Save to Pins 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 recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in our home, bringing warmth and joy to our mornings.
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 to Pins Sharing this cinnamon roll board always brings smiles and warmth to our family gatherings.
Notes
Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or sprinkle with crushed candy canes for extra holiday flair For a nutty twist include chopped pecans in the filling Serve warm for best taste and texture Pair with hot cocoa coffee or spiced chai
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Dough hook or hands for kneading Rolling pin 9x13-inch baking dish Electric mixer Spatula Serving board or platter
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 62 g Protein 6 g
Save to Pins This recipe provides a perfect blend of flavors and festive presentation sure to become a holiday staple.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I let the dough rise?
Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until it doubles in size, then a second rise of 30 minutes after shaping the rolls ensures a soft, fluffy texture.
- → What is the best way to spread the filling evenly?
Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture uniformly before rolling it up for consistent flavor in each roll.
- → Can I prepare the cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, dough can be prepared and refrigerated after the first rise. Roll and shape the rolls before the second rise, then bake fresh when ready.
- → What garnishes complement these cinnamon rolls?
Mini marshmallows, peppermint candies, white chocolate chips, fresh raspberries, strawberries, and sprigs of mint add festive color and flavors to enhance the board.
- → How do I achieve the perfect frosting consistency?
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, then milk by tablespoons until reaching a spreadable, creamy texture.