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Candy Cane Cinnamon Rolls

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Soft, buttery cinnamon rolls filled with Nutella, crushed candy canes, and warm cinnamon, then topped with a peppermint glaze. These festive Candy Cane Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for Christmas morning or any cozy winter brunch.

Ingredients

Dough:

1 cup warm milk (95–100°F)

2 ½ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

2 tbsp granulated sugar

¼ cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1 large egg

3 ½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour

½ tsp salt

Filling:

2 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature

½ cup Nutella

½ cup finely crushed candy cane

2 tsp ground cinnamon

Glaze:

½ cup powdered sugar

3 tsp milk

¼ cup finely crushed candy cane

Topping:

Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 4–5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add butter and egg; mix briefly. Add salt and flour in thirds, mixing until a smooth dough forms that pulls away from the bowl.
  3. Knead with the dough hook for 5 minutes until elastic. Transfer to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down dough and roll into a 13×17-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  5. Spread softened butter over dough, then Nutella. Sprinkle crushed candy cane and cinnamon evenly.
  6. Roll tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a serrated knife or dental floss.
  7. Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
  8. Bake 20–22 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. For glaze, whisk powdered sugar and milk until smooth, then stir in crushed candy cane. Drizzle over warm rolls or dust with powdered sugar if preferred.

Notes

Substitute Nutella with white chocolate spread or cookie butter for variation.

Add peppermint extract to the glaze for stronger flavor.

Use unflavored dental floss for clean cuts when slicing the dough.

Refrigerate dough overnight after first rise for morning baking.

Store covered for 3 days at room temperature or 5 days refrigerated.

Reheat gently in microwave for 20–30 seconds before serving.

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