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Carrot cake cinnamon rolls topped with cream cheese frosting on a white plate
John

Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

These Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls combine all the warm, cozy flavors of classic carrot cake with the soft, gooey texture of homemade cinnamon rolls. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re the perfect treat for brunch, holidays, or anytime you crave something sweet and comforting.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1 cup finely grated carrots
Filling Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans optional
Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar sifted
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and grated carrots. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and softened butter in a bowl. Stir in chopped pecans if using.
  5. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
  6. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal rolls. Arrange them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  7. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before frosting.
  9. For the frosting, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

For an extra indulgent touch, add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top of the frosted rolls. You can also prepare them the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 385 kcal
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 280mg
Total Carbohydrates: 58g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 85% DV