There’s nothing quite like the festive blend of peppermint and cocoa to make your kitchen feel like a winter wonderland. Just the thought of pulling those warm, gooey Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls out of the oven brings a smile to my face. I first whipped these up during the holiday season, hoping to impress a few friends at our annual gathering. Little did I know that they would become a staple for every occasion—from cozy brunches to last-minute potlucks.
The moment you slice into these rolls, you’re greeted by a delightful swirl of rich chocolate and zesty peppermint, paired perfectly with a creamy icing that ties it all together. They’re surprisingly simple to make, yet they look undeniably fancy—an enchanting combination that is a surefire crowd-pleaser. So, if you’re tired of fast food and craving something homemade that bursts with flavor, grab your apron, and let’s turn your kitchen into a holiday haven with these irresistible treats!
Why You'll Love This Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
- These Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for any baking skill level.
- The delightful combination of peppermint and cocoa flavors will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
- They are wonderfully versatile, perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend treat.
- When you pull them out of the oven, their stunning visual appeal will have everyone rushing to grab one.
Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Essential for a soft, fluffy texture.
• Instant yeast – Helps the dough rise quickly without waiting.
• Granulated sugar – Balances out the flavors and aids in browning.
• Salt – Enhances the overall taste of the cinnamon rolls.
• Warm milk – Activates the yeast and makes the dough supple.
• Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness to the dough for a tender bite.
• Large egg – Provides structure and moisture.
For the Filling
• Brown sugar – Adds a warm caramel flavor that complements the cocoa.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Infuses a rich chocolatey taste into the rolls.
• Ground cinnamon – Brings a warm, spicy essence to the filling.
• Unsalted butter (softened) – Ensures a spreadable filling for even distribution.
• Mini chocolate chips – Offers bursts of chocolatey goodness in every bite.
• Crushed peppermint candies – Delivers a refreshing crunch that ties the flavors together.
For the Frosting
• Cream cheese – Creates a luscious, creamy base for the frosting.
• Unsalted butter (softened) – Helps achieve a smooth and spreadable frosting.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while providing a velvety texture.
• Peppermint extract – Enhances the festive flavor of your Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls.
• Milk – Adjusts the consistency to your desired texture.
For Garnish
• Crushed peppermint bark – Adds an extra layer of festive flavor and visual appeal.
How to Make Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a sticky dough forms, and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Mix the filling: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon. This blend will be the flavor hero of your rolls!
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Roll the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough into a 16×10-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle it evenly with the brown sugar-cocoa mixture, followed by the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
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Shape the rolls: Tightly roll up the dough from the long side and slice into 12 equal rolls. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30–40 minutes until they’re puffy and adorable.
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Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen like a warm hug.
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Prepare the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Add milk a little at a time until your desired consistency is reached—creamy yet spreadable!
Optional: Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint bark on top for a festive finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls?
Creating the perfect festive meal is all about combining flavors and textures that sing together in harmony.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The vibrant, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the rolls, making each bite delightful.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with berries and granola makes a heavenly side that offers a tangy balance to the sweet cinnamon rolls.
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Hot Cocoa: This hot drink, spiced with a hint of peppermint, mirrors the theme of your rolls and creates a cozy, warm experience for your guests.
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Savory Quiche: A slice of a hearty, flavorful quiche brings a savory touch that beautifully complements the sweet rolls, making for an appetizing brunch.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon adds texture and flavor contrast, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the cinnamon rolls.
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Spiced Chai: This aromatic tea benefits from spices that harmonize with the cinnamon in the rolls while offering warmth and comfort.
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Pecan Pie: For dessert lovers, the nutty sweetness of a rich pecan pie serves as a decadent finale that pairs quite well with your festive treats.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream elevates your rolls, adding a touch of creamy indulgence that pairs perfectly with the peppermint flavors.
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Mint Mojito: For a sparkling beverage option, a mint mojito provides a refreshing and minty counterpart to the flavors of the rolls.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: A plate of freshly baked cookies offers a familiar comfort and an additional sweet element, perfect for those who can’t get enough chocolate!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time while still enjoying delicious homemade treats! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of placing the sliced rolls in the baking dish, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly before baking. This not only preserves their fluffy texture but also enhances their flavor, making them just as delightful as if freshly made. Enjoy warm, gooey rolls with minimal morning fuss!
Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls and explore these enticing twists!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. They’ll still be deliciously fluffy and satisfying!
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Vegan: Substitute almond milk and vegan butter for the dough, and switch the egg for a flax egg. You’ll get all the comfort without any animal products.
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Nutty Flavor: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for an added crunch that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Decadent Chocolate: For die-hard chocolate lovers, swap in chocolate hazelnut spread instead of softened butter in the filling for an extra chocolatey experience.
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Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into your cinnamon-sugar mix for a warm, spicy contrast to the peppermint that will surprise your taste buds!
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Bourbon Glaze: Elevate the festive spirit by adding a splash of bourbon or rum to your cream cheese frosting—just the right touch for adult gatherings!
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Extra Peppermint: Fold in chopped peppermint patties or Andes mints into the filling for a double dose of peppermint pleasure.
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Fruit-Infused: Add finely chopped cranberries or cherries to the filling for a tart contrast that makes each bite pop with flavor, perfect for holiday cheer!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep your Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: If you need them to last longer, these rolls can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked rolls before the second rise. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, keeping them fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply let frozen rolls thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Drizzle with frosting after reheating!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls, ensure your milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the instant yeast for optimal rising.
- A common mistake is using cold ingredients which can hinder the dough’s ability to rise adequately, so remember to take your butter and egg out ahead of time.
- When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure all the rolls bake uniformly and avoid burning the edges.
- Finally, keep a close eye on your rolls during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from over-browning, as every oven can vary slightly in temperature.
Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your flour is fresh, ideally unbleached all-purpose flour. When picking your peppermint candies, look for vibrant, clear colors without any dark spots, indicating freshness. Your yeast should be within its expiration date and be kept at room temperature prior to using for optimal activation.
How should I store my leftover Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls?
I recommend keeping your Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can wrap them securely and store them in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for about 5 days!
Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! To freeze, shape the unbaked rolls and place them on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes to firm up. Then transfer them to a plastic wrap and aluminum foil to tightly seal. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before allowing them a second rise and baking.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very commonly, this happens if your yeast was either expired or not activated correctly. For the best results, use warm milk (around 100°F/38°C) instead of cold, giving your yeast the perfect environment to grow. If you’ve made dough and you notice it isn’t rising, don’t fret; let it sit in a warmer location and give it a little more time—sometimes, it just needs a tad extra love!
Are Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls safe for dogs or other pets?
No, it’s best to keep these delicious treats away from pets. The ingredients like chocolate and peppermint can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider baking a separate batch using safe ingredients like oats and pumpkin.
Can I make Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can create a delightful batch using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it separately, as this helps mimic the elasticity of regular flour, ensuring your rolls remain soft and fluffy.
Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a sticky dough forms, and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough into a 16×10-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle it evenly with the brown sugar-cocoa mixture, followed by the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
- Tightly roll up the dough from the long side and slice into 12 equal rolls. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30–40 minutes until they're puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Add milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint bark on top for a festive finish.
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