Go Back
Christmas Cinnamon Rolls

Christmas Cinnamon Rolls - Hearty Food Ideas

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.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
  • 6 tablespoons softened salted butter
  • 1 cup warmed whole milk
  • 4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
Filling
  • 6 tablespoons softened salted butter
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup cane sugar
Brown Butter Caramel Cream Cheese Icing
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2–2 1/2 cups sifted powdered sugar
  • 1/4–1/3 cup thick caramel sauce
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 tablespoons browned salted butter, cooled slightly
  • A sprinkle of flaky sea salt, for finishing

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  1. 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.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
  1. 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.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
  1. 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.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
  1. While the dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
  1. 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.
Step 6: Spread the Filling
  1. Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 7: Roll and Cut
  1. 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.
Step 8: Second Rise
  1. 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.
Step 9: Baking the Rolls
  1. 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!
Step 10: Make the Icing
  1. 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.
Step 11: Glaze It Up!
  1. 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.

Notes

  • 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.