Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, these Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls are exactly what you need. Imagine the warmth and spice of traditional cinnamon rolls infused with the sweet, tender goodness of finely shredded carrots and coconut, all wrapped in a soft, pillowy dough. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with a heavenly aroma that promises comfort and indulgence with every bite. Topping them off with luscious cream cheese frosting makes these rolls absolutely unforgettable—a perfect treat for brunch, special occasions, or just a cozy weekend morning when you want to feel truly spoiled.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze for these Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls, and each one plays a crucial role in building that perfect balance of moisture, spice, and richness. From the shredded carrots adding natural sweetness and color, to the cinnamon that brings its warm hug of flavor, these staples come together for a truly satisfying dough and filling.

• Warm milk (3/4 cup): Using about 115°F ensures the yeast activates perfectly without killing it.
• Instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Red Star Platinum yeast is reliable and gets the dough rising beautifully.
• Large eggs (2): At room temperature to blend smoothly into the dough.
• Salted butter (1/2 cup melted plus 3/4 cup almost melted and 1/3 cup softened): Butter imparts richness and tenderness to both dough and filling.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon plus 3 tablespoons): The star spice that gives these rolls their signature warmth.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough without overpowering.
• Finely shredded carrots (1 1/2 cups): Adds moistness, a lovely orange hue, and that classic carrot cake essence.
• Shredded coconut (3/4 cup): Sweetened or unsweetened both work, adding a delightful chew and tropical hint.
• Bread flour (4 1/2 cups total): Provides the necessary gluten strength for soft, elastic dough.
• Packed brown sugar (1 1/2 cups): Adds deep caramel notes to the cinnamon filling.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Warmed to pour over the risen rolls, it creates moist, tender crumb.
• Cream cheese (6 ounces softened): For that irresistibly creamy, tangy frosting.
• Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and smooths the frosting just right.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 tablespoon): Elevates the frosting with a fragrant note.
• Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): For crunch and nutty contrast when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by pouring the warm milk, heated to around 110-115°F, into your mixer bowl and sprinkling the yeast over the surface. This warm bath wakes up the yeast, triggering it to bubble and rise. Then add the eggs, melted butter, salt, cinnamon, and sugar right in, along with the shredded carrots and coconut. These wet ingredients not only combine to create a flavorful base but also ensure your rolls will be beautifully moist with a subtle sweetness.

Step 2: Incorporate the Flour and Knead the Dough

Add in 4 cups of bread flour initially and mix with the paddle attachment until just combined. Let it rest for five minutes to allow flour to absorb moisture fully. Switching to the dough hook, knead the dough on medium speed for 5-7 minutes, gradually adding the remaining flour as needed. You’re aiming for a slightly tacky yet elastic dough that’s soft but manageable—not dry or overly sticky. This step is crucial for developing the gluten, which will give your rolls their lovely, chewy structure.

Step 3: First Rise and Preparing the Filling

Transfer your dough to a well-greased large bowl and cover it tightly. Let it sit in a warm spot until nearly doubled in size, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl to make the irresistible filling. This combination will melt into the dough while it bakes, creating those melt-in-your-mouth pockets of spiced sweetness.

Step 4: Roll Out, Fill, and Shape the Rolls

Once risen, gently turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, roughly 24 by 15 inches. Spread your cinnamon filling evenly over the surface, making sure every bite will be deliciously flavorful. Then carefully roll it jelly-roll style, starting from a long edge, creating a tight spiral. Cut this log into 12 to 15 rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let them rise for another 20 minutes while your oven heats up.

Step 5: Add Heavy Cream and Bake

Warm your heavy cream until it’s just warm to the touch and gently pour it over the tops of your risen rolls. This step might seem unusual, but it keeps the rolls beautifully moist and tender during baking. Bake at 350°F for about 27-30 minutes, watching to shield with foil if they brown too quickly. The rolls are done when they have a lovely golden hue and the centers look set rather than doughy.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting and Serve

While your rolls cool slightly, whip together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and fluffy. Blend in vanilla and powdered sugar to create the smooth, lush frosting that perfectly balances the spiced rolls. Spread generously over the warm rolls, and if you like, sprinkle with chopped walnuts for added texture and nuttiness.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

While the cream cheese frosting is the star garnish, feel free to add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and visual appeal. A dusting of cinnamon or a light drizzle of honey adds a lovely finishing touch that elevates each bite.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine on their own, but pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced chai tea makes the experience even cozier. For brunch, consider serving alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy Greek yogurt to balance out the sweetness and enrich the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls at a gathering, arrange them on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment or slice and stack them in a pretty cake stand to showcase the beautiful spirals and colors. For an extra festive touch, add edible flowers or fresh carrot greens around the platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. This helps preserve the texture and flavor of both rolls and frosting, ensuring you get to enjoy them just as much the next day.

Freezing

To extend their life, freeze the rolls without frosting by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months frozen. When ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before frosting and serving.

Reheating

Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm and soft. Adding frosting after reheating keeps it fresh and creamy. Leftover rolls taste fantastic steamed or warmed just enough to revive their delightful softness.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and let them rise in the fridge overnight. This slow rise deepens the flavor and makes morning baking quick and easy.

What if I don’t have coconut? Can I skip it?

Yes, you can omit the shredded coconut if you prefer. The rolls will still be delicious, though the coconut adds a lovely texture and subtle sweetness that complements the carrot beautifully.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

Look for a golden brown color and gently pull up a center roll edge; it should look cooked through without doughiness. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven and roll size.

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

You can substitute all-purpose flour, but bread flour helps achieve a chewier and stronger dough structure for those perfect soft rolls.

Is it okay to add nuts inside the rolls?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans mixed into the filling add wonderful crunch, and a few sprinkled on top after frosting add even more texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls are truly a kitchen treasure: comforting, flavorful, and a little unexpected in the best way. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising friends and family, they bring warmth and joy to any morning or special occasion. I can’t wait for you to try making them and see how quickly they disappear—because one bite and you’ll know these rolls were made to be shared and savored.

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