Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction to Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

As the holiday season approaches, my heart races with excitement, especially when I think about making Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls. There’s something magical about blending peppermint and chocolate, creating a cozy treat that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a quick solution for a busy day filled with festivities, this sweet, fluffy dough wrapped around decadent filling will surely impress your loved ones. Plus, the aroma wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly gathering around the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy roll that oozes with peppermint and chocolate goodness. Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are not just easy to make; they bring joy to your festive gatherings. They’re perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests, requiring just a little time and effort. Best of all, the rich flavors and soft texture transport you to a holiday wonderland with every bite. Trust me, your family will adore them!

Ingredients for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

To create the magic of Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need a delightful mix of ingredients that combine to form the ultimate festive treat. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• All-purpose flour: This is the base of your dough, providing structure and that soft, fluffy texture we love.
• Instant yeast: This little powerhouse helps your rolls rise beautifully, giving them a light and airy feel.
• Granulated sugar: It sweetens the dough, enhancing its flavor and creating a lovely golden crust when baked.
• Salt: A key ingredient that balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the dough.
• warm milk: It nourishes the yeast and adds moisture to the dough; just make sure it’s warm, not too hot!
• Melted unsalted butter: This enriches the dough, resulting in a tender bite that’s oh-so-delicious.
• Large egg: It adds richness and helps bind the dough together, providing that delightful chewy texture.
• Brown sugar: This gives your filling a caramel touch, enriching the sweetness.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that hint of chocolate flavor, enhancing the overall indulgence.
• Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that makes everything cozy, perfect for holiday flavors.
• Softened unsalted butter: It’s spread across the dough before filling; think of it as the luscious glue that holds the good stuff!
• Mini chocolate chips: These little gems add pockets of chocolate happiness throughout your rolls.
• Crunched peppermint candies: They offer a refreshing crunch and festive pop of color, making each bite special.
• Cream cheese: This is the star of the glaze, creating a smooth and tangy topping that balances the sweetness.
• Powdered sugar: Essential for the glaze, it brings sweetness without the grittiness.
• Peppermint extract: A touch of this adds a delightful burst of mint flavor, reminiscent of holiday traditions.
• Milk for glaze: Just a splash to blend the glaze to your preferred consistency.
• Crumpled peppermint bark: The final touch to sprinkle on top, intensifying the festive vibes.

Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for printing convenience. Happy baking!

How to Make Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

Making Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls is an adventure filled with joy and mouthwatering aromas! Follow these simple steps to unleash deliciousness in your kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. This is your dry mix, which sets the foundation for our sweet rolls. Next, gently add the warm milk, melted unsalted butter, and the egg. Mix until you have a sticky dough that barely clings to your fingers. Don’t worry if it’s a little messy! Knead the dough by hand or use a dough hook for about 6 to 8 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. Once it reaches that dreamy consistency, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, until it’s doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, let’s work on that irresistible filling! In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon. This mix will create a chocolatey surprise in each bite. Set this aside momentarily to help build anticipation for those first rolls out of the oven!

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

Once the dough has risen, it’s time to roll it out into a dreamy rectangle about 16 inches by 10 inches on a lightly floured surface. For the next step, spread the softened unsalted butter across the dough; think of it as the glue that binds happiness. Sprinkle your brown sugar-cocoa mixture evenly over that luscious layer. Now, add mini chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies, giving your rolls extra holiday cheer! After that, carefully roll the dough up tightly from the long edge. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Trust me; this is where the magic starts!

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

Arrange your rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them lightly again, and let them rise for another 30 to 40 minutes. You want them to look puffy and full of promise. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you wait. Once they’ve risen beautifully, pop those rolls in the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown. It’s going to be a tough wait, but every second is worth it!

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, let’s whip up that fabulous glaze! In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until they’re perfectly smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and peppermint extract, mixing it all together. You’ll want to add milk a little at a time to reach your desired consistency. This glaze is like wrapping your rolls in a nice, warm hug of sweetness!

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

As soon as your rolls are out of the oven, spread that dreamy glaze generously over the warm rolls. Watch as it melts into the nooks and crannies, creating a gooey treat that’s impossible to resist. Finally, sprinkle with crushed peppermint bark for that finishing touch. Serve warm and get ready for the compliments to roll in!

Tips for Success

• Always use warm milk, around 100°F, to activate the yeast effectively.
• Don’t skip the first rise; it’s crucial for fluffy rolls.
• Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the dough for clean edges.
• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Feel free to customize glaze thickness with more or less milk.

Equipment Needed for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl works best, but any bowl will do.
• Dough Hook or Hands: A stand mixer makes it easier, but mixing by hand is just as rewarding.
• Rolling Pin: If you don’t have one, a clean wine bottle can work in a pinch.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any similar size will suffice.
• Whisk and Spatula: Useful for mixing and spreading, a spoon can double as an alternative!

Variations of Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

• Dark Chocolate Chips: Swap out mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.
• Vegan Option: Replace dairy with plant-based milk and butter, and use a flax egg as an alternative to the egg.
• Reduction in Sugar: Decrease the amount of sugar in both the dough and glaze for a less sweet version.

Serving Suggestions for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

• Pair with a rich, hot cup of cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy beverage experience.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent twist.
• Serve with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or oranges, to balance sweetness.
• For festive flair, garnish plates with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint bark.
• Present rolls on a cake stand for an eye-catching centerpiece at your holiday gathering.

FAQs about Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

Can I prepare these Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls a day ahead, allow them to rise, and then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them come back to room temperature before baking for the best results.

What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, vanilla extract works too! While it won’t give you the same minty flavor, it adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the glaze.

How should I store leftover rolls?

Store any leftover Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them individually, then thawing when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I customize the filling for different flavors?

Of course! You can mix in chopped nuts, swap the chocolate chips for dried fruit, or even switch the cocoa for a flavored spread like Nutella. Make these rolls your own!

What should I serve with my cinnamon rolls?

For a festive touch, serve your rolls with a side of rich hot cocoa, or replace a morning coffee with peppermint tea for that extra holiday feel. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, these Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls aren’t just a treat; they embody the spirit of the holiday season. The combination of warm dough, chocolate, and peppermint creates a delightful experience that lights up the table and warms hearts. Imagine gathering with family, sharing laughter and these heavenly rolls fresh from the oven; it’s a moment you’ll cherish. Plus, they’re simple enough for a busy day, making it easy to spread joy. So, roll up your sleeves and whip up a batch of these festive goodies. You won’t regret it!

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