The bustling streets of Jaipur, with their vibrant colors and intoxicating aromas, inspired this delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. While exploring the local markets, I was captivated by the fragrant spices that filled the air—especially the warming notes of chai that permeated the tea stalls. This recipe marries the beloved cinnamon roll with the exotic flavors of spiced chai, giving you a warm and inviting treat that’s perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cardamom Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom

Instructions

To prepare the dough, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture, allowing it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Add the eggs and knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves in a small bowl. Set aside.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the spice mixture over the top.

Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal, and then cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them to rise. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.

For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and ground cardamom in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls.

Serve these spiced chai cinnamon rolls warm, and enjoy the fragrant fusion of flavors that takes you on a journey to the heart of India. Each bite is a comforting hug, infused with the warmth of spices and the sweetness of a delightful treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack!