Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There’s something magical about the holidays, and if you’re like many people, you probably love baking festive treats. One of the most popular ways to add a holiday twist to your baking is by incorporating peppermint into classic recipes. And what better way to do this than with Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls? These sweet, fluffy rolls combine the rich flavors of cinnamon, chocolate, and peppermint bark, creating the ultimate festive treat for breakfast or dessert. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that’ll be sure to impress your family and friends!

Recipe Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup peppermint bark (chopped into small pieces)

For the frosting:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Crushed peppermint candy (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by warming the milk in a small bowl until it’s lukewarm, not hot. Add the yeast and a pinch of sugar to the milk and stir. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and vanilla. Gradually add in the milk-yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Mix everything until a dough forms, and knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s smooth and elastic, place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a bowl until combined. Chop the peppermint bark into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the chopped peppermint bark pieces over the sugar. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12-15 rolls.

Step 4: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they’re snug together. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolls are rising. Once ready, bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk. Stir until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for 5-10 minutes, then drizzle with the frosting.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

For extra festive flair, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the frosted rolls. These rolls are perfect when served warm, straight from the oven, or even reheated the next day.

Recipe Notes

• Peppermint Bark: You can find peppermint bark in most grocery stores, especially during the holiday season. If you can’t find it, you can make your own by melting white chocolate and mixing in crushed peppermint candy.
• Dough Rising: Make sure your dough is in a warm, draft-free place to rise. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with the light on to help it rise faster.
• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, store them in the fridge for up to a week.

Time and Serving

• Prep time: 15 minutes (excluding rise time)
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise time)
• Servings: 12-15 rolls

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Perfect Frosting: If you prefer a thicker frosting, add a bit more powdered sugar to reach your desired consistency.
• Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough after it rises for 30 minutes before rolling it out. This can make it easier to handle and roll without it sticking.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these peppermint bark cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of cocoa or a warm, spiced latte for the ultimate holiday treat!

How to Serve

These rolls are perfect for holiday breakfasts, brunches, or even as a dessert. If you want to make them extra special, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great gift idea if you’re looking to bring a homemade, festive treat to your friends or neighbors.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Rolling pin
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Electric mixer (optional, for frosting)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Knife or dough cutter

Health Benefits

While these Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are a treat, they do offer a few health benefits:

• Peppermint: Known to help with digestion and reduce bloating, peppermint offers more than just a refreshing flavor.
• Cinnamon: Rich in antioxidants and known to help regulate blood sugar levels, cinnamon is an excellent addition to any baked good.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply bake them as instructed. This will save you time on busy mornings, especially during the holidays!

2. Can I substitute the peppermint bark with something else?
Absolutely! If you can’t find peppermint bark, you can use crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips. Just make sure to combine them with a bit of white chocolate to replicate the bark’s texture and flavor.

3. How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just pop them in the microwave or oven for a few seconds to warm them up.

4. Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes, these rolls freeze really well! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them up in the oven.

5. Can I make these rolls without using an electric mixer?
Of course! You can mix the dough by hand using a wooden spoon or by kneading it on a floured surface. An electric mixer just makes the process a little easier, but it’s not necessary for the recipe to work.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are a fun and festive twist on a classic favorite, making them the perfect holiday treat to share with family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in something delicious, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With easy-to-follow steps, helpful tips, and a healthy dose of peppermint and cinnamon, these rolls are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Enjoy!