Pin 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 brings the warmth of the holidays straight to the breakfast table, reminding me of cozy family mornings filled with laughter and sweet aromas.
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.
Pin Gathering around this board brings smiles to my family as we share stories and enjoy the festive flavors together.
Notes
For a nutty twist, include chopped pecans in the filling. 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
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat), dairy, eggs. Peppermint candies may contain traces of nuts or soy—check packaging. Always verify all product labels if allergies are a concern.
Pin Enjoy this festive recipe that beautifully blends classic comforts with holiday cheer.
Recipe FAQ
- → How long should the dough rise for soft rolls?
Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size, and then again for 30 minutes after shaping the rolls to ensure a fluffy texture.
- → What is the best way to roll and cut the dough?
Roll the dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle, spread with softened butter and cinnamon sugar, then roll tightly from the long side before cutting into 12 equal pieces.
- → How can I customize the toppings on the platter?
Use festive additions like mini marshmallows, peppermint candies, white chocolate chips, fresh raspberries, strawberries, and sprigs of mint to enhance both appearance and flavor.
- → What temperature and time should I bake the rolls?
Bake the rolls at 350°F (175°C) for 22–25 minutes until they turn a golden brown color for the perfect bake.
- → How should the cream cheese frosting be prepared?
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then thin with milk to the desired consistency for easy spreading.