If you’ve ever dreamed of cozying up with the perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and utterly comforting baked goods, then this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls infused with warming ginger and cinnamon, layered with a rich molasses-spiced filling, and topped with a decadently smooth cream cheese frosting that sings holiday cheer in every bite. This recipe captures everything you love about gingerbread and cinnamon rolls, taking your breakfast or dessert game to an entirely new level of deliciousness you won’t want to keep to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe uses simple, essential ingredients that come together to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Every element from the molasses to the spices adds warmth and depth, while the flour and eggs ensure the dough rises beautifully and feels just right.
- 5 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour: Provides structure and chewiness to the rolls.
- 2 packets Fleischmann’s RapidRise instant yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly and perfectly fluffy.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds sweetness and a delicate caramel flavor to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger: Brings that signature gingerbread warmth right into the dough.
- 1 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and keeps the dough soft.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Provide richness and help bind the dough.
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened: Adds tenderness and buttery flavor.
- 1/4 cup molasses: The secret ingredient that adds that deep, robust gingerbread flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with sweet, fragrant notes.
- Filling ingredients: Brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, softened butter, and molasses combine to create a sticky, spicy swirl inside each roll.
- Frosting ingredients: Butter, cream cheese, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar come together to make the luscious cream cheese frosting.
How to Make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing together the flour, yeast, brown sugar, salt, and ginger in your stand mixer’s bowl fitted with the paddle attachment. This creates the aromatic base for your dough. Then add in the softened butter and warm milk to bring moisture and richness, mixing until just combined. Next up, add the eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract to deepen both flavor and texture. Switching to the dough hook, gradually incorporate the remaining flour and knead the dough on high speed for 4-5 minutes until it becomes elastic and slightly tacky but not sticky. Cover and let it rest for about 20 minutes to relax the gluten – this is the start of your perfect, tender rolls.
Step 2: Make the Filling and Roll the Dough
While the dough rests, whip up the filling by blending brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, butter, and molasses into a luscious spread. When the dough is ready, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12 by 16 inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a tiny edge free to seal your roll. Roll the dough tightly from the longest side, pinch closed both ends, and slice into 12 generous rolls. Placing them snugly in a greased baking dish, cover and let them rise again for one hour—this is when the magic of fluffy gingerbread cinnamon rolls happens.
Step 3: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the rolls for about 40 minutes, keeping an eye for that gorgeous golden-brown color on the edges and a puffed-up center. This baking time ensures each roll is soft and fully cooked with caramelized edges that add just the right bit of texture.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
As the rolls bake, blend the softened butter and cream cheese until silky smooth. Mix in molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla extract for that undeniable gingerbread pep, then gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting reaches its creamy, dreamy consistency. This frosting is the crowning glory of the Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Step 5: Frost and Serve Warm
Once the rolls come out of the oven, spread the frosting generously over the warm pastries. The frosting will melt slightly into every crevice, creating a mouthwatering glaze that’s simply irresistible. Serve these rolls warm for the ultimate cozy treat.
How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped crystallized ginger or a dusting of cinnamon on top to add some sparkle and extra spice that catches the eye and heightens flavor. You can also top with chopped pecans or walnuts for some delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a hot cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the warm spices. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait also balances the richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the rolls on a rustic wooden board surrounded by festive greenery or cinnamon sticks to create a charming centerpiece. For a fun twist, try making mini versions baked in muffin tins for individualized servings perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days; the rolls stay soft and moist, perfect for enjoying fresh flavors later.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolls after the first rise by wrapping the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then thaw and bake as usual. Alternatively, fully baked and frosted rolls can also be frozen, but for best texture, frost just before serving after reheating.
Reheating
Warm rolls gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit covered with foil to preserve moisture. A quick reheat brings back that fresh-baked softness and creamy frosting perfection.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Absolutely! While bread flour provides a chewier texture, all-purpose flour works fine and will still produce delightful rolls with a slightly softer bite.
Is there a substitute for molasses in this recipe?
If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can use dark corn syrup or a mix of brown sugar and honey, though the flavor won’t be quite as deep and complex as traditional molasses provides.
Can I make the dough by hand instead of using a stand mixer?
Yes, kneading by hand is definitely possible! Just be prepared for a bit more elbow grease, and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
How spicy are these rolls? Will kids like them?
The spice level is warm and aromatic but not overwhelming, thanks to balanced amounts of ginger and cinnamon. Most kids tend to enjoy them, especially with that sweet cream cheese frosting that softens the spices.
Can I prepare the rolls the night before and bake fresh in the morning?
Yes! After assembling the rolls, cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. Take them out to rise for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they puff up nicely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the warmth and comfort of these Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Whether you’re baking for a special holiday brunch, a weekend treat, or just because, this recipe promises smiles, buttery layers of gingerbread goodness, and that luscious frosting finish that makes every bite unforgettable. Trust me, once you try making these, they’ll become a cozy tradition in your kitchen too!
Print
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 large rolls 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls are a festive twist on classic cinnamon rolls, combining warm spices like ginger and cinnamon with a rich molasses sweetness. Perfectly soft and fluffy, they’re topped with a creamy gingerbread-flavored cream cheese frosting, making them an ideal treat for holiday mornings or any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 5 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 packets Fleischmann’s RapidRise instant yeast
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 stick butter, softened (8 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons molasses
Gingerbread Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Making the Dough: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add 3 cups of flour, yeast, brown sugar, salt, and ground ginger. Add softened butter and warm