These Halloween Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect spooky treat for your fall festivities! Swirled with chocolate chips and drizzled with orange and white icing, these rolls are soft, sweet, and bursting with cinnamon flavor. They are a delicious way to bring the Halloween spirit to your breakfast table or dessert spread!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Icing:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Orange food coloring
- Mini chocolate chips for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt, then stir to combine. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
3. Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
4. Roll and Fill the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with mini chocolate chips.
5. Roll and Cut the Cinnamon Rolls:
Starting at the long end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the cinnamon rolls rise for another 30 minutes. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before icing.
7. Make the Icing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Divide the icing into two bowls. Add orange food coloring to one bowl and leave the other white.
8. Decorate the Cinnamon Rolls:
Drizzle the orange and white icing over the warm cinnamon rolls. Top with extra mini chocolate chips for a fun Halloween effect.
Tips for Perfect Halloween Cinnamon Rolls:
- Use room temperature butter: For the filling, ensure the butter is soft to spread easily across the dough.
- Keep your dough warm while rising: If it’s a chilly day, place the dough in the oven with just the light on to provide a cozy environment for it to rise.
- Icing consistency: If the icing is too thick, add more milk 1 teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired drizzling consistency.
FAQs About Halloween Cinnamon Rolls:
Can I prepare the cinnamon rolls in advance?
Yes, you can make the rolls the night before. After placing the cut rolls in the baking dish, cover them and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking.
How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze baked and un-iced cinnamon rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven before icing and serving.
How do I make the icing more festive?
For extra Halloween flair, you can add orange and black sprinkles on top of the icing or use purple food coloring for an additional spooky touch!
