Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of holiday spirit and delightful indulgence. This recipe features an ultra-soft texture thanks to instant potato flakes, making each roll irresistibly fluffy. Cream is poured over these rolls for a gooey finish, and they are topped with a thick cream cheese icing that will leave you craving more. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy mornings, these cinnamon rolls are bound to become a festive favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

These eggnog cinnamon rolls are not just delicious; they’re a festive treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays. Here’s why you’ll adore them:

Rich and creamy eggnog flavor enhances the traditional cinnamon roll.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special breakfast treat.
Easy to make from scratch with simple ingredients.
They make your kitchen smell heavenly while baking.
Great for meal prep; you can make them ahead of time.
Ideal for sharing during Christmas celebrations.

With these qualities, it’s clear why holiday eggnog cinnamon rolls are a must-try!

Ingredients for Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

Gather these items:

4½ cups bread flour
¾ cup instant mashed potato flakes (60g, plain variety)
¼ cup powdered milk (35g)
¼ cup granulated sugar (56g)
2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (one packet)
1 teaspoon bread salt (or salt)
1¾ cups eggnog (420ml, room temperature)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
2 additional large egg yolks (room temperature)
6 tablespoons salted butter (84g, melted)
1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil (for coating the proofing pan)
½ cup salted butter (113g, softened)
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
1 cup dark brown sugar (215g, packed)
2 tablespoons corn starch
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup eggnog (180mL)
¼ cup salted butter (56g, melted)
2 cups powdered sugar (240g)
½ cup eggnog (120mL)
½ tablespoon vanilla bean paste
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon salt

How to Make Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl or stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment, mix together 4½ cups bread flour, ¾ cup instant mashed potato flakes, ¼ cup powdered milk, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon bread salt.
Step 2: Add in 1¾ cups eggnog, 2 large eggs, and 2 additional large egg yolks and mix for 15 seconds.
Step 3: Mix in the melted 6 tablespoons salted butter until thoroughly combined and the mixture resembles sticky dough.
Step 4: Cover the dough and let it rest in the bowl for 20 minutes.
Step 5: After resting, knead for about 8 minutes at medium-high speed until smooth and elastic. Resist the urge to add additional flour until the end.
Step 6: When the dough is ready, it should feel tacky but not sticky. Add additional flour 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed, mixing for about 30 seconds after each addition. Stretch and pull the sides of the dough to the center to create a ball.
Step 7: Brush 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil on a 9×9-inch pan, turn your dough out into it, and rotate to coat. Cover with cling wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 45 to 60 minutes.
Step 8: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Step 9: Roll it out into a 16×18-inch rectangle.
Step 10: Line a large 13×18-inch rimmed baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 11: Partially melt ½ cup salted butter in the microwave, then stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste and brush the mixture over the surface of the dough.
Step 12: In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons corn starch, 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon salt until mixed.
Step 13: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter and spread it evenly, leaving a ½-inch border at one end. Press the mixture into the dough.
Step 14: Cut the dough into 12 strips about 1½-inch wide from the longer side.
Step 15: Roll up each strip to create a pinwheel, starting with the sugared end.
Step 16: Place the rolls on the parchment-lined baking pan with space between them.
Step 17: Pour ¾ cup eggnog over the rolls right before covering for their second rise. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise for 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 18: Preheat the oven to 350°F while the rolls rise.
Step 19: Bake the rolls on the lowest rack for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown. The center should read 190°F on a thermometer.
Step 20: For an overnight bake, place the rolls in the fridge overnight to cold proof. Remove 10 minutes before baking.
Step 21: Mix melted ¼ cup salted butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, ½ cup eggnog, ½ tablespoon vanilla bean paste, ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon salt until smooth.
Step 22: Spread the icing over the warm rolls.

Delicious Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls for the Holidays - Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

Keep these in mind:

This recipe makes about 12 rolls.
Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
Let the dough rise in a warm environment for optimal results.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some nutmeg on top of the icing.

Best Ways to Serve Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

Enjoy these festive eggnog cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven, drizzled with the eggnog cinnamon roll frosting. They are perfect for breakfast or as a delightful dessert. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a comforting experience!

How to Store and Reheat Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

To store your delicious eggnog cinnamon rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be reheated in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm. This recipe is excellent for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy them throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

What’s the secret to perfect Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls?

The secret lies in using the right ingredients and ensuring your dough rises properly. Using room temperature eggnog and letting the dough rise in a warm place will yield the best results. This is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture in your eggnog-infused cinnamon rolls.

Can I make Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and place it in the fridge for an overnight rise. This way, you can bake them fresh in the morning, making your breakfast hassle-free. The easy eggnog cinnamon roll recipe is perfect for this kind of prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls?

Common mistakes include over-kneading the dough or not allowing it to rise enough. Make sure to knead just until smooth and elastic, and always let the dough double in size. Following the eggnog cinnamon roll baking tips will help you avoid these pitfalls!

Variations of Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, consider adding chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet twist or substituting the eggnog with a spiced rum-flavored eggnog for an adult version. For a nutty flavor, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling. These variations keep your homemade eggnog cinnamon rolls exciting and adaptable!

For more festive recipes, check out our holiday baking ideas and tips for perfecting your baking skills.