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 board has become my go-to for holiday mornings where everyone can customize their own cinnamon roll experience.
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 has created warm family memories and joyful celebrations every holiday season.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced chai for a comforting holiday treat.
Storage
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Variations
Try adding chopped nuts or substituting cream cheese frosting with maple glaze for a different flavor profile.
Pin This festive board is guaranteed to bring joy and deliciousness to your holiday morning table.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve soft cinnamon rolls?
Allow the dough to rise twice, knead it well until elastic, and avoid over-baking to keep rolls tender and fluffy.
- → What is the best way to apply cream cheese frosting?
Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes after baking, then spread the frosting evenly to ensure a smooth, creamy finish that doesn’t melt away.
- → Can I customize the garnish toppings?
Yes, feel free to add nuts, extra berries, or drizzle caramel sauce to enhance flavor and festive appeal.
- → What milk temperature is best for activating yeast?
Use warm milk around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it, ensuring proper dough rising.
- → How should I store leftover rolls?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate to maintain moisture and freshness.