Amidst the twinkling holiday lights and the aroma of fresh-baked goodies, there’s something truly magical about making Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls. These delightful rolls combine the warm, comforting taste of traditional cinnamon rolls with a festive twist that brings joy to any gathering. With quick prep and a creamy glaze, they are perfect for impressing guests or cozying up with a cup of coffee on a chilly morning. Best of all, they create a festive atmosphere that you can share with loved ones, making them the perfect holiday recipe to cherish year after year. Curious about how to bring this sweet tradition to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why are Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls special?
Festive Flavor Explosion: These rolls are a delightful blend of warm cinnamon and refreshing peppermint, making them a unique holiday treat.
Quick & Easy: With instant yeast, there’s no need for lengthy proofing, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness in no time.
Impressive Presentation: The creamy glaze and crushed peppermint on top create a stunning visual that will surely impress your family and friends.
Perfect for Gatherings: Serve them at your next holiday brunch or cozy family gathering, and watch them disappear! Pair with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful experience.
Make-Ahead Option: Prep ahead and bake when ready, ensuring convenience during this busy season. For other delicious ideas, don’t miss out on Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread and White Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Cupcakes.
Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap with bread flour for chewier rolls.
• Instant Yeast – Ensures quick rising; no proofing necessary.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids browning.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Warm Milk – Activates the yeast and contributes moisture; opt for almond milk for a non-dairy version.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; margarine works as a dairy-free alternative.
• Egg – Binds all ingredients together and enriches the dough.
For the Filling
• Brown Sugar – Imparts a deep caramel flavor that enhances the filling.
• Cocoa Powder – Adds a burst of chocolate flavor to the rolls.
• Ground Cinnamon – Introduces warmth and spice to the filling.
• Mini Chocolate Chips – Optional for extra chocolate goodness; use chopped chocolate for larger chunks.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies – Provides the signature festive flavor and delightful crunch.
For the Glaze
• Cream Cheese – Forms the creamy base of the glaze; substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a luscious finish.
• Peppermint Extract – Infuses the glaze with a refreshing mint flavor.
• Milk (for glaze) – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze to your liking.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add 1 cup of warm milk (around 110°F) along with 1/4 cup of melted butter and 1 egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for 6–8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, ensuring it’s coated lightly with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, then place it in a warm area to rise for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size, becoming soft and puffy, signaling that it’s ready for the next stage.
Step 3: Make Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture will provide a rich, chocolatey flavor that beautifully complements the peppermint in the Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 4: Roll Out Dough
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air, and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 16×10 inches, ensuring an even thickness that will allow for beautifully shaped rolls. Aim for a smooth surface to maintain the integrity of the rolls.
Step 5: Add Filling
Spread 1/4 cup of softened butter evenly across the surface of the rolled dough. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously, and add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of crushed peppermint candies on top. This will create a delightful filling that mixes warmth and holiday spirit.
Step 6: Form Rolls
Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, gently roll the dough tightly into a log shape, ensuring the filling stays intact. Pinch the seams to seal well, then slice the roll into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the slices in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between them for rising.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the prepared rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30–40 minutes. They will puff up nicely and become fluffy, ready to transform in the oven into the delightful Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls we love.
Step 8: Preheat Oven
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step will ensure that your rolls bake evenly and develop a beautiful, golden-brown crust once they are placed inside the hot oven.
Step 9: Bake
After the second rise, place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 22–25 minutes. Keep an eye on the rolls; they are done when they are golden brown and emit a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer.
Step 10: Make Glaze
While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together 4 ounces of cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar while mixing, then stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract and a splash of milk until you reach your desired glaze consistency.
Step 11: Glaze Rolls
Once the Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls have cooled slightly, take the creamy glaze and generously spread it over each roll. Finally, sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive touch that will make these rolls truly irresistible and visually appealing.
Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful rolls to suit your festive mood and flavors!
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and margarine in the dough and glaze for a delicious dairy-free version.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap mini chocolate chips with your favorite chocolate chunks for an extra chocolatey goodness.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch and flavor twist.
- Citrus Zing: Infuse the glaze with fresh orange zest for a bright, refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a warm, cozy spice that enhances the holiday charm.
- Double the Peppermint: For ultimate minty flavor, blend some crushed peppermint candies directly into the glaze for a bold taste.
- Decadent Glaze: Elevate the glaze by substituting cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer, creamier finish.
- You might also enjoy: These rolls pair beautifully with some homemade Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread for a comforting brunch or serve them alongside White Chocolate Peppermint Mousse Cupcakes for a delightful dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rolls up to the baking stage and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply follow the recipe instructions up until the second rise, then cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them into the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh-baked rolls just as delicious as the day you made them, saving precious time for your busy mornings!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls at room temperature for up to 2 hours; they’re best when warm and gooey.
Fridge: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their softness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 15–20 seconds until warmed through. Enjoy that delightful taste again!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
- Warm Milk: Ensure your milk is warm (about 110°F) but not hot, as hot milk can kill the instant yeast and hinder dough rising.
- Kneading Matters: Knead the dough thoroughly until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps achieve that fluffy texture we all crave in cinnamon rolls.
- Perfectly Fluffy Rolls: Don’t skip the rising times! Allow the dough to double and rolls to puff up; this ensures soft and airy Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls.
- Bake to Perfection: Keep a close watch while baking; rolls should be golden brown and smell heavenly. Overbaking can lead to dryness.
- Overcrowding Avoidance: Space the rolls out in the baking dish to allow for even rising and cooking. Each roll deserves its chance to shine!
What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
Delight in a cozy brunch experience by pairing these sweet rolls with complementary flavors and textures.
- Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate enhances the peppermint notes and provides a nostalgic holiday vibe.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon balances the sweetness of the rolls, creating a delicious contrast.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a burst of color and brightness, cutting through the richness with a refreshing touch.
- Spiced Chai Latte: A warm chai complements the cinnamon beautifully while introducing warm spices that harmonize with the rolls.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that melds perfectly with the rolls’ glaze.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling maple syrup over the rolls introduces a sweet depth with a delightful complexity.
- Coffee: Rich and aromatic coffee makes the perfect pairing for a warm breakfast treat, awakening the senses.
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For a festive spread, serve alongside pumpkin spice muffins, harmonizing seasonal flavors for a cheerful brunch.
Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls?
You can use all-purpose flour for these rolls, but I often recommend bread flour if you’re looking for an even chewier texture. The gluten content in bread flour helps create the desired softness, making each bite wonderfully fluffy.
How should I store leftover Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls?
Store your leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best results, they’re best enjoyed warm. If you have leftovers, I recommend heating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste.
Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the rolls cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven or microwave.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Always check the expiration date on your yeast before use, and remember, the milk should be warm but not hot. If you suspect your yeast is not working, you can activate it by mixing it in warm water with a pinch of sugar for about 10 minutes before adding it to your dough.
Can these rolls be made dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily make these Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with dairy-free margarine and using almond milk instead of regular milk. For the glaze, swap the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to keep it light yet creamy.
How long do these rolls take to prepare and bake?
Overall, you’re looking at around 2 to 2.5 hours from start to finish, which includes both rising times. You’ll spend about 25–30 minutes for active prep, and the waiting while the dough rises adds a little more time, but the end result is worth every second!
Delicious Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for 6-8 minutes.
- Transfer dough into a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Mix brown sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl to prepare filling.
- Once risen, punch down dough and roll out into a rectangle measuring approximately 16x10 inches.
- Spread softened butter on rolled dough, then sprinkle with the brown sugar mixture, chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, slice into 12 pieces, and arrange in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 30-40 minutes until fluffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 22-25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and a splash of milk.
- Once cooled slightly, spread glaze over each roll and sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies.
Leave a Reply