|

Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe

ByMadison
Jump to Recipe·5 from 12 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of a spiced, cozy cinnamon roll that takes your breakfast to the next level, you’re in for a treat! My Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe is absolutely fan-freaking-tastic—bursting with warm chai spices, ooey-gooey caramel, and wrapped up in a fluffy homemade dough. Trust me, once you try these, regular cinnamon rolls will feel a little boring in comparison. Stick around, because I’m about to share everything you need to make these melt-in-your-mouth rolls with a chai twist that your kitchen (and taste buds) will thank you for.

🧡

Why This Recipe Works

  • Layered Chai Spices: The blend of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves makes every bite rich and aromatic.
  • Sticky Caramel Drizzle: The chai-infused caramel sauce at the bottom melts into the dough for a delightful sweet-and-spicy surprise.
  • Soft, Fluffy Dough: Kneading and proofing just right results in rolls that are tender yet hold their shape beautifully.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting Twist: The frosting’s chai spices complement the rolls perfectly, tying all the flavors together.
Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle, chai cinnamon roll recipe, spiced cinnamon rolls, caramel cinnamon roll dessert, cozy chai breakfast - A white rectangular baking dish filled with twelve cinnamon rolls topped with a thick, creamy light brown frosting, each roll showing distinct swirls and a soft texture. On top of the cinnamon rolls, there are a few whole star anise pieces scattered. The baking dish is placed on a white marbled surface with cinnamon sticks and star anise nearby, creating a cozy and warm atmosphere. A white scalloped plate and a metal spatula are partially visible at the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe plays a role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. I love using warm whole milk and activating yeast properly to get that soft, airy crumb, while chai spices give it that unmistakably cozy scent. When shopping, fresh spices are key for the best flavor — don’t skip on quality cinnamon and cardamom!

Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle, chai cinnamon roll recipe, spiced cinnamon rolls, caramel cinnamon roll dessert, cozy chai breakfast - Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of warm whole milk, a small white ceramic bowl with a heap of all-purpose flour, two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white ceramic bowl of light brown sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of granulated white sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of softened unsalted butter, a small white ceramic bowl of heavy cream, a white ceramic dish holding two dry chai tea bags, small white ceramic bowls each with ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, ground cardamom, and ground cloves, a small white ceramic bowl of honey, a small white ceramic bowl of powdered sugar, a small white ceramic bowl with cream cheese softened block, and a small white ceramic bowl of pure vanilla extract, all ingredients fresh and natural, arranged in perfect symmetry, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p awthu7i m7354615311229779997
  • Whole Milk: Warmed gently to activate the yeast without killing it—key for fluffy dough.
  • Active Dry Yeast: The magic that makes the dough rise; bloom it to make sure it’s alive!
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure; spoon and level for accuracy.
  • Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Allspice, Nutmeg, Cardamom, Cloves): The chai blend that defines the flavor profile throughout.
  • Eggs & Butter: Bring richness and tenderness to the dough and fillings.
  • Brown Sugar & Honey: Natural sweetness with that caramel complexity.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds moisture and richness, especially in the caramel sauce and between rolls.
  • Cream Cheese: For that classic frosting texture with a chai spice twist.
📝
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how flexible this Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe can be. Personally, I’ve experimented by adding chopped nuts or swapping out spices depending on the season — but don’t be shy to make it your own! The key is to keep that chai spice essence and fluffy dough intact.

  • Nutty Crunch: Adding toasted pecans or walnuts to the filling adds a lovely crunch and earthy balance — one of my favorite spins.
  • Dairy-Free Variation: Swap butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese for frosting to accommodate dietary needs.
  • Less Sweet: If you prefer your rolls less sugary, reduce the brown sugar slightly in the filling and caramel sauce — still delicious!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe

Step 1: Bloom That Yeast to Start Perfect Dough

Warm your milk gently — aim for about 110°F, cozy but not too hot. Stir in yeast and a teaspoon of sugar, then let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy. This is your yeast waking up and ready to make those rolls rise beautifully — if it doesn’t foam, you might need new yeast!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Spice It Up

In your mixer bowl, whisk together flour, chai spices, salt, and sugar. The aromatic chai spices in the dry mix set the tone for every bite, so don’t rush this step. Trust me, fresh spices make a huge difference.

