These Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls are irresistibly soft and fluffy, filled with buttery brown sugar and warm chai spices, and topped with a luscious cream cheese icing. Perfect for cozy mornings and special holidays—with an overnight option so you can wake up to bakery-style rolls, fresh from the oven.

Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cozy chai spice adds a unique twist to classic cinnamon rolls
Soft, fluffy dough with a gooey, flavorful filling
Creamy cardamom-kissed icing
Overnight prep option for convenience
Perfect for brunches, holidays, or weekend treats

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dough:

1 cup unsweetened cashew milk
1 packet instant yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled (plus more for greasing)
1 large egg
3½–4 cups bread flour, plus more for rolling
1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling:

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 tablespoon chai spice

Icing:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
Pinch of cardamom
1 tablespoon unsweetened cashew milk

directions

Warm cashew milk in the microwave (20–30 seconds) until lukewarm (110ºF). Stir in yeast and sugar and let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Whisk in melted butter and egg. Add flour 1/2 cup at a time, stirring gently. Add salt after the first cup. Dough should be soft, not sticky. Knead on floured surface with a bit more flour if needed.
Grease a bowl, place dough inside, and cover. Let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 45 minutes).
Roll dough into a 15×9-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar, cinnamon, and chai spice.
Roll tightly from the long side and trim the ends. Slice into 12 rolls using floss or a serrated knife. Place in greased 9×13-inch pan. Let rise for 15 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, then cover with foil and bake an additional 5 minutes if needed.
While baking, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add vanilla, powdered sugar, cardamom, and milk. Mix until smooth.
Let rolls cool slightly, then spread icing generously over the top. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Calories: 320 kcal per roll

Variations

Swap cashew milk with oat, almond, or dairy milk
Add finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling
Use maple extract in the icing for a seasonal twist
Add a splash of espresso to the filling for a chai latte flavor
Make them mini by slicing into 18 smaller rolls and reducing bake time

storage/reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300ºF oven for 10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze un-iced rolls, thaw, and warm before icing.

FAQs

Can I prepare these the night before?

Yes, prepare and slice the rolls, place them in the pan, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

What is chai spice made of?

Typically a blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and sometimes nutmeg or allspice.

Can I use regular milk instead of cashew milk?

Yes, any milk will work, including dairy and other plant-based options.

Can I freeze the baked cinnamon rolls?

Yes, freeze them without icing and add it after thawing and reheating.

What flour is best for this recipe?

Bread flour yields fluffier rolls, but all-purpose flour works in a pinch.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

It should double in size and not spring back when lightly pressed.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the icing?

You can use a butter-based icing or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Do I need a stand mixer for this recipe?

No, you can mix and knead the dough by hand.

Can I add raisins or dried fruit?

Yes, add them to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

How long should I let the rolls cool before icing?

Allow 5–10 minutes so the icing doesn’t completely melt off.

Conclusion

Chai Spiced Cinnamon Rolls combine the comfort of traditional cinnamon rolls with the aromatic richness of chai spices and a creamy, flavorful icing. Perfect for special mornings, cozy afternoons, or festive brunch tables, these rolls bring bakery-style indulgence to your own kitchen.

Emma