Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something magical about waking up on Christmas morning to the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling the house. These Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate holiday treat—soft, fluffy, and swirled with a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling enhanced by a hint of orange or almond extract. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet breakfast, these rolls bring a cozy, festive touch to your holiday table that everyone will love.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Cinnamon rolls have a universal appeal, but these Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls take it up a notch. The dough is tender and pillowy, thanks to a perfect balance of milk, butter, and just the right amount of sugar. The filling, made with brown sugar and cinnamon, offers that classic sweet-spicy flavor everyone craves. Adding a splash of orange or almond extract adds a subtle, sophisticated twist that elevates the whole experience.

What really makes these rolls crowd-pleasers is their fresh-baked warmth and melt-in-your-mouth texture. They’re not overly sweet, which makes them perfect for pairing with morning coffee or tea without overwhelming your palate. Plus, their beautiful swirl shape and inviting scent instantly create a festive atmosphere, making them a holiday morning tradition waiting to happen.

Your Shopping Guide

• Active dry yeast: The essential leavening agent that makes the dough rise and become fluffy. Make sure it’s fresh and not expired for the best results.
• Warm water (105 to 115 degrees): Activates the yeast. Use a thermometer or test by touch to avoid killing the yeast with water that’s too hot.
• Lukewarm milk: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar for the dough and brown sugar for the filling. Brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter. It enriches the dough and is also melted for the filling.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Egg: Binds the dough and adds tenderness.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the dough. Measure carefully for the right dough consistency.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice of the filling.
• Orange or almond extract: Adds a unique, festive flavor twist. Choose your favorite.

Appliances & Accessories

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients and letting the dough rise.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key for baking success.
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional): Makes kneading easier, but hand kneading works too.
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough evenly.
• Baking pan or dish: A 9×13-inch pan works well to fit all the rolls.
• Pastry brush: To brush melted butter on the dough before adding the cinnamon-sugar filling.
• Kitchen thermometer: Helpful to ensure water and milk are at the right temperature for yeast activation.

The Method for Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup warm water and 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows the yeast is alive and ready to work.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a saucepan, warm 1/2 cup lukewarm milk with 1/3 cup butter, stirring until the butter melts. Let it cool slightly so it’s warm but not hot. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, warm milk-butter mixture, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 egg. Gradually add 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes. Otherwise, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead by hand until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon orange or almond extract. In another bowl, melt 1/4 cup butter for brushing.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches.

Step 6: Add the Filling

Brush the surface of the dough with melted butter. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 7: Form the Rolls

Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 8: Second Rise

Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 10: Serve

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. For an extra special touch, try topping them with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch—try them in a recipe like Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns for inspiration.
• Mix in dried cranberries or orange zest to brighten up the filling with festive colors and flavors.
• Drizzle a homemade vanilla or maple glaze on top to add richness and sweetness.
• Serve alongside warm spiced apple cider or a mug of hot chocolate for the ultimate holiday breakfast experience.
• For a fun twist, swap out cinnamon for a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg or cardamom.

Little Things that Matter

• Water and milk temperature: Keeping these within 105 to 115 degrees ensures your yeast activates properly without killing it.
• Don’t rush the rises: Let the dough double in size the first time and become puffy during the second rise—it’s crucial for fluffy rolls.
• Use fresh yeast: Expired yeast can lead to dense or flat rolls.
• Brush the dough with butter generously: This keeps the rolls moist and helps the cinnamon sugar stick evenly.
• Cut rolls cleanly: Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for neat slices that keep their shape while baking.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, roll it out, add the filling, slice, and allow the rolls to rise before baking. This makes Christmas morning less hectic and more enjoyable.

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave individually for 20-30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil. Use a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What if I don’t have orange or almond extract?

If you don’t have either extract, you can omit it altogether or substitute with a teaspoon of vanilla extract. The cinnamon and brown sugar filling will still be wonderfully flavorful.

Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! After shaping the rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge, let them rise until puffy, and bake as directed.

How do I make a glaze for the rolls?

A simple glaze is made by mixing powdered sugar with milk or cream (start with 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk). Drizzle over warm rolls for a sweet finish. For a richer option, add a bit of vanilla extract or cream cheese.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns – A nutty, caramel-infused twist on a classic favorite.
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• Honey Mustard Danish Pastry Twists – A savory-sweet pastry perfect for brunch or snacks.

In Closing

Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to start the holiday—warm, comforting, and irresistibly fragrant. Their soft dough and flavorful filling make them a festive staple that’s easy enough to prepare ahead but special enough to make every Christmas morning feel like a celebration. Whether you stick with the classic cinnamon and brown sugar or add your own seasonal touches, these rolls promise smiles around the breakfast table and memories that linger long after the last bite. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the magic of Christmas morning with every delicious swirl.

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