Soft & Cozy Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Frosting
These Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of two comforting classics—fluffy cinnamon rolls and warmly spiced carrot cake. Soft, gooey, and filled with sweet carrots and cinnamon goodness, they’re finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts right into every swirl.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
¾ cup warm milk (not hot)
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¾ cup finely grated carrots
For the Filling:
½ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make the Dough
Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until a soft dough forms, then knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth. Fold in the grated carrots during the last minute of kneading.
First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger.
Shape the Rolls
Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 10×14 inches). Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the sugar mixture over it. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 9–12 rolls.
Second Rise
Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
Bake
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk as needed for a creamy texture.
Finish & Serve
Spread frosting over warm rolls so it melts into every layer. Serve fresh and enjoy!
These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert—soft, spiced, and irresistibly comforting in every bite.
