Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls for Breakfast or Brunch

Imagine waking up on a crisp morning, the aroma of warm spices filling your kitchen, and the promise of a soft, sweet treat waiting just for you. Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to start your day or to enjoy a leisurely brunch with family and friends. Inspired by the warm, comforting flavors of traditional chai tea—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves—these cinnamon rolls take a classic favorite and elevate it with a rich, aromatic twist.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from cozy mornings spent sipping chai tea during chilly fall and winter months. The idea was simple: why not bring those comforting chai flavors into a breakfast treat that’s soft, fluffy, and indulgent? With each bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and buttery notes that perfectly complement a cup of steaming tea or coffee. These rolls aren’t just food—they’re an experience that transforms an ordinary morning into something extraordinary.

Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, a special holiday breakfast, or simply craving a homemade indulgence, these Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls offer a warm, inviting, and unforgettable flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F / 43°C)

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tsp salt

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Chai Spice Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground cardamom

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• ¼ tsp ground cloves

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Creamy Chai Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2-3 tbsp brewed chai tea (strong and cooled)

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and allow it to bloom for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your dough will rise perfectly, resulting in soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls.

2. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture once it’s frothy. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook until it is smooth and elastic.

3. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–2 hours or until it has doubled in size. Proper rising is key to achieving soft, airy rolls that melt in your mouth.

4. Prepare the filling: While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Add the softened butter and blend until you have a smooth, spiced paste. This filling is where the signature chai flavor truly comes to life.

5. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 16 x 12 inches in size. Spread the spiced chai filling evenly over the surface, making sure to cover all corners to maximize flavor in every bite.

6. Shape the rolls: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

7. Second rise: Cover the rolls loosely with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes in a warm, draft-free area. This second rise ensures a light and fluffy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.

8. Bake: Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning, and rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

9. Make the glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, brewed chai tea, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more chai tea if needed. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny.

10. Glaze the rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for 5–10 minutes. Drizzle generously with the chai glaze while they are still warm, allowing the glaze to soak into the soft layers for maximum flavor.

11. Serve and enjoy: Serve warm for the best experience, paired with a cup of chai tea, coffee, or milk. Each bite offers a comforting combination of soft dough, spiced filling, and sweet glaze—a perfect indulgence for breakfast or brunch.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rising time)

• Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls

Notes

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls the night before, cover them, and let them rise slowly in the refrigerator. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature before baking.

• Chai Tea Variations: For a more intense chai flavor, brew the tea extra strong or use a chai tea concentrate. You can also add a pinch of saffron or star anise for a more exotic flavor profile.

• Storage: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though texture may slightly vary.

Why Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls Are Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch

Breakfast and brunch are more than just meals—they’re moments of connection, relaxation, and indulgence. Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the ideal centerpiece for these occasions, offering a combination of sweetness, spice, and warmth that feels both comforting and festive. Their aroma alone transforms your kitchen into a welcoming, cozy haven.

These rolls are perfect for hosting a weekend brunch for friends, surprising your family with a homemade treat, or even as a special breakfast-in-bed option. Unlike plain cinnamon rolls, the chai spices add a depth of flavor that feels sophisticated while remaining approachable for all ages. Even children will enjoy the soft, sweet texture, while adults will appreciate the nuanced spiced notes reminiscent of a comforting chai latte.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Every Time

1. Measure your flour correctly: Too much flour can make rolls dense, while too little will result in sticky dough. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy or spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off.

2. Check your yeast: Always ensure your yeast is active by blooming it in warm milk. If it doesn’t foam, it may be expired or the milk temperature may be off.

3. Don’t skip the second rise: Allowing the rolls to rise a second time ensures light, fluffy layers that are tender and melt in your mouth.

4. Customize the spice mix: Feel free to adjust the spice quantities to match your preference—add more cardamom for a floral note or extra ginger for warmth.

5. Warm glaze works best: Pouring the glaze while the rolls are still slightly warm allows it to seep into the layers, enhancing flavor and moisture.

Pairing Ideas

Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and sides:

• Beverages: Classic chai tea, spiced latte, hot chocolate, or freshly brewed coffee.

• Fruits: Serve with fresh berries, sliced apples, or a citrus salad to balance the sweetness.

• Extras: Top with toasted nuts, shredded coconut, or a light drizzle of caramel for a decadent variation.

A Touch of Tradition and Comfort

There’s something inherently comforting about cinnamon rolls. They evoke memories of home, family gatherings, and festive mornings. By adding chai spices, this recipe bridges cultures, combining the cozy familiarity of Western baked goods with the aromatic richness of Indian chai. It’s a beautiful reminder that comfort can be both familiar and adventurous at the same time.

Sharing these Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls with loved ones can turn an ordinary morning into a cherished memory. Their soft texture, sweet-spicy filling, and creamy glaze make them a treat that everyone will remember and ask for again.

Final Thoughts

Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a breakfast or brunch item—they’re an experience. From the fragrant aroma as they bake to the first warm, gooey bite, these rolls bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence to any morning. They are perfect for special occasions or even a simple weekend treat.

By making these rolls from scratch, you’re not only creating a delicious treat but also celebrating the joy of homemade baked goods infused with globally inspired flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying cinnamon rolls for the first time, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and guaranteed to impress.

Treat yourself, your family, and your friends to Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls, and transform an ordinary morning into something extraordinary. With their irresistible aroma, soft layers, and perfectly spiced filling, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen repertoire.

Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls for Breakfast or Brunch

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rising time)
• Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x

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Description

These Spiced Chai Cinnamon Rolls bring the warm, comforting flavors of chai tea—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves—into a soft, fluffy cinnamon roll. Perfect for cozy mornings, weekend brunches, or special occasions, these rolls are both indulgent and aromatic. Inspired by the tradition of chai tea, each bite offers a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and buttery flavors that will make any morning extraordinary.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F / 43°C)

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tsp salt

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Chai Spice Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground cardamom

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• ¼ tsp ground cloves

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Creamy Chai Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp brewed chai tea (strong and cooled)

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

• In a small bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and allow it to bloom for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

• In a large bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, and salt. Add the yeast mixture once frothy. Gradually incorporate flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes in a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.

• Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

• Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and softened butter until smooth for the filling.

• Roll dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the spiced filling evenly over the dough.

• Roll the dough from the long edge into a tight log, pinch the seam, and cut into 12 equal rolls. Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes in a warm area. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

• Whisk powdered sugar, brewed chai tea, and vanilla extract for the glaze until smooth. Adjust thickness with more chai tea if needed.

• Drizzle glaze over warm rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

• Make ahead by preparing the rolls the night before and letting them rise in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before baking.

• Use a strong brewed chai tea or chai concentrate for a more intense flavor. Optional: add saffron or star anise for extra aroma.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently before serving.

• For gluten-free rolls, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; texture may slightly vary.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Michelle Davis