If you’ve ever wished for a holiday treat that feels like a warm hug in pastry form, then this Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will instantly become your new favorite. Soft, pillowy rolls infused with the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog and a dash of festive spices swirl together in every bite. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that carries hints of nutmeg and optional rum extract, these rolls are perfect for cozy mornings, festive brunches, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something incredibly special. Trust me, once you experience this delicious twist on a classic cinnamon roll, you won’t want to make them any other way!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might sound simple, but each one plays an important role in crafting the perfect soft texture, deep flavors, and that irresistible holiday aroma. From the all-purpose flour that forms the dough’s structure, to the warming spices that give these rolls their signature cozy flavor, every component is essential.
- All-purpose flour (5 cups): The foundation for soft yet sturdy rolls that hold their shape beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (4 tablespoons): Adds just enough sweetness to balance the spices and eggnog.
- Baking powder (3 teaspoons): Helps give the dough a gentle rise for a light texture.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works with the eggnog’s acidity to tenderize the dough.
- Table salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Eggnog (2 cups): The star ingredient that infuses the rolls with creamy holiday flavor and moisture.
- Butter, melted (14 tablespoons total): Splitting between dough and brushing, it keeps rolls rich and soft.
- Light brown sugar (1 ½ cups, packed): For the filling, adding moisture and that deep molasses flavor.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Mixed in the filling to give a nice, sweet crunch.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The classic warm spice that defines cinnamon rolls.
- Ground nutmeg (2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle, festive warmth to the filling and frosting.
- Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons): To brush on the dough before the filling, making the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly.
- Optional twist (½ cup chopped pecans or white chocolate chips): For extra texture and a fun surprise inside the rolls.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): The base of the frosting, bringing tang and creaminess.
- Eggnog (2 tablespoons): In the frosting, tying the flavor profile together beautifully.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to luscious perfection.
- Ground nutmeg (1 teaspoon): Gives the frosting a festive, spicy kick.
- Optional twist (a splash of rum extract or vanilla): Adds a hint of extra depth and holiday flair in the frosting.
How to Make Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining your dry ingredients — the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt — in a large bowl. Next, pour in the creamy eggnog and 12 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix everything together until a soft, pliable dough forms. Don’t be shy with a gentle knead on a floured surface to bring the dough together nicely before rolling it out into a large rectangle. This creates the perfect canvas for the filling to shine.
Step 2: Mix and Spread the Filling
In a small bowl, stir together the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for that unforgettable filling flavor. Brush the dough generously with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter — this helps the sugar mixture stick and creates that delicious gooey layer. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle chopped pecans or white chocolate chips to give your rolls an irresistible crunch or sweet twist.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, creating a snug tube packed with cinnamon sugar goodness. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 18 even pieces. Don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfectly smooth; these rustic shapes only add to the homemade charm. Arrange the slices snugly into two greased baking dishes, so they rise up beautifully during baking.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Pop your pans into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them — the rolls should turn lightly golden on top and start bubbling with their sweet filling. The aroma at this point is pure holiday magic.
Step 5: Whip Up the Frosting
While your rolls bake, use a mixer to beat softened cream cheese with eggnog, powdered sugar, and nutmeg until the frosting is smooth and creamy. For an extra holiday note, add a splash of rum extract or vanilla. This frosting has just the right amount of tang and sweetness to complement the rich rolls perfectly.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Once the cinnamon rolls come out of the oven warm, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. This step is what makes the Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe truly irresistible — the frosting melts slightly into the warm rolls, creating a sticky, spiced, dreamy delight. Serve them immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle a dash of ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top of the frosting. You can also add a few extra chopped pecans or a light drizzle of white chocolate to amp up the presentation and flavor. These simple garnishes not only look inviting but heighten the sensory experience before the first bite.
Side Dishes
Though the rolls are a meal all on their own, pairing them with a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or even hot chocolate takes your indulgence to the next level. Fresh fruit like sliced oranges or berries offers a bright contrast to the rich sweetness. For a holiday brunch spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to balance sweet and savory elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe on a festive platter lined with parchment paper and sprinkle edible gold glitter or holiday-themed sprinkles to create a celebratory vibe. Stacked in a tiered cake stand, these rolls become a centerpiece perfect for sharing with family and friends. You can also serve them individually wrapped for grab-and-go treats during the busy holiday season.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover eggnog cinnamon rolls should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness. Keeping them covered prevents drying out but if your kitchen is warm, refrigeration can help preserve them a bit longer, though you may want to reheat gently to restore softness.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe ahead of time, you can freeze the rolls before baking or after they have been baked and frosted. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen rolls keep best for up to 3 months, letting you enjoy the festive flavors whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To enjoy your rolls at their best after refrigeration or freezing, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds. This will refresh the softness and revive that freshly baked feeling—a little tip for the ultimate comfort food moment.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog?
While you can swap in regular milk, the unique creamy sweetness and spices in eggnog are what make this recipe special. Using regular milk will result in softer rolls but with less of that signature holiday flavor.
Is it possible to make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you’ll need to use plant-based substitutes for eggnog, butter, and cream cheese. Keep in mind that homemade or store-bought vegan eggnog varies, so the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and roll it out, then cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld, and you can roll, fill, and bake fresh the next morning for a quick, impressive breakfast.
What if I don’t have rum extract for the frosting?
Don’t worry if you’re missing rum extract. Vanilla extract is a wonderful substitute that pairs beautifully with the spices and keeps the frosting flavorful and rich.
How do I prevent my rolls from drying out?
Brushing melted butter on the dough before adding the filling and covering the rolls while baking helps lock in moisture. Also, be sure to store leftover rolls in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably joyful about the aroma of freshly baked eggnog cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen—the perfect invitation to gather loved ones and share sweet moments. This Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe blends beloved holiday flavors into a soft, tender roll that’s utterly comforting and delicious. I encourage you to give it a try for your next special occasion or whenever you need a cozy, festive pick-me-up. Once you do, these rolls will surely become a cherished tradition in your home.
Print
Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 18 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls offer a festive twist on a classic favorite, combining the rich flavors of eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg in soft, fluffy rolls topped with a creamy spiced frosting. Perfect for holiday breakfasts or cozy gatherings, they balance sweet and spicy notes beautifully, with optional additions like pecans or white chocolate chips for extra texture and indulgence.
Ingredients
Dough
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 2 cups eggnog
- 14 tablespoons butter, melted (divided)
Filling
- 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or white chocolate chips
Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons eggnog
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Optional: A splash of rum extract or vanilla
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and table salt. Add the eggnog and 12 tablespoons of melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead briefly to bring it together. Then roll out the dough into a large rectangle.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Brush the rolled-out dough evenly with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the surface. Add chopped pecans or white chocolate chips if using, for added texture and flavor.
- Form the rolls: Starting at the long edge of the dough rectangle, roll it tightly into a log shape. Slice the log evenly into 18 cinnamon rolls. Place the rolls cut side up into two greased baking dishes, arranging them evenly.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 16 to 18 minutes, or until they become lightly golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Make the frosting: While the cinnamon rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese, eggnog, powdered sugar, and ground nutmeg until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of rum extract or vanilla for extra flavor if desired.
- Frost and serve: Once the cinnamon rolls are baked and still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve immediately to enjoy the rolls at their softest and most flavorful.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of pecans for a sweeter variation.
- To make the rolls ahead, prepare, slice, and place them in the baking dishes, cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
- The rum extract adds a subtle boozy note but can be left out for a kid-friendly option.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
