Save A whimsical and festive breakfast platter featuring soft, homemade cinnamon rolls, creamy frostings, and a delightful array of wintry toppings—perfect for holiday mornings or special brunch gatherings.
This dish brings back cozy memories of holiday mornings spent with family around the table savoring sweet, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 cup (240 ml) warm whole milk, 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast, ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs room temperature, ⅓ cup (75 g) unsalted butter melted, 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt
- Filling: ½ cup (110 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar packed, 2½ tbsp ground cinnamon
- Cream Cheese Frosting: 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese softened, ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter softened, 1½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar, ½ tsp pure vanilla extract, 1–2 tbsp milk
- Board Garnishes: Mini marshmallows, Peppermint candies, White chocolate chips, Fresh raspberries, Sliced strawberries, Sprigs of fresh mint, Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Whisk in sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Add flour and salt, mixing until dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Knead dough for 5–7 minutes (by hand or using a dough hook) until smooth and elastic.
- Step 4:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 5:
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to a 16x12-inch rectangle.
- Step 6:
- Spread softened butter over dough. Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Step 7:
- Roll up tightly from the long side and cut into 12 equal rolls.
- Step 8:
- Arrange rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Step 9:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 10:
- While rolls bake, make the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Add milk to reach desired consistency.
- Step 11:
- Let rolls cool for 10 minutes, then spread with cream cheese frosting.
- Step 12:
- On a large board or platter, arrange cinnamon rolls. Decorate with mini marshmallows, peppermint candies, white chocolate chips, berries, mint, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive presentation.
Save Sharing these cinnamon rolls with family on chilly winter mornings creates cherished moments that last a lifetime.
Notes
Serve warm for best taste and texture. Pair with hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced chai for a comforting experience.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Dough hook or hands for kneading, Rolling pin, 9x13-inch baking dish, Electric mixer, Spatula, Serving board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat), dairy, eggs. Peppermint candies may contain traces of nuts or soy—check packaging. Always verify all product labels if allergies are a concern.
Save This North Pole Cinnamon Roll Board is the perfect festive centerpiece to brighten your holiday brunches.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a soft cinnamon roll dough?
Use warm whole milk and active dry yeast to help the dough rise properly. Knead until smooth and elastic, then allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size for the best texture.
- → What is the best way to roll and cut the dough?
Roll the dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling, then roll tightly from the long side before slicing into equal portions.
- → How should I bake the cinnamon rolls for even golden color?
Bake in a greased 9x13-inch dish at 350°F (175°C) for 22-25 minutes, checking for a golden brown top while keeping the centers soft and moist.
- → What ingredients are used in the frostings and toppings?
The frosting combines cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Toppings include mini marshmallows, peppermint candies, white chocolate chips, fresh raspberries, strawberries, mint sprigs, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
- → Can I add a holiday twist to these cinnamon rolls?
Yes, try adding crushed candy canes or a drizzle of caramel sauce after frosting. For a nutty variation, incorporate chopped pecans into the cinnamon sugar filling.