boost the flavor of your rolls. You can use loose-leaf tea or tea bags, depending on your taste. - Adjusting spices for personal taste Feel free to add more cardamom or cinnamon if you love those flavors. You can also try adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. Remember, it is all about what you enjoy! - Tips for making a more fragrant dough To enhance the aroma, let your dough rise in a warm, cozy spot. Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the dough mix. The warmth will bring out the lovely scent of spices. - How to achieve perfect roll shape Roll the dough tightly when forming the log. This helps the rolls keep their shape while baking. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into even pieces for uniform cooking. - Knowing when the rolls are perfectly baked Look for a golden-brown color on top. You can also tap the bottom of a roll; it should sound hollow when done. If you have a thermometer, the inside should be about 190°F (88°C). - Presentation tips: glazing and serving suggestions Drizzle the glaze generously over warm rolls for a glossy finish. Arrange them on a large platter. Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for a beautiful touch. Serve with a cup of chai for the full experience. By following these tips, your chai cinnamon rolls will be even more delightful! You can find the full recipe above for step-by-step guidance. {{image_2}} To make vegan chai cinnamon rolls, swap key ingredients. Use plant milk like almond or oat. Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. For butter, choose coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. This keeps the rolls soft and tasty without dairy. For a gluten-free version, choose a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may also add xanthan gum for better texture. Adjust the liquid slightly as gluten-free flours absorb moisture differently. Your rolls will still rise and taste wonderful! To make your filling even better, add nuts or dried fruits. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. Dried cranberries or raisins can add sweetness. Just mix them into the filling for a delightful twist. You can also create a different glaze flavor. Instead of vanilla, try almond extract or a splash of chai tea. This small change can make a big difference in taste. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar. Your glaze will complement the rolls perfectly! For the full recipe, check the section above. To keep your chai cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This will help prevent them from drying out. If you want to freeze the rolls, let them cool completely first. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To reheat, take out a roll, unwrap it, and place it on a plate. Microwave it for about 20-30 seconds, or until warm. Chai cinnamon rolls last about two days at room temperature if stored correctly. Keep them in a cool, dry place. If you refrigerate them, they can last about a week. However, refrigeration may change their texture. When frozen, these rolls maintain their best taste for three months. After that, they may still be safe to eat but may lose flavor. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying them. How do you know when the cinnamon rolls are done? The rolls are done when they turn golden brown. You can also check the center. If a toothpick comes out clean, they are ready. Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can make the rolls ahead. Prepare the dough and filling, then shape the rolls. Cover them and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning. What are some best tea pairings with Chai Cinnamon Rolls? I recommend pairing these rolls with a strong black tea. Assam or Darjeeling tea works well. You can also try spiced chai for added warmth. Can I use instant yeast if I have active dry yeast? Yes, you can. Just use the same amount. However, you need to activate active dry yeast first. Mix it with warm milk and sugar before adding it to the dry mix. How do I fix dough that’s too sticky? If your dough is too sticky, add more flour. Do this slowly, a little at a time. Knead the dough until it feels smooth and not sticky anymore. What can I substitute for whole milk in the recipe? You can use almond milk or soy milk. Both will work well. If you want a creamier texture, try using oat milk. You now have everything you need to create delicious chai cinnamon rolls. We covered the right ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. With a simple recipe and a few twists, anyone can enjoy these rolls. Experiment with flavors and fillings to make this treat your own. Remember to store leftovers properly so you can enjoy them later. With practice, your rolls will impress everyone. Enjoy your baking journey and the delightful aromas that fill your kitchen!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cac3a074-bc7c-44a1-8314-e3810aa66c71-300x300.webp)