Dessert

Cinnamon Rolls with a Matcha Glaze Recipe

ByMarina Montclair November 7, 2025November 7, 2025

Introduction

These cinnamon rolls with a matcha glaze offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Soft, buttery rolls are swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a subtly earthy green tea glaze, perfect for breakfast or a special treat.

The image shows close-up of three thick swirled rolls in a white baking dish, covered with a shiny green glaze that looks smooth and slightly speckled with black dots. Each roll has two visible layers: an outer green layer with a glossy texture and an inner darker brown spiral, giving a contrast of colors and a soft bread-like look. The green glaze appears thick and evenly spread over the rolls, creating a smooth surface with a few bubbles and small holes. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh and vibrant look of the rolls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ cup whole milk
1 packet active dry yeast
½ cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
1 egg (room temperature)
¼ tsp salt
3 cups all purpose flour
3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened, for filling)
5 tbsp light brown sugar
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp whole milk (for glaze)
1 tsp matcha powder
¾ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Warm the milk on the stove or in the microwave until it reaches 100-110°F (38-43°C).
Step 2: In a liquid measuring cup, combine the warm milk with the active dry yeast and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 3: Pour the yeast mixture into a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl. Add 6 tablespoons softened butter and whisk or mix until the butter breaks into small pieces. Use the dough attachment if using a stand mixer.
Step 4: Add the egg and salt to the bowl and whisk until incorporated. Small lumps of butter are fine.
Step 5: Gradually add the flour, whisking until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or with the mixer for 6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 6: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with aluminum foil, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 7: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it into a 12×12 inch square. Spread 3 tablespoons softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
Step 8: Roll the dough into a tight 12-inch log. Trim the ends and cut into 9 equal pieces by dividing into thirds, then each third into thirds again for even rolls.
Step 9: Place the rolls cut side up in a greased 10×10 inch baking dish or cast iron pan. Cover with foil and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Step 10: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolls are rising.
Step 11: Bake the rolls covered for 15 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown. If needed, bake 1-2 minutes longer for more browning.
Step 12: While baking, prepare the glaze by mixing whole milk, matcha powder, and powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 13: Drizzle the matcha glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use room temperature ingredients to help the dough rise evenly and quickly.
For a richer filling, add chopped nuts or raisins along with the cinnamon sugar.
If you don’t have matcha powder, you can substitute with vanilla or lemon glaze for a different flavor profile.

Storage

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, then add fresh glaze before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of two cinnamon rolls in a white dish, both covered with a thick, shiny green glaze that has a smooth, glossy texture speckled with tiny black dots. Each roll has a clear spiral pattern with a golden-brown dough base peeking through the vibrant green glaze, creating a contrast between the deep brown of the cinnamon swirl and the bright green topping. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, enhancing the colors of the rolls. The light reflects off the glaze, showing its sticky and rich texture, making the rolls appear fresh and delicious. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise again before rolling and baking.

What if I don’t have matcha powder?

If matcha is unavailable, try a simple vanilla or lemon glaze instead, or skip the glaze entirely and enjoy the rolls with butter or cream cheese frosting.