Step 3: Combine Eggs, Vanilla, Butter & Yeast Mixture

Add whisked eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract to your dry ingredients. Then pour in the bubbly yeast mixture. Switch to your dough hook and knead on medium speed for 7-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, pulls from the sides, and bounces back when pressed. This kneading time makes all the difference for that tender yet sturdy texture.

Step 4: Let It Rise in a Warm Cozy Spot

Place your dough ball in a greased bowl, cover it tightly, and find a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours. I love using my oven with the light on, creating a perfect, gentle heat. The dough should double in size — patience here means magic later!

Step 5: Make That Heavenly Chai Caramel Sauce

While dough rests, gently heat heavy cream, add chai tea bags, and steep for 10 minutes. Combine this chai-infused cream with butter, brown sugar, honey, spices, vanilla, and salt. Spread this luscious sauce evenly in a greased 9×13 inch dish—the secret layer that turns these rolls into sticky, flavorful slices of joy.

Step 6: Prep the Spiced Filling

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, chai spices, and salt until well combined. This mixture tastes like chai in every speck and transforms the rolled dough into layers of irresistible flavor.

Step 7: Roll, Fill & Slice

Roll your risen dough into a roughly 18 x 12 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the chai filling evenly across the dough, then roll it up tight starting from the edge closest to you. Trim the ends for evenness, then slice into 12 generous rolls using floss or a sharp knife. The slicing can get sticky, so floss is an underrated tool I always keep on hand!

Step 8: Proof & Bake the Rolls

Arrange rolls snugly in your caramel-coated dish and pour room-temperature heavy cream between them. Cover and let the rolls proof again in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled. Preheat your oven to 350°F during this time. Bake for around 30 minutes until golden brown and intoxicatingly fragrant.

Step 9: Whip Up the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and chai spices, mixing until smooth and creamy. This frosting is what elevates your rolls; it’s like a chai-spiced cloud that complements the caramel and dough perfectly.

Step 10: Let Cool & Drizzle with Bliss

Allow your rolls to cool for about 10 minutes—the perfect window to keep things gooey but avoid melting the frosting too much. Slather that fragrant cream cheese icing generously over the warm rolls, slice, and savor every cozy bite.

💡

Pro Tips for Making Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe

  • Perfect Yeast Activation: Always use warm, not hot, milk and wait for the yeast to foam—it’s your dough’s best friend.
  • Use Unflavored Floss for Cutting: This tiny hack keeps your sliced rolls neat without squashing the delicate dough.
  • Don’t Skip Proofing Twice: That second rise is where the rolls get their fluffiest texture, so be patient!
  • Manage Oven Heat: Preheat fully and avoid opening the door too often; consistent heat bakes even, beautifully golden rolls.

How to Serve Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe

Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle, chai cinnamon roll recipe, spiced cinnamon rolls, caramel cinnamon roll dessert, cozy chai breakfast - A close-up view of a white rectangular dish filled with four soft cinnamon rolls, each covered in thick, creamy icing with a smooth and slightly speckled texture. A woman's hand is lifting one cinnamon roll from the dish, showing the light brown swirled dough underneath the thick icing that drapes over the sides. The cinnamon rolls have a light golden brown color and soft, fluffy texture. In the background on a white marbled surface are small wooden bowls filled with star anise, cinnamon sticks, and ground cinnamon, adding warm, rustic tones to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love a quick sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon powder on top of the frosting—it elevates the look and adds a little texture contrast. Sometimes, I add a tiny drizzle of extra caramel sauce just before serving for that extra wow factor.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a simple chai latte or a cup of spiced black tea to echo the flavors. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples on the side adds a nice refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch parties, I arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board and surround them with small pots of honey, clotted cream, and chopped nuts. For cozy holiday mornings, wrapping individual rolls with a cinnamon stick tied with twine makes for a charming gift or centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store my leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them super fresh, refrigerate them but be sure to warm them gently before serving as cold rolls can be a bit dense.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! I wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the oven or microwave.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in a 300°F oven for about 10-12 minutes wrapped loosely in foil to keep them moist. If you’re in a hurry, a 20-second zap in the microwave with a damp paper towel works—just watch so they don’t get rubbery!

FAQs

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

    Yes! If you use instant yeast, you can skip the blooming step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients. However, make sure to adjust the rising times as instant yeast acts faster.

  2. Can I prepare the rolls the night before?

    Absolutely. After slicing the rolls and placing them in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and finish proofing before baking the next day for fresher results.

  3. How do I make sure the chai spices don’t overpower the cinnamon?

    This recipe balances spices carefully, but if you prefer cinnamon forward flavor, reduce the cardamom and cloves slightly. Remember, fresh ground spices pack a punch, so measure precisely!

  4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

    Cream adds richness, but you can substitute with full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half if needed — it just might slightly change the texture of the caramel sauce and filling.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, making these Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe is one of those kitchen experiences where patience and love really pay off. The way the warm spices fill your home, the gooey caramel dancing with soft dough, and that generous chai cream cheese frosting — it’s all just a hug on a plate. I’m so happy to share this cozy recipe with you because I know it’ll make your mornings or brunches extra special. Give it a try, and trust me, you’ll be baking these chai beauties again and again!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chai Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel Drizzle Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 12 reviews
  • Author: Madison
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Chai Cinnamon Rolls that combine warm chai spices with a luscious caramel sauce and creamy chai-infused cream cheese frosting. Perfectly soft and aromatic, these rolls make a comforting treat for brunch or dessert.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 1/4 cups whole milk, warmed to about 110 degrees F
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp granulated white sugar (to bloom the yeast)
  • 4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 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 granulated white sugar
  • 2 eggs, whisked
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, very softened

For the Chai Caramel Sauce

  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 2 chai tea bags
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, very softened
  • 1 cup 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 honey
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Chai Filling

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, very softened
  • 1 cup 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 heavy cream (for pouring in between the rolls)

For the Chai Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, very softened
  • 6 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup 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 cloves

Instructions

  1. Bloom the yeast: Mix active dry yeast, 1 tsp sugar, and warm whole milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top, indicating the yeast is activated.
  2. Prepare dry ingredients for dough: In a large bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, combine the all-purpose flour, chai spices (cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves), salt, and 2 tbsp sugar.
  3. Add wet ingredients to dry: Add the whisked eggs, vanilla extract, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix together to incorporate.
  4. Combine yeast mixture with dough: Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the bowl and stir until blended. Switch to the dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for 10 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl edges, forms a ball, and springs back when pressed.
  5. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a large greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or kitchen towel, then place in a warm spot to rise for 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
  6. Make chai caramel sauce: While dough rises, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming. Add chai tea bags and steep for 10 minutes. Remove from heat, discard tea bags, and allow to cool to room temperature.
  7. Mix caramel sauce ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, chai spices, honey, vanilla extract, salt, and the chai-infused cream. Stir to mix well.
  8. Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and evenly spread the chai caramel sauce mixture on the bottom.
  9. Prepare chai filling: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, chai spices, and salt until well combined.
  10. Roll out dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into an 18 x 12 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
  11. Spread chai filling: Evenly spread the chai brown sugar filling over the rolled dough using an offset spatula.
  12. Form rolls: Starting from the edge closest to you, roll the dough tightly into a log. Trim the ends to even the log.
  13. Cut rolls: Slice the log into 12 equal rolls approximately 1 1/2 inches wide using unflavored floss or a sharp knife.
  14. Arrange rolls and add cream: Place the rolls in the prepared casserole dish with the caramel sauce. Pour the room temperature heavy cream evenly between the rolls.
  15. Second rise (proofing): Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls proof in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  16. Preheat oven: About 15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  17. Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls for 30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  18. Make chai cream cheese frosting: While the rolls bake, beat the softened butter and cream cheese in a medium bowl with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy.
  19. Add remaining frosting ingredients: Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and chai spices on medium-low speed until incorporated, then increase speed and beat until fluffy.
  20. Frost and serve: Let the baked rolls cool for 10 minutes, then spread the chai cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use unflavored floss or a very sharp knife to cut the rolls for cleaner slices.
  • Ensure milk is warmed to about 110 degrees F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Proof rolls in a warm environment to ensure good rise—an oven with the light on works well.
  • Butter should be very softened for easier mixing in both dough and fillings.
  • The chai tea bags infuse the caramel sauce with deep spice flavor, but you can substitute with chai spice mix if preferred.
  • Let rolls cool slightly before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting too much.
  • You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate after the first rise; bring to room temperature before shaping and proofing again.
  • Substitute honey in the caramel sauce with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg

You Might Also Like These Recipes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star