Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There is something truly magical about waking up to the sweet, comforting aroma of freshly baked Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls. This delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls combines the moistness and warm spices of carrot cake with the soft, gooey goodness of cinnamon swirls, creating a treat that’s as irresistible as it is unique. Each bite offers tender dough flecked with finely shredded carrots and shredded coconut, wrapped around a luscious cinnamon and brown sugar filling, then topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting. Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect indulgence for brunch, special occasions, or whenever you want to bring a little cozy joy to your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important to achieve the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls. Each one plays a crucial role, from the warm milk that activates the yeast to the shredded carrots adding moisture and natural sweetness.

• Warm milk (3/4 cup): Activates the yeast and provides moisture for a tender dough.
• Instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Ensures the dough rises beautifully and becomes soft and airy.
• Large eggs (2): Adds richness and helps bind the dough ingredients.
• Salted butter (1/2 cup melted + 3/4 cup for filling + 1/3 cup softened for frosting): Gives flavor and moisture; softened butter makes for creamy frosting and filling.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp in dough + 3 tbsp in filling): Spices the dough and provides that classic cinnamon roll warmth.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough with subtle crispness.
• Finely shredded carrots (1 1/2 cups): Adds moistness, color, and that signature carrot cake taste.
• Shredded coconut (3/4 cup): Offers texture and a hint of tropical sweetness.
• Bread flour (4 1/2 cups, divided): Creates the perfect structure and chewiness for the rolls.
• Brown sugar (1 1/2 cups for filling): Imparts deep caramel notes to the filling.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Poured over the risen rolls before baking for extra richness.
• Cream cheese (6 ounces softened): Essential for luscious frosting with a tangy contrast.
• Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to creamy perfection.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 tablespoon): Adds a subtle, warming aroma to the frosting.
• Chopped walnuts (optional, 1/2 cup): Adds a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor on top.

How to Make Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by pouring the warm milk into your mixer bowl, making sure it’s just the right temperature—warm enough to wake up your yeast but not hot enough to kill it. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit briefly. Then add the eggs, melted butter, salt, cinnamon, and sugar, mixing everything together. This liquid mixture forms the flavorful base of your dough while incorporating the warm spices that will infuse every bite.

Step 2: Add Carrots, Coconut, and Flour

Next, fold in the finely shredded carrots and shredded coconut. These two ingredients elevate the dough, giving it natural sweetness, moisture, and that signature carrot cake vibe. Sprinkle 4 cups of bread flour and mix until the ingredients just come together. Then let the mixture rest so the flour can soak up those delicious flavors, setting the stage for a supple dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Switch to your dough hook and knead on medium speed. Gradually add up to ½ cup more flour as needed until the dough forms a smooth, elastic ball. Don’t worry if it still feels slightly tacky or sticks to the bowl—that’s exactly what you want for soft, chewy rolls. Kneading develops the gluten structure, which is essential for that perfect dough texture.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer your dough to a greased bowl, cover it up, and find a warm spot. Let it rest and rise until almost doubled in size—usually around 30 minutes. This first rise allows the yeast to work its magic, making the dough fluffy but still dense enough to hold all the wonderful fillings.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix softened butter with brown sugar and cinnamon until fully combined. This rich, aromatic filling will melt into the crevices of your rolls, creating pockets of luscious sweetness with every bite.

Step 6: Roll Out, Fill, and Shape the Rolls

Once your dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly across the dough. Then roll it tightly jelly-roll style, making sure to keep the filling snug inside. Cut into 12 to 15 equal slices and place them snugly in a greased baking pan. This snug arrangement helps the rolls rise upward, resulting in that iconic swirl shape.

Step 7: Second Rise and Cream Pour

Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 20 minutes. Meanwhile, gently warm the heavy cream until just slightly warm to the touch. Pour the cream over the rolls before popping them into the oven; this little trick keeps the rolls moist and adds extra richness as they bake.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 27 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—if they brown too fast, tent with foil to prevent burning. The rolls are done when they look cooked through but still soft and doughy in the center. This baking step bakes in all the flavors and develops that beautiful golden crust.

Step 9: Whip Up the Frosting and Finish

While the rolls cool just slightly, whip together softened cream cheese and butter, then add vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Spread this creamy frosting generously over the warm rolls, letting it melt into the spirals. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for an irresistible finish.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

To amp up the presentation and add extra texture, try sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top of your cream cheese frosting. You can also dust the rolls lightly with cinnamon or a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for a cozy aroma. The garnish not only looks beautiful but invites guests to dig in eagerly.

Side Dishes

These rolls are a star on their own, but pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy chai latte elevates the experience wonderfully. For a balanced meal, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls make a stunning centerpiece for brunch or a holiday breakfast. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or an elegant cake stand to showcase their swirls. You can also serve individual rolls in mini cast-iron skillets for a charming, personalized touch that impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover rolls tightly and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh for up to 4 days and preserves that moist, tender crumb. When ready, simply warm to enjoy that just-baked softness again.

Freezing

Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls freeze beautifully. Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container or wrap well with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before serving.

Reheating

Warm your rolls in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or heat them in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil to avoid drying out. This brings back the gooey texture and melts the frosting slightly, just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but bread flour gives your rolls a slightly chewier texture and better rise due to its higher protein content. If using all-purpose flour, watch your dough’s consistency and adjust if needed.

How finely should I shred the carrots?

The carrots should be shredded finely to blend seamlessly into the dough. This ensures they add moisture and flavor without creating chunky bits that affect the soft texture.

Is the shredded coconut necessary?

While the shredded coconut adds a lovely chew and subtle sweetness that enhances the carrot cake flavor, you can omit it if preferred. Just know that it plays a key role in the texture here.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! After the first knead, cover the dough and refrigerate overnight. Bring it back to room temperature and proceed with rolling, filling, and baking the next day for fresh, delicious rolls.

What’s the best way to prevent the rolls from drying out?

Pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking is an excellent method to keep them moist. Additionally, covering the rolls immediately after baking with frosting and storing them in an airtight container helps retain freshness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a fresh twist on classic comfort food that brings the best of carrot cake and cinnamon rolls into one joyous bite, these Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls are your answer. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in as a special treat just for you. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the warm, cozy flavors that make these rolls an unforgettable delight.

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