The aroma of freshly baked gingerbread wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy holiday morning. There’s something enchanting about these Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting; they effortlessly blend the classic flavors of Christmas into fluffy, irresistible rolls. Not only do they provide a delightful twist to your usual breakfast or brunch, but their warm ginger and cinnamon filling becomes the ultimate comfort food when topped with a silky cream cheese frosting. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up even when the holiday hustle is in full swing. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with this festive cheer? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Irresistible?
Warm, Festive Flavors: The combination of ginger and cinnamon brings a cozy holiday essence that fills your home with festive cheer.
Effortless Preparation: These rolls are simple to make, perfect for everyone—from seasoned chefs to holiday novices.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Loved by family and friends alike, they make an unforgettable breakfast or dessert.
Versatile Treats: Customize them by adding nuts or swapping spices for unique twists, keeping your holiday celebrations exciting.
Perfectly Comforting: Silky cream cheese frosting on warm rolls creates a luxurious experience that’s perfect for a cozy morning.
Elevate your festive dining with our Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls or pair them with a delightful Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl for a wholesome breakfast spread!
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful process of creating the perfect holiday treat with these essential ingredients!
For the Dough
- Bread Flour or All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the rolls; you can easily swap for all-purpose flour if needed.
- Fleischmann’s RapidRise Instant Yeast – Acts as the leavening agent, helping the dough rise for those fluffy rolls.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to both the dough and filling, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Salt – Enhances flavor in the dough, balancing the sweetness.
- Ground Ginger – Infuses the recipe with the signature gingerbread flavor that warms the soul.
- Warm Milk – Activates yeast; ensure it’s warmed between 120-130°F for best results.
- Eggs (Room Temperature) – Adds richness and moisture, giving life to the dough.
- Butter (Softened) – Contributes tenderness and richness to the dough.
- Molasses – Deepens the flavor and moisture in the rolls.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall taste of the dough, making it irresistibly fragrant.
For the Filling
- Brown Sugar (Filling) – Provides sweetness and additional flavor to the filling that complements the spices.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, creating that beloved cinnamon roll essence.
- Butter (Filling) – Binds the filling ingredients together, ensuring a gooey, flavorful center.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese (Frosting) – The base for a rich, creamy topping; mascarpone can be a delightful substitute for a twist in flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting, creating a luxurious spread for your rolls.
These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls will become a festive staple in your home, evoking holiday smiles and warm memories with each delicious bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a stand mixer, combine 3 cups of flour, 2 tablespoons of Fleischmann’s RapidRise Instant Yeast, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of ground ginger. Gradually add 1 cup of warm milk (120–130°F) and ¼ cup of softened butter, mixing until incorporated. Then, mix in 2 room-temperature eggs, ¼ cup of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, slowly adding the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough on high speed with a dough hook for 4 to 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, no longer sticking to your fingers. This is crucial for achieving soft, fluffy Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls. Once kneaded, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest in a warm place for about 20 minutes, allowing it to rise slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is resting, prepare the filling by mixing ½ cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, ¼ cup of softened butter, and 2 tablespoons of molasses in a small bowl until combined. This sweet, spiced mixture is what will infuse your rolls with that delightful gingerbread flavor.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
On a floured surface, roll the rested dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle, ensuring an even thickness. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, reaching all the edges. Starting from the longest side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log to maintain a neat shape. Pinch the seams to seal the roll tightly, ready for cutting.
Step 5: Cut and Arrange the Rolls
Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the log into 12 equal pieces, ensuring each roll has a generous swirl of filling. Place the cut rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them snugly together. Cover the dish with a clean towel and allow the rolls to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until they’ve doubled in size.
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls are rising. Once they’ve puffed up nicely, bake the Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls for approximately 40 minutes or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end; they should look luscious and smell heavenly!
Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together 4 ounces of cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add 1 teaspoon of molasses, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar, mixing until creamy and fluffy.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into every nook and cranny. These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls are now ready to be savored—serve warm and enjoy the festive cheer they bring!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
The joy of serving these warm, spiced rolls goes beyond their mere taste, creating an inviting breakfast experience that warms hearts.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the sweet rolls, perfect for a festive brunch spread.
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Apple Cider Mimosa: A refreshing twist on a classic mimosa, this drink’s sweet apple flavor complements the spiced gingerbread beautifully. Perfect for cheerful celebrations!
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Savory Sausage Links: Their hearty flavor balances the sweetness of the rolls, creating a satisfying and well-rounded breakfast plate.
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Sautéed Spinach: Adding a pop of green, this lightly sautéed spinach offers a fresh note and a burst of color, complementing the festive theme.
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Hot Chocolate: For a cozy touch, serve these rolls with a warm mug of hot chocolate, enhanced with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra holiday flair.
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Maple Pecan Pie: Finish the meal with a slice of this delightful pie, whose nutty-sweet flavor pairs seamlessly with the warm spiciness of the rolls.
These pairings turn a simple breakfast into a cherished memory, making the season even sweeter!
How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Allow rolls to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and prevents dryness.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Rewarm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to restore their fluffy texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave.
Reheating: Reheat rolls in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to enjoy them fresh and gooey once again.
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls: Fun Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls by trying out these delightful variations!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the warm spices beautifully. The added crunch takes every bite to new heights.
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Spiced Up: Swap ground ginger for nutmeg or allspice, changing the spice profile entirely. You may find that these variations create a delightful twist on the classic flavor.
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Pumpkin Twist: Replace molasses with pumpkin puree for a unique autumn-inspired version. The pumpkin brings its own sweetness and a lovely moist texture to the rolls.
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Chocolate Lovers: Include mini chocolate chips in the filling for added sweetness and indulgence. These rolls transform into a decadent treat perfect for special occasions.
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Maple Frosting: Substitute powdered sugar in the frosting with maple syrup for a rich, autumnal twist. The maple flavor pairs beautifully with ginger, creating a luscious topping.
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Cinnamon Swirl: Double the amount of cinnamon in the filling for a warm spicier punch that will have your taste buds singing! This twist celebrates the beloved cinnamon flavor even more.
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Zesty Layer: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest to the frosting for a refreshing citrus note. This brightens the flavors and adds a lovely contrast to the rich spiced rolls.
Each of these ideas can elevate your Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls to new festive heights. Whether hosting a holiday brunch or simply enjoying a cozy morning at home, these variations provide something for everyone. Pair these rolls with a cup of your favorite coffee or a warm mug of Warm Cinnamon Orange for an unforgettable experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough and cut it into rolls up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them after placing in the baking dish. To maintain their quality, cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before preheating your oven to 350°F. This simple step ensures you’ll have warm, fluffy rolls that are just as delicious as if made fresh that day, making your holiday breakfast a breeze!
Expert Tips for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure ingredients like eggs and milk are at room temperature for optimal yeast activation. Cold ingredients can slow down the rising process.
• Kneading Technique: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to achieve those soft and fluffy Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls. Under-kneading can result in dense rolls.
• Proper Filling Spread: Spread the filling evenly across the rolled dough to ensure every bite is deliciously spiced. Uneven spreading can lead to some rolls lacking flavor.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the rolls during baking; they should be golden brown. Overbaking can dry them out, while underbaking might leave them doughy.
• Frosting Flexibility: For a lighter frosting, consider reducing the powdered sugar or adding extra ginger for a zesty kick. Adjusting the frosting can enhance the overall flavor experience.
These tips will guide you to create the best Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls that your family will adore!
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls?
I personally recommend using bread flour for its superior structure and chewiness, but all-purpose flour will also work just fine. The key is to ensure the flour is fresh for the best results.
How should I store leftovers?
For leftover rolls, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days; just be sure to reheat them briefly before serving to regain that delightful fluffy texture.
Can I freeze Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the rolls in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough fails to rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or using cold ingredients. Always proof your yeast first by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar; let it sit until bubbly (about 5-10 minutes). Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature to create a warm environment for yeast activity.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you have allergies, be cautious with the ingredients—gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute, but ensure the rest of your ingredients are also allergy-friendly. If you’re making these for pets, keep in mind that some spices like cinnamon can be harmful in large amounts, and avoid giving them any cream cheese frosting as it can upset their stomach.
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls: A Festive Holiday Breakfast Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine flour, yeast, brown sugar, salt, and ground ginger. Gradually add warm milk and butter, mixing until incorporated. Mix in eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract, slowly adding remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on high speed for 4 to 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let the dough rest in a warm place for about 20 minutes.
- Prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, butter, and molasses in a bowl until combined.
- Roll the rested dough into a 12x16-inch rectangle and spread the filling evenly over it. Roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seams.
- Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange in a greased baking dish. Cover and allow to rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for approximately 40 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare frosting by beating cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth, then mix in molasses, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and powdered sugar.
- Spread cream cheese frosting over warm rolls and enjoy!
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