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Easy Halloween Cinnamon Rolls

Easy Halloween Cinnamon Rolls

Easy Halloween Cinnamon Rolls are a playful, delicious way to celebrate the season. These festive cinnamon treats, with their orange dough and chocolatey swirls, are perfect for Halloween gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup 240ml whole milk
  • ¼ cup 60ml vegetable oil
  • 6 tbsp 75g granulated sugar
  • tsp 1 packet active dry yeast
  • cups 345g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Orange food coloring
  • Halloween sprinkles optional

For the Chocolate Cinnamon Filling:

  • 6 tbsp 85g unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup 150g packed dark brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp black cocoa or regular cocoa
  • 3 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup 85g dark chocolate chips (optional)

For the Vanilla Icing:

  • cups 190g confectioners’ sugar
  • 3 tbsp 45ml milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare Dough

  • In a saucepan, I heat 1 cup milk, ¼ cup oil, and 6 tbsp sugar to 170–180°F (77–82°C), then cool to 110°F (43°C). In a stand mixer, I sprinkle 2¼ tsp yeast over the mixture, let it foam for 5 minutes, then add 2¾ cups flour, 1 tsp salt, and a few drops of orange food coloring. I mix with the paddle attachment, switch to the dough hook, and knead for 6–8 minutes until elastic. I transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled for fluffy festive cinnamon treats.

Make Filling

  • In a bowl, I mix 6 tbsp softened butter, ¾ cup brown sugar, 3 tbsp black cocoa, 3 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp salt, and 2 tsp vanilla until spreadable. I fold in ½ cup chocolate chips (if using) for rich vibrant spooky rolls.

Roll and Shape

  • I punch down the dough, roll it into a 12×16-inch rectangle on a floured surface, and spread the filling evenly. Starting from the long side, I roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls using a knife or floss. I arrange them in a greased 9×16-inch pan, cover, and let rise for 45 minutes until puffy for perfect festive cinnamon treats.

Bake and Ice

  • I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20–22 minutes until soft and slightly golden. I whisk 1½ cups confectioners’ sugar, 3 tbsp milk, and 1 tsp vanilla for icing, drizzle over warm rolls, and sprinkle with Halloween sprinkles for vibrant spooky rolls.

Notes

Use black cocoa for deep color and rich flavor, or substitute with dark cocoa if needed. For natural coloring, try turmeric or carrot powder instead of orange dye. Make ahead: bake and freeze un-iced rolls, then reheat and glaze before serving. Use unflavored dental floss to slice rolls cleanly without flattening. Decorate with candy eyes or themed sprinkles for a spooky finish.

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Keyword Easy Halloween Cinnamon Rolls