When I think about Christmas, my mind dances with images of twinkling lights, warm gatherings, and, of course, delightful aromas wafting from the kitchen. One treat that continually brings joy and warmth to my holiday season is the undeniably delectable Christmas Cinnamon Rolls.
These rolls aren’t just a dessert; they're an experience. Picture yourself biting into a soft, fluffy roll, the cinnamon and sugar mingling perfectly with a rich cream cheese icing. To elevate your holiday feasts, you might consider pairing these rolls with a steaming mug of spiced cider or a rich cup of hot cocoa. But, let me guide you through the delightful journey of making perfect Christmas cinnamon rolls.
The Perfect Dough
The foundation of any great cinnamon roll is the dough. This recipe utilizes an enriched dough which includes eggs, sugar, and butter. These ingredients work together to create a tender, pillowy roll that’s irresistible. The warmth of the milk activates the yeast, creating the perfect rise.
Flavorful Filling
A cinnamon roll wouldn’t be complete without its sweet filling. This recipe includes a lavish blend of spices and brown sugar, giving it a depth of flavor that traditional cinnamon rolls often lack. With a dash of orange zest, each roll offers a seasonal flair that enhances the experience.
Brown Butter Cream Cheese Icing
Forget the standard glaze! This recipe features a brown butter caramel cream cheese icing. This icing melts into the warm rolls, adding a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the experience to new heights. The combination of caramel and cream cheese is pure magic.
Easy Preparation Steps
I understand that holidays can be hectic. This recipe emphasizes simple, clear steps to take the stress out of the process. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, you’ll find joy in making these rolls.
The taste of these cinnamon rolls is a celebration all on its own. Picture the soft, warm dough enveloping a sweet, gooey filling of sugar and spice. Each bite unveils the layers of flavor, complemented beautifully by the richness of the icing. The hint of orange zest adds an unexpected brightness, making your taste buds dance in delight. Truly, every aspect harmonizes perfectly, inviting you to come back for more.
What truly distinguishes these rolls is the nuanced blend of ingredients and techniques. While some may rely solely on a standard cinnamon-sugar mixture, this recipe leaps into the festive arena by incorporating caramel and cream cheese into the icing and orange zest into the filling. This layered approach to flavor creates a unique blend that is both comforting and surprising. Not only that, but the browned butter in the icing offers a deeply satisfying twist that leaves an impression far beyond the last crumb.
Dough
Filling
Brown Butter Caramel Cream Cheese Icing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, sugar, cardamom, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast, allowing it to bloom for about 5-10 minutes. Then, add this yeast mixture along with the eggs, vanilla, and butter to the flour mixture. Gradually mix in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead the dough gently for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook if you prefer. Simply mix on low until the dough is well-combined and smooth.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
While the dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into rolls, about 1-1.5 inches wide.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, covering them again with a towel. Let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they expand.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; every oven behaves differently!
While the rolls bake, prepare the icing. In a bowl, combine the browned butter, softened cream cheese, vanilla, caramel sauce, and powdered sugar. Whip until smooth and creamy.
Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the icing generously over the warm rolls. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for that final touch.
Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your cinnamon rolls depends significantly on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality butter and cinnamon for the best results.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls until the second rise, then cover them and refrigerate overnight. Just allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully! Freeze them before icing, and simply warm them up when you're ready to enjoy.
Variations: Feel free to get creative! Add nuts, raisins, or other spices to the filling for extra flavor.
Baking Dish: Using a metal pan can cause the bottoms to bake faster. Consider using glass if you want evenly baked rolls.
One serving (1 roll with icing) contains approximately:
Remember, these values can fluctuate based on portion size and modifications.
To store these delicious treats, allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw and warm them up when you're ready to dig in!
Hot Cocoa
Nothing beats a warm, comforting mug of hot cocoa to accompany these fluffy rolls. The smooth chocolate blends beautifully with the spice of the cinnamon, making every bite a hug in a mug.
Spiced Apple Cider
A glass of warm, spiced apple cider elevates the festive spirit. The tartness of the apple and the cinnamon notes in the cider complement the sweet rolls perfectly, creating a delightful pairing that feels just right.
Fresh Fruits
Serve a platter of fresh fruits like berries, oranges, or pomegranates. The zesty and tart notes from fresh fruits contrast beautifully with the richness of the cinnamon rolls. Plus, they add a pop of color to your holiday spread!
Applesauce for Butter
If you want a lighter version, substitute half the butter for unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the rolls moist while lowering the fat content.
Almond Milk Instead of Whole Milk
For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened almond milk or any nut milk. It’ll provide similar moisture without the dairy.
Coconut Sugar for Brown Sugar
Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar in the filling. It gives a lovely caramel flavor, adding its twist to your rolls.
Vegan Cream Cheese
For a vegan version of the icing, use vegan cream cheese. This makes the entire dish dairy-free while maintaining the creamy goodness.
Baking Christmas cinnamon rolls is more than a culinary task; it’s a chance to create cherished memories. Each step draws you closer to comfort and joy. This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that encapsulates the essence of the holiday season.
The smell of cinnamon fills the air, and the warmth of these rolls will make your home feel inviting. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this festive treat that promises to be the highlight of your holiday table. Here’s to celebrating the season, one delicious roll at a time!
Christmas is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a warm feeling that embraces you when family and friends gather around. What better way to create memories and share joy than with freshly baked cinnamon rolls?
This recipe not only encapsulates the essence of Christmas but also provides a comforting nostalgia that can be felt with every bite. But what makes this particular recipe so special? Let's dive in.
Servings 12
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Glennis Annis, a registered dietitian and the creator of Hearty Food Ideas. Based in Saint Louis, Missouri, I’m passionate about sharing delicious, wholesome recipes that are easy to make and packed with comfort. Through my blog, I aim to help you create hearty meals that nourish both your body and soul, bringing joy to your kitchen and table.