Chai Infused Cinnamon Rolls With Cardamom Cream Cheese Swirl

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, freshly baked cinnamon roll. But what if we took that classic treat and infused it with the exotic, warming spices of chai? These Chai-Infused Cinnamon Rolls with Cardamom Cream Cheese Swirl are exactly that – a delightful twist on a beloved favorite. The fragrant chai tea permeates the dough, while a luscious cardamom cream cheese filling adds a layer of complexity that will have you coming back for more. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most incredible aroma and indulge in a truly special baking experience!

Gather Your Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour (500g / 4 cups): The foundation of our rolls! All-purpose flour provides the structure needed for a soft and chewy texture. Be sure to measure accurately – spoon and level is best!
• Granulated Sugar (60g / ½ cup + 1 Tbsp): Sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps activate the yeast and contributes to the golden-brown color of the rolls. We’ll use some for the dough and a little extra for the yeast activation.
• Active Dry Yeast (7g / 2 ¼ tsp): The magic ingredient that makes our rolls rise! Active dry yeast needs to be proofed in warm liquid to ensure it’s alive and active.
• Warm Whole Milk (120ml / ½ cup): Milk provides moisture and richness to the dough. It’s crucial that the milk is warm (around 110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast, but not too hot, or it will kill it.
• Unsalted Butter, Melted (60g / ¼ cup + ¼ cup for filling): Butter adds flavor, tenderness, and richness to the dough and filling. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the recipe.
• Large Egg, Room Temperature (1): An egg adds richness, structure, and helps bind the ingredients together. Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily, resulting in a smoother dough.
• Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract (1 tsp / 5ml): A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a subtle sweetness and aroma.
• Salt (¼ tsp / 1.25ml): Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the dough.
• Strongly Brewed Chai Tea, Cooled (120ml / ½ cup): The star of the show! Using a strong brew of chai tea infuses the dough with its signature warming spices – cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Ensure it’s cooled to avoid killing the yeast.
• Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp / 4g + 1 tsp for garnish): A classic cinnamon roll spice, adding warmth and sweetness.
• Ground Cardamom (1 tsp / 2g + 1 tsp for filling): Cardamom brings a floral, slightly citrusy note that complements the chai spices beautifully.
• Ground Nutmeg (¼ tsp / 0.5g, optional): A pinch of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the dough.
• Cream Cheese, Softened (120g / ½ cup): The base of our luscious filling! Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
• Powdered Sugar (80g / ⅔ cup for filling + 100g / ¾ cup for glaze): Provides sweetness and structure to both the filling and the glaze.
• Extra-Strong Chai Concentrate (1 Tbsp / 15ml): Boosts the chai flavor in the filling, creating a more intense and aromatic experience.
• Chai Tea, Cooled (2 Tbsp / 30ml for glaze): Used in the glaze to complement the chai flavor in the rolls.
• Honey (1 tsp / 5ml for glaze): Adds a touch of natural sweetness and helps create a glossy glaze.
• Lemon Juice (½ tsp / 2.5ml for glaze): A tiny bit of acidity balances the sweetness of the glaze and brightens the flavors.
• Finely Chopped Pistachios, Lightly Toasted (2 Tbsp / 15g for garnish): Adds a delightful crunch and a beautiful green color contrast.

Substitutions

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? Here are a few simple substitutions:

• Whole Milk: You can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Chai Tea: If you don’t have pre-made chai tea, you can steep your own using chai tea bags or loose-leaf chai blend.
• Cardamom: If you’re not a fan of cardamom, you can omit it or substitute with a pinch of ground cloves.

Let’s Get Rolling: Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, gently warm the milk to around 110°F (43°C). This temperature is crucial – too hot and you’ll kill the yeast, too cold and it won’t activate. Add 1 tablespoon of the brewed chai tea and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s working when a foamy layer forms on top. This step ensures your cinnamon rolls will rise beautifully.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of cardamom, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Whisking incorporates air and evenly distributes the spices, which is key for a flavorful roll.
3. Form the Shaggy Dough: Add the melted butter, room temperature egg, vanilla extract, the activated chai-yeast mixture, and the remaining ½ cup of chai tea to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form. Don’t overmix at this stage; just bring everything together.
4. Knead to Perfection: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and knead on medium speed for 5-6 minutes. Proper kneading develops the gluten, resulting in a tender and chewy cinnamon roll.
5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1-1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size. This allows the yeast to work its magic, creating a light and airy texture.
6. Prepare the Chai-Cardamom Cream Cheese Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of cardamom, and 1 tablespoon of extra-strong chai concentrate until light and fluffy. The filling should be smooth and easily spreadable.
7. Roll and Fill: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 30 x 40 cm (12 x 16 in) rectangle. Spread the chai-cardamom cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 2 cm (¾ inch) border along one of the long edges.
8. Roll and Cut: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it securely. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces (approximately 2 cm/¾ inch thick).
9. Second Rise (Proofing): Place the cinnamon rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them proof for 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up. This second rise is essential for achieving a soft and fluffy texture.
10. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the tops are firm to the touch.
11. Make the Chai Glaze: While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, chai tea, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and slightly runny. Adjust the amount of chai tea to achieve your desired consistency.
12. Glaze and Garnish: Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Drizzle the chai glaze generously over each roll, allowing it to pool on the plate. Finish with a dusting of toasted cinnamon-sugar and a sprinkle of toasted pistachios for added flavor and visual appeal.

The Science of Chai and Cinnamon: Why This Combination Works

The magic of these Chai-Infused Cinnamon Rolls lies in the synergy between chai spices and the classic warmth of cinnamon. Chai, traditionally a blend of black tea, warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, offers a complex flavor profile that elevates the humble cinnamon roll. The cardamom in both the dough and the cream cheese filling complements the cinnamon beautifully, adding a floral and slightly citrusy note. The chai tea itself contributes moisture and depth of flavor to the dough, while the chai concentrate in the filling intensifies the aromatic experience. This isn’t just about taste; the spices also have warming properties, making these rolls perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.

Tips for the Perfect Proof

Achieving the perfect proof is crucial for light and airy cinnamon rolls. The ideal temperature for proofing is around 75-85°F (24-29°C). If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm environment by placing the baking sheet with the rolls in a slightly warmed oven (turned off!) or near a warm stove. Avoid drafts, as they can hinder the rising process. A properly proofed roll will be noticeably puffed up and feel soft to the touch.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize these Chai-Infused Cinnamon Rolls to your liking! Consider adding a handful of chopped dried cranberries or golden raisins to the filling for a touch of sweetness and chewiness. You could also drizzle melted white chocolate over the glazed rolls for an extra decadent treat. For a nuttier flavor, incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling or sprinkle them on top along with the pistachios.

Storing and Reheating

These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap a roll in plastic wrap and microwave for 10-15 seconds, or bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of tea?

While chai tea is recommended for its flavor profile, you can experiment with other strong teas like Earl Grey or black tea. However, the flavor will be different.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. This will develop even more flavor.

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked or baked cinnamon rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

A Warm Embrace in Every Bite

These Chai-Infused Cinnamon Rolls with Cardamom Cream Cheese Swirl are more than just a dessert; they’re a comforting experience. The aromatic spices, the soft and fluffy texture, and the creamy filling create a truly irresistible treat. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can enjoy these delightful rolls whenever the craving strikes! [Pinterest Save Button/Link]

Print