Carrot cake cinnamon rolls are the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of warm spices and sweet, baked dough. Imagine the soft, fluffy texture of a classic cinnamon roll swirled with a spiced carrot filling, then topped with creamy frosting—it’s comfort in every bite. This recipe brings together the best of two beloved desserts, making it perfect for Easter brunch, holiday mornings, or simply when you want something special. In this guide, we’ll explore the story behind these rolls, essential ingredients, step-by-step baking tips, and creative variations to make them your own.
Table of Contents
The Spark & Story
Why Combine Carrot Cake and Cinnamon Rolls?
The first time I thought about merging these two classics, I was in the middle of baking a batch of cinnamon rolls for a family brunch. I had just finished grating carrots for a carrot cake when it hit me—why not bring those flavors together? Carrot cake has that moist, tender crumb and warm spice profile, while cinnamon rolls are all about soft, pillowy layers swirled with sweetness. Combining them means you get the best of both worlds in every bite. It’s a match made for spice lovers and anyone who can’t decide between cake and pastries for dessert.
What Makes Them “Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls”?
It’s all in the details. Freshly grated carrots add moisture and a natural sweetness to the filling, blending seamlessly with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of ginger. Some bakers fold the carrots directly into the dough for extra softness, while others keep them in the filling so the orange specks peek through each swirl. A generous layer of cream cheese frosting seals the deal, echoing the signature topping of traditional carrot cake. Optional mix-ins like chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or plump raisins can take the rolls to another level, giving them even more texture and flavor depth.
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Carrot Cake and Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls meet the cozy spice of carrot cake in this irresistible treat. Freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a swirl of brown sugar-cinnamon filling make these rolls tender and flavorful. Topped with creamy vanilla-infused cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for brunch, dessert, or an indulgent breakfast. These rolls can be prepared ahead and baked the next day, making them a wonderful option for holiday mornings or special gatherings.
Ingredients
4 1/4 cups (550g) all-purpose flour + extra for dusting
4 1/2 tsp (14g) instant dry yeast (2 packets)
1/2 tsp (3g) fine salt
1 cup (240g) whole milk
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups (210g) finely shredded carrots (about 3 large carrots, wrung out to 105g)
1 large egg (56g), room temperature
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Filling:
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, very soft
2/3 cup (133g) packed light brown sugar
1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/4 tsp fine salt
1/2 cup (125g) chopped pecans, toasted (optional)
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Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 cup (226g) cream cheese, room temperature
2 tsp (8g) vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
1 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Heat milk, butter, and sugar until warm (not hot); pour into dry mixture and mix.
3. Wring out grated carrots to remove excess liquid, then mix into dough.
4. Add egg and mix until a sticky dough forms; knead until elastic.
5. Add small amounts of flour until dough is tacky but not sticky; cover and rest 10–20 min.
6. Mix filling ingredients into a soft paste.
7. Roll dough into 14×24-inch rectangle; spread filling evenly.
8. Roll and cut into 12 rolls (or cut strips and roll individually).
9. Place rolls in lined 9×13-inch pan; proof until doubled in size.
10. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 26–30 minutes until golden.
11. Mix frosting ingredients until smooth.
12. Cool rolls 10–20 min, then frost and serve warm.
Notes
For best texture, wring carrots well to prevent sticky dough.
Can be prepared the night before and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before baking.
If using glass bakeware, reduce oven temperature by 25°F and extend bake time slightly.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain softness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Bread & Cinnamon Rolls
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 577
- Sugar: 35
- Sodium: 244
- Fat: 27
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Unsaturated Fat: 11
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 76
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 78
Keywords: carrot cake cinnamon rolls, cream cheese frosting, Easter brunch, spiced rolls
Ingredients & Variations
Essential Ingredients & Optional Twists
To make carrot cake cinnamon rolls, you’ll need the basics for a soft, enriched dough—flour, yeast, warm milk, butter, sugar, and eggs. The filling is where the carrot cake inspiration shines: freshly grated carrots, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger. A smooth, tangy frosting comes together by blending cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla, giving the rolls their signature finish.
For extra texture, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans, shredded coconut, or plump raisins. If you love shortcuts, you can even try a 2 ingredient carrot cinnamon rolls method—using pre-made dough and a spiced carrot filling for quicker prep without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Alternatives and Creative Flavor Ideas
For those who enjoy experimenting, swap part of the white flour for whole wheat to add a nutty depth. You can also use a carrot-infused dough, much like the style seen in carrot cake cinnamon buns, for a richer color and taste. If you’ve seen the viral carrot cake cinnamon rolls Matty recipe, you know adding extra spice and a touch of maple syrup can transform the flavor. For a lighter twist, use Greek yogurt in the frosting for a tangy, creamy finish. No matter which route you choose, the result is a soft, spiced roll that feels like a bakery indulgence made right in your own kitchen.
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
Mixing, Kneading, and Proofing the Dough
Start by activating your yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar until it’s foamy—this ensures your rolls will rise beautifully. Mix in the melted butter, eggs, and remaining sugar, then gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for roughly 8 to 10 minutes, until it feels soft and stretchy. Transfer it to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and leave it in a warm place to rise until it has doubled in volume—this usually takes about an hour. The dough should feel pillowy and easy to roll out—similar in texture to enriched bakes like the Cloud Cake Recipe or the airy layers in Divorce Cake.
Filling, Rolling, and Baking
Roll the proofed dough into a rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle evenly with your carrot-spice mixture. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and slice into even pieces, about 1½ inches wide. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden on top and cooked through. Once slightly cooled, spread with your cream cheese frosting for the final decadent touch. If you enjoy hybrid desserts, these will feel right at home alongside treats like Cherry Orchard Pie or the layered charm of French Coconut Pie.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
Best Times to Serve & Pairings
Carrot cake cinnamon rolls are a showstopper for Easter brunch, but they also shine at holiday breakfasts, weekend family gatherings, or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Their warm spices and tender texture pair beautifully with fresh fruit, hot coffee, or spiced tea. The contrast of tangy frosting with juicy berries or citrus is especially inviting and makes each bite feel balanced and fresh.
Storage, Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can easily be made ahead. To prep in advance, assemble the rolls up to the second rise, then refrigerate overnight and bake the next morning. Baked rolls will keep for up to three days in an airtight container at room temperature, or up to a week in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them—either baked or unbaked—for up to a month. If freezing after baking, wrap each roll individually to preserve moisture. Reheat gently in the oven before serving, and the rolls will be just as soft and aromatic as the day you made them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are carrot cake cinnamon rolls?
They’re a fusion of two beloved desserts—soft cinnamon rolls swirled with a spiced filling that includes shredded carrots, often topped with cream cheese frosting for that classic carrot cake touch.
Do you incorporate carrots into the dough or the filling?
It depends on the recipe. Some bakers mix finely grated carrots into the dough for extra moisture, while others add them to the filling so the bright orange strands show in each swirl.
Is it better to grate fresh carrots?
Yes. Freshly grated carrots provide more moisture and a softer texture than pre-shredded ones, which can be drier and less flavorful.
Can these be made ahead or frozen?
Absolutely. You can prepare them ahead, refrigerate overnight before baking, or freeze either before or after baking. Just reheat gently before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftover rolls?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Carrot cake cinnamon rolls bring together the cozy warmth of cinnamon spice and the moist sweetness of classic carrot cake, creating a dessert (or breakfast) that feels indulgent yet familiar. Whether you serve them at a holiday brunch, as a weekend baking project, or simply to brighten an ordinary morning, they’re guaranteed to draw smiles. With endless ways to customize—from adding nuts and coconut to experimenting with different frostings—you can make each batch uniquely yours. I’d love to see your creations—join me on Facebook and follow along on Pinterest for more delicious inspiration.