There’s something magical about waking up on a chilly morning to the aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. These Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls bring that cozy holiday feeling to life with soft, fluffy dough swirled with warm cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious eggnog glaze. It’s a festive twist on the classic breakfast treat that your family and friends will request year after year.

Infused with the rich, spiced flavor of eggnog, these rolls are as indulgent as they are comforting. Perfect for Christmas morning, a holiday brunch, or simply when you need a cozy kitchen moment, they strike a beautiful balance between nostalgic and new. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get into this warm, glazed swirl of goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Holiday-Perfect Flavor: The eggnog brings a subtly sweet, nutmeg-kissed flavor that makes these rolls feel extra festive.
Pillowy Soft Texture: Thanks to the eggnog in the dough and glaze, these rolls stay tender and moist.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Crowd Pleaser: They look impressive, smell irresistible, and taste like Christmas in every bite.

What Kind of Eggnog Should I Use?

For the best flavor and consistency, use full-fat, store-bought eggnog or your favorite homemade version. Avoid reduced-fat eggnogs as they may alter the richness of both the dough and the glaze. If you’re feeling adventurous, spiced eggnog or even bourbon eggnog adds a delicious grown-up note.

Ingredients for the Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

Each ingredient plays a flavorful or functional role, building the base of these rich, gooey rolls:

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough, offering structure and softness.
Instant Yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly, creating a light, airy texture.
Warm Eggnog: Infuses the dough with richness and holiday flavor while activating the yeast.
Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture and richness to both the dough and the filling.
Granulated Sugar: Slight sweetness in the dough and enhances yeast fermentation.
Brown Sugar: The hero of the cinnamon-sugar swirl, bringing depth and a hint of molasses.
Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: The warm, aromatic spices that create the signature swirl.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Eggs: Bind the dough together and add structure and richness.
Cream Cheese: The base of the eggnog glaze, offering a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Powdered Sugar: For a smooth and sweet glaze.

How To Make the Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough

Warm the eggnog to about 110°F and combine it with yeast and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt, then gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let It Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and softened butter until you get a spreadable paste. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the cinnamon mixture evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Tightly roll the dough into a log, then slice into 12 even rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 22-28 minutes, or until golden brown and baked through.

Step 7: Make the Eggnog Glaze

Beat together cream cheese, eggnog, powdered sugar, and a pinch of nutmeg until silky smooth.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Once the rolls are slightly cooled but still warm, drizzle generously with the eggnog glaze. Serve fresh and enjoy every cozy bite.

Serving and Storing Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

This recipe yields 12 generously sized cinnamon rolls, perfect for feeding a hungry holiday crowd. Serve them warm with extra glaze on the side for drizzle lovers.

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the ooey-gooey magic.

To freeze: wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.

What to Serve With Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls?

Fresh Brewed Coffee or Espresso

Balance the sweetness of the rolls with a strong, hot cup of coffee.

Crispy Bacon

A savory side like bacon brings a satisfying salty crunch to your breakfast spread.

Fruit Salad

Bright, fresh fruit offers a light and juicy contrast to the richness of the rolls.

Cheesy Scrambled Eggs

Keep your breakfast hearty and protein-rich with a fluffy scramble.

Maple Glazed Sausages

Another savory option with a hint of sweetness to complement the eggnog flavor.

Spiced Hot Chocolate

For a double dose of festive indulgence, pair with a warm mug of cinnamon or nutmeg-infused hot cocoa.

Yogurt Parfaits

Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries give your morning some balance.

Want More Cinnamon Treat Ideas?

If these Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls gave you all the cozy feels, try out these other comforting favorites:

Oreo Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls for a chocolatey twist on a classic.
Delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake if you love cinnamon swirls in every bite.
Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins for a quicker, equally indulgent cinnamon treat.
Lemon Churro Cookies for a citrusy take on warm spices.