Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls: A Festive Holiday Treat

When the holidays arrive, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls take this classic favorite to the next level, combining the cozy flavors of chocolate and cinnamon with a refreshing peppermint twist. Topped with a creamy peppermint glaze and festive crushed peppermint bark, these rolls are both visually stunning and decadently delicious.

Soft, fluffy, and rich with flavor, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for holiday breakfasts, brunches, or dessert tables. They bring together the best aspects of traditional cinnamon rolls—soft dough, sweet chocolate filling, and spiced cinnamon—with the added magic of peppermint candy for a truly seasonal experience.

Ingredients

This recipe makes 12 peppermint-infused cinnamon rolls.

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 100°F/38°C)
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (80 g) mini chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup (40 g) crushed peppermint candies

For the Glaze:

• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (30 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• 2–3 tbsp (30–45 ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (60 g) crushed peppermint bark

Preparation Method

Follow these steps for perfect, festive cinnamon rolls.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix until evenly combined.
2. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough 6–8 minutes by hand or with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll the risen dough into a 16×10-inch rectangle.
3. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the sugar-cocoa mixture, mini chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies evenly over the butter.

Step 3: Shape and Rise the Rolls

1. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
2. Slice into 12 equal rolls and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes until the rolls are puffy.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk, adjusting milk for desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish the Rolls

1. Spread glaze over warm rolls.
2. Sprinkle crushed peppermint bark on top.
3. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

• Ensure the milk is warm but not hot before adding to the dough; hot milk can kill the yeast.
• Adjust the peppermint extract in the glaze to your taste; a little goes a long way.
• For best results, prepare the rolls ahead of time and bake fresh in the morning.
• Use freshly crushed peppermint candies for better texture and stronger flavor.
• Try adding white chocolate chips along with the chocolate chips for a more festive twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the rolls, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for a warm, bakery-style treat.

2. Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes. Freeze unbaked rolls in a sealed container or wrapped tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

3. Can I substitute the peppermint candies?
You can substitute crushed candy canes or leave them out entirely if preferred. You can also mix white and dark chocolate chips for extra flavor.

4. Can I bake these rolls instead of frying?
These cinnamon rolls are already baked; no frying is necessary. For a softer finish, cover the rolls with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking.

5. What type of chocolate works best?
Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate mini chips. For a festive touch, white chocolate chips also work well with peppermint.

Serving Suggestions

Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are a festive, indulgent treat that combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the refreshing taste of peppermint and chocolate. Perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends.

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