Save to Pinterest 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 has become a holiday staple in our family, creating memorable brunches full of warmth and joy.
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 Pinterest Sharing this cinnamon roll board has created joyful family brunch moments filled with laughter and good food.
Notes
Serve warm for best taste and texture. Pair with hot cocoa coffee or spiced chai to complete your holiday experience.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Dough hook or hands for kneading, Rolling pin, 9x13-inch baking dish, Electric mixer, Spatula, Serving board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat), dairy, eggs. Peppermint candies may contain traces of nuts or soy—check packaging. Always verify product labels for allergies.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this festive recipe that brings warmth and joy to your holiday table every year.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How long should the dough rise?
The dough needs about 1 hour for the first rise until doubled, plus a 30-minute second rise after shaping to ensure softness.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and let it rise again before shaping to save time.
- → What alternatives can I use for the filling?
Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon and sugar mixture adds a pleasant crunch and depth of flavor.
- → How do I make the cream cheese frosting smoother?
Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened before beating, and add milk gradually to reach a creamy consistency.
- → What are suitable drink pairings?
This cinnamon roll board pairs wonderfully with hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced chai to enhance the festive flavors.