As the holiday season wraps us in its cozy embrace, there’s nothing quite like the blissful aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the kitchen. These Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls are my go-to indulgence for Christmas mornings, a delightful combination of comfort and celebration. Dozens of sweet memories are wrapped inside each roll, created with soft dough infused with rich eggnog and vanilla, swirled with a heavenly mix of brown sugar, warm cinnamon, and creamy white chocolate chips.
Imagine pulling apart one of these fluffy rolls, the gooey filling stretching like a warm hug. Topped with a luscious eggnog glaze, they transform even the simplest holiday breakfast into an unforgettable feast. From lazy weekend brunches to festive gatherings, these rolls are sure to delight family and friends alike. Join me in whipping up a batch that’s not just scrumptious but also a delightful nod to the season—perfect for sharing or savoring all alone!
Why Are Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls So Irresistible?
Warm, Cozy Flavor: These rolls bring the essence of Christmas into your kitchen, combining eggnog and cinnamon for a truly festive experience.
Decadent Indulgence: Each fluffy roll is packed with rich fillings, making them a luxurious treat perfect for holiday mornings.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be whipping these up in no time—ideal for novice bakers!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their delightful taste and inviting aroma are guaranteed to impress family and friends, turning any gathering into a celebration.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served at brunch or as a sweet evening snack, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Don’t miss out on adding this festive delight to your holiday baking list!
Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Essential for structure; use King Arthur for best results.
- Instant yeast – Provides leavening for a soft texture; active dry yeast can be substituted.
- Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to both dough and filling; packed for better moisture retention.
- Eggnog – Key ingredient for flavor and moisture in the dough; substitute with whole milk if eggnog is unavailable.
- Large eggs – Help bind the ingredients and enrich dough texture; use room temperature for optimal results.
- Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; essential for balancing the sweetness.
- Salted butter – Provides richness and flavor to dough and filling; ensure it’s softened for easy spreading.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds aromatic warmth to the filling; freshly ground is preferred.
For the Filling
- White chocolate chips – Add sweetness and creaminess in the filling; chop into smaller pieces for even distribution.
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – Used for the glaze, giving a smooth finish; ensure it’s sifted to avoid lumps.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor in both dough and glaze; a splash of almond extract can bring a nice twist!
These Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls come together beautifully, making your holiday baking both joyful and delicious!
How to Make Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, instant yeast, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and kosher salt. In another bowl, combine room-temperature eggnog, large eggs, softened butter, and vanilla. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
First rise: Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. Patience is key for that fluffy texture!
Prepare filling: In a small bowl, mix the remaining brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Next, chop the white chocolate chips into smaller pieces so they melt beautifully in the filling.
Shape the rolls: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the surface, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and evenly distribute the chopped white chocolate. Roll tightly from one edge to the other and slice into 12-15 equal pieces.
Second rise: Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow to rise for 20-30 minutes until they are puffy, ready to become those delightful rolls you’re dreaming about.
Preheat oven: About 10 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to have it ready for those gorgeous rolls.
Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the aroma fills your home.
Make glaze: While the rolls are baking, melt white chocolate with a splash of eggnog. Once melted, whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and creamy.
Glaze rolls: Once out of the oven, let the rolls cool for a few minutes before generously spreading or drizzling the eggnog glaze over them. Enjoy the heavenly transformation they undergo!
Optional: Sprinkle with a bit of additional ground cinnamon for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these delightful cinnamon rolls to match your preferences and dietary needs!
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor. They’ll elevate the texture beautifully.
- Dark Chocolate Swap: Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Vanilla Twist: Switch vanilla extract for almond extract in both the dough and glaze for a unique flavor that adds a lovely twist to the traditional taste.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle some nutmeg or ginger into the filling for an extra layer of warmth and holiday cheer that dances on your palate.
- Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest to the dough for a bright, zesty note that marries perfectly with the richness of the eggnog.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use almond milk instead of eggnog and substitute flax eggs for the large eggs. You can also use plant-based butter for the filling!
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour to cater to gluten-sensitive guests without compromising on flavor.
- Spicy Cinnamon Roll: For those who like it hot, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder into the filling for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness.
Each of these variations invites a new adventure in flavor, ensuring your Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls can suit any taste or dietary preference. Enjoy the delightful process of baking and savoring these scrumptious treats!
What to Serve with Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls?
Enhance your holiday morning with delicious pairings that perfectly complement these sweet rolls.
Hot Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness of the rolls, making every bite enjoyable.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon provides a savory contrast to the sweet and gooey rolls, creating a delightful flavor harmony on your breakfast table.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits lend a refreshing touch to your meal, adding color and a burst of natural sweetness that complements the richness of the eggnog rolls.
Eggnog Latte: For the ultimate indulgence, pair these rolls with a creamy eggnog latte. The warm spices in the latte echo the flavors of the rolls, creating a festive experience.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream elevates these rolls into a dessert-like treat, making them perfect for a special occasion.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the cinnamon notes in the rolls.
Spiced Tea: A cup of warm spiced tea or chai adds a comforting touch, enhancing the coziness of your holiday breakfast.
Chocolate Orange Muffins: An unexpected twist! The citrus notes play well with the cinnamon and sweetness of the rolls, creating a delightful brunch spread.
Storage Tips for Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the rolls, ensuring they are well-wrapped. They can last for up to 5 days, but might lose some softness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise or baked rolls without icing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, restoring that freshly-baked feel!
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first five steps, then cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly before preheating your oven. For even more convenience, you can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping; just pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before the final rise. This way, you’ll still enjoy fresh, gooey, and perfectly delicious rolls with minimal effort on busy mornings!
Expert Tips for Making Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature, as this helps create a smooth and cohesive dough, leading to better texture.
Kneading Technique: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Insufficient kneading results in dense rolls instead of fluffy delights.
Accurate Measuring: Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurements. Too much flour can make the rolls dry; too little can result in a dough that doesn’t rise.
Don’t Rush Rises: Allow the dough to rise fully. Rushing this step leads to dense rolls rather than the desired soft and pillowy texture.
Glazing Temperature: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before glazing them. Glazing too hot can result in a runny frosting that won’t hold its shape.
Storage Tips: Store your Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for a week. Reheating them in the oven keeps them fluffy!
Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of eggnog should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! I recommend using a rich, full-fat eggnog for these rolls, as it adds creaminess and depth to the flavor. If you can’t find eggnog, whole milk can be a suitable substitute, but the richness might be toned down.
How should I store my eggnog cinnamon rolls?
For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. They may lose some softness, but a quick reheat can revive them!
Can I freeze festive eggnog cinnamon rolls?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise or baked rolls without icing for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the unbaked rolls in a greased dish, cover with plastic wrap, and then foil. For baked rolls, allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly. To use them, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake or reheat as desired.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to the yeast being expired or the temperature being too cold. Make sure your eggnog is warm (around 110°F) and find a warm spot for the dough to rise. If the dough feels dense, knead it for a few more minutes to incorporate air.
Are these cinnamon rolls safe for pets?
Not at all! These rolls contain ingredients like butter and sugar that can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. Always keep finished baked goods out of reach from furry friends to ensure their safety.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?
Certainly! You can substitute the eggnog with a dairy-free eggnog or a mixture of almond milk and some coconut cream for a richer flavor. Use dairy-free butter and ensure that the chocolate chips are also dairy-free to keep the entire recipe plant-based. Adjust the sweeteners as needed!
Indulge in Festive Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls for Cozy Mornings
Equipment
- - Large bowl
- small bowl
- Rolling Pin
- - Baking dish
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour Use King Arthur for best results
- 2 tablespoons instant yeast Active dry yeast can be substituted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Packed for better moisture retention
- 1 cup eggnog Substitute with whole milk if eggnog is unavailable
- 2 large eggs Use room temperature for optimal results
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup salted butter Ensure it’s softened for easy spreading
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon Freshly ground is preferred
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips Chop into smaller pieces for even distribution
Glaze Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar Ensure it's sifted to avoid lumps
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A splash of almond extract can bring a nice twist!
Instructions
Dough Preparation
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, instant yeast, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and kosher salt. In another bowl, combine room-temperature eggnog, large eggs, softened butter, and vanilla. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Filling and Shaping
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Chop the white chocolate chips into smaller pieces.
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, spread softened butter, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and evenly distribute chopped white chocolate. Roll tightly and slice into 12-15 equal pieces.
Final Preparation
- Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow to rise for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) about 10 minutes before baking.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Glazing
- While the rolls are baking, melt white chocolate with a splash of eggnog, then whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once out of the oven, let the rolls cool slightly before glazing.