Name: Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-488527H52M44S
Total time: PT-488527H52M44S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F); 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup grated carrots; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins, or pineapple bits; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These rolls are a game-changer for anyone who loves cinnamon rolls and carrot cake. The dough is tender and slightly sweet, the filling is packed with grated carrots, cinnamon, and brown sugar, and the frosting adds just the right amount of indulgence. They taste like a bakery-quality treat but can be made right in your kitchen with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Warm milk
Active dry yeast
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Salt
Grated carrots
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground ginger
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Optional add-ins: chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins, or pineapple bits

Directions

Warm the milk to about 110°F and combine it with yeast and a bit of sugar. Let it sit until frothy.
In a mixing bowl, combine the milk mixture with eggs, melted butter, sugar, salt, and flour. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
While the dough rises, mix the grated carrots with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir in any optional add-ins.
Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the carrot filling evenly on top.
Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into equal slices.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Frost the warm rolls and serve fresh.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 cinnamon rolls.
Prep time: 30 minutes (plus 90 minutes rise time)
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: About 2.5 hours

Variations

Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast baking.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for crunch.
Tropical Flair: Mix in crushed pineapple and shredded coconut for a fruity carrot cake vibe.
Maple Frosting: Add maple syrup to the cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 20–30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
To freeze, wrap the unfrosted rolls individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight and frost before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before the second rise. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

Yes, peeling the carrots ensures a cleaner texture and better flavor in the filling.

Can I use store-bought shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are recommended, as they are more moist and tender.

What’s the best flour to use?

All-purpose flour works best for a soft and fluffy texture.

How do I know if the dough has risen enough?

It should double in size and spring back slowly when pressed with a finger.

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, but you can skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Can I freeze baked cinnamon rolls?

Yes, freeze without frosting. Reheat and frost before serving for best results.

Why are my rolls dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Measure carefully and don’t overcook.

Is the frosting necessary?

While optional, the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast that complements the sweet rolls beautifully.

Conclusion

Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious and creative way to enjoy your favorite dessert flavors in a fun, rollable form. They’re comforting, festive, and totally satisfying—perfect for brunch tables, holiday mornings, or just treating yourself. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.