Incredible Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Guide

Alright, flavor adventurers! Get ready to unleash some serious holiday cheer because I’m about to drop a recipe that’s going to blow your peppermint-loving minds. I’m talking about Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls – the ultimate mashup of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls and the cool, refreshing crunch of peppermint bark. This isn’t your grandma’s cinnamon roll recipe, folks. We’re about to take those classic flavors to a whole new dimension of deliciousness, Cuba Queen style!

I remember the exact moment these Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls were born. It was December, the air was crisp, and my kitchen was filled with the scent of cinnamon and vanilla. I had just finished a batch of my signature cinnamon rolls (you know, the ones that disappear in seconds at every party!), and I had leftover peppermint bark from a holiday bake-off.

A flavor bomb went off in my head – why not combine the two? The first attempt was… well, let’s just say it was edible but not quite the explosion of flavor I was craving. But after tweaking the peppermint to cinnamon ratio, and finding the perfect balance between the dough, filling, and frosting, I had it! These Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are now a holiday tradition I can’t wait to share.

These aren’t just any Peppermint Cinnamon Rolls; they’re a reflection of everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, unapologetic deliciousness, and a commitment to making every meal feel like a celebration. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a holiday wonderland with this epic recipe. Prepare for some holiday cinnamon rolls perfection. Let’s dive in!

This ingredient list is short but mighty! The key to nailing these Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls is using high-quality ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: Don’t skimp on quality here, it really does make a difference in the texture of your rolls.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For that touch of sweetness that balances the peppermint.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and keeps things from being cloying.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: This is the secret to a super tender, melt-in-your-mouth dough.
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed: Helps the yeast activate and creates a rich dough.
• 2 large eggs: Adds richness and structure to the dough.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast: Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: For the filling – don’t even think about using margarine!
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Go for fresh ground cinnamon for the most intense flavor.
• 8 ounces peppermint bark, chopped: This is where the magic happens! You can find this at most grocery stores during the holidays.
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: The base for our tangy, dreamy frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Adds the sweetness and structure to the frosting.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: For the ultimate creamy frosting.
• 1/4 cup milk: To achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Intensifies that refreshing peppermint flavor.
• Optional: Crushed peppermint candies, for topping: For extra crunch and festive flair!

Splurge on the peppermint bark! The quality of the bark will make a huge difference. I always grab mine from a local chocolatier. For budget-friendly alternatives, you can make your own peppermint bark. Also, did you know you can prepare the dough and let it rest in the fridge overnight? Talk about a breakfast win!

Alright, flavor adventurers, get ready to roll because we’re about to dive headfirst into Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls heaven!

1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, warm milk, eggs, and yeast. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Pro tip for Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls perfection: don’t skip the kneading! It develops the gluten, which gives the rolls their chewy texture.
2. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. In my kitchen, this Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls dough takes exactly 1 hour and 15 minutes to rise perfectly. Set a timer so you don’t forget! While your dough is rising, check out this recipe for Caramel Apple Sangria, another flavor explosion.
3. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by creaming together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside. Make sure your butter is truly softened – not melted – for the best results.
4. Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with the chopped peppermint bark. This is where your Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls transforms into pure magic!
5. Roll ‘Em Up: Starting on the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices. This is where most people mess up their Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls – but not you! Using floss gives you clean cuts and prevents the rolls from getting squished.
6. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Your Christmas Cinnamon Rolls should look golden brown and feel firm to the touch. The aroma will be intoxicating!
7. Whip Up the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
8. Frost and Devour: Once the rolls are slightly cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies, if desired. Grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! Then, devour immediately. These Christmas Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed warm!

Don’t stress if your rolls aren’t perfectly uniform. Imperfection adds character!

These Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a dessert; they’re a statement. The peppermint is a nice compliment to the cinnamon. Here’s how to present them for maximum impact:

• Presentation is Key: Arrange the rolls on a festive platter, drizzled with extra frosting and sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance.
• Bold Pairing Suggestions: Serve these rolls with a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a creamy peppermint latte. For a boozy twist, try pairing them with a peppermint white Russian. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls with homemade hot chocolate at holiday gatherings!
• Perfect Occasions: These rolls are perfect for Christmas morning, holiday brunches, or as a sweet treat for Santa (he deserves something special!). They also absolutely slay at potlucks!
• Instagram-Worthy Plating: Use a piping bag to create decorative swirls of frosting. Add sprigs of fresh mint for a pop of color. And don’t forget to capture that gooey, deliciousness for the ‘gram!
• Crowd Reactions: I’ve witnessed grown adults practically weep with joy after tasting these rolls. The combination of warm cinnamon, refreshing peppermint, and creamy frosting is simply irresistible.
• Creative Leftover Transformations: If you somehow have leftovers (doubtful!), try using them to make French toast or bread pudding.
• Seasonal Variations: For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the dough. For a nuttier flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling. I’ve even experimented with adding a layer of dark chocolate ganache – talk about decadent!

The secret to a show-stopping presentation is all in the details. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Got questions? I’ve got answers! I’ve tested this recipe so many times, I could practically make it in my sleep. Here’s some wisdom from my kitchen to yours.

1. Can I make these Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the rolls in the morning. Let them rise for an hour before baking.
2. What if I don’t have peppermint bark? No problem! You can use dark chocolate chips instead. Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the filling for that signature peppermint flavor.
3. How do I know when my Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are perfectly done? They should be golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
4. Can I make these Peppermint Cinnamon Rolls vegan? Yes! Use plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese.
5. What if my yeast doesn’t activate? Make sure your milk is warm, not hot. If the yeast still doesn’t bubble after 5-10 minutes, it’s likely expired. Start with a fresh packet.
6. Can I make these spicier? If you want to add a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon filling. This adds a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness.
7. How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny? Add powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s still too thin, add a tablespoon of cornstarch.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation. Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your taste! If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try the recipe for the Best Chili from my blog.

These Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a celebration of flavor, a testament to the magic of combining unexpected ingredients, and a perfect example of what Cuba Queen is all about: bold, unapologetic deliciousness that turns ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.

Here are my Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls Power Tips:

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Splurge on the good stuff! The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your rolls.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will result in dry, tough rolls. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re golden brown.
• Frost While Warm: Frosting the rolls while they’re still slightly warm allows the frosting to melt and seep into every nook and cranny, creating a truly decadent experience.

Here are some Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls variations I’ve created and loved:

• Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
• Nutella Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls: Swirl Nutella into the filling for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Cranberry Orange Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls: Add dried cranberries and orange zest to the filling for a festive twist.

The Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls always gets the biggest reactions! Now, I’m confident you can make these a signature dish, and transform you into a peppermint baking master.

So go ahead, flavor adventurers! Get in the kitchen and whip up a batch of these epic Peppermint Bark Cinnamon Rolls. Trust me, they’re worth every delicious calorie. And don’t forget to share your creations with me! Snap a photo, tag me on social media, and let me know what you think. Let’s create some flavor memories together! If you need another tasty treat, check out this Peppermint Bark Bread from Wood & Spoon!