Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls

The aroma of Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls wafting through the house is one of those experiences that makes holiday mornings extra special. Growing up, I vividly remember racing down the stairs with my siblings, excitement bubbling inside us. The first thing that hit us was the sweet scent swirling around the room, a promise of warmth, family, and togetherness. Little did I know then that this simple treat would become a cherished family tradition.

Every Christmas morning, we gathered around the kitchen table, eagerly pulling apart those soft, fluffy rolls, drizzling icing over them while warm. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it brings an effortless holiday cheer to our home. Not only are these cinnamon rolls absolutely delicious, but they’re also simple to make, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

This Christmas, I invite you to embrace this recipe not just as a way to indulge your taste buds but as a means to create lasting memories with your loved ones. With their gooey center and perfectly spiced flavor, your whole family will be looking forward to waking up on Christmas morning!

Recipe Metadata

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Chill Time: None

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

For the Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy.

2. In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt together. Create a well in the center and add melted butter and eggs.

3. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a rough dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

6. While the dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to form a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

8. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

9. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the filling.

10. Starting from one side, carefully roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.

Step 5: Cut and Bake

11. Slice the roll into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

12. Cover with a clean cloth and let rise again for 30 minutes.

13. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

14. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

15. In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.

Step 7: Ice and Serve

16. Once the cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the top.

17. Serve warm and enjoy the flavors reminiscent of holiday magic!

Pro Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling, roll, and cut the rolls the night before! Cover them tightly in the fridge and bake them fresh in the morning for a hassle-free Christmas breakfast.

• Perfectly Soft Rolls: Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature, and let your rolls rise in a warm place to get that light and fluffy texture.

• No Nuts? No Worries: If you prefer a nut-free option, simply leave them out or substitute with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a festive touch.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Delight: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet twist that kids and adults will adore!

• Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls: Mix pumpkin purée into the dough for a seasonal variation that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or hot cocoa.

• Glaze Instead of Frosting: If you’re looking for a lighter option, a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk can add a touch of sweetness without the cream cheese.

The beauty of these Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls is that they shine no matter the occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a festive gathering with friends, these rolls are guaranteed to light up the mood.

FAQs

How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store uns frosted cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them tightly wrapped.

Can I make the dough the night before?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and place them in the fridge overnight. Let them rise for about 30 minutes at room temperature before baking.

My cinnamon rolls didn’t rise; what went wrong?

This could be due to expired yeast, water that was too hot (it should be around 110°F), or not letting them rise long enough. Always check your yeast freshness!

What can I substitute for the cream cheese frosting?

If cream cheese isn’t your thing, you can whip up a simple powdered sugar glaze using powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract.

Are there any dietary modifications I can make?

For a dairy-free option, substitute non-dairy milk and vegan butter, and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.

Conclusion

This Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience brimming with nostalgia and warmth. It’s a chance for you and your loved ones to bond over a shared tradition filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, the delightful taste of sweet cinnamon.

So gather your loved ones, embrace the holiday spirit, and spend your Christmas morning savoring these indulgent treats. Your family will thank you, and you might just create a new holiday tradition in your home! Try making this delightful recipe, and transform your mornings into something truly magical this season.

If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to share your experience and memories. Let’s spread the joy of these cinnamon rolls far and wide this Christmas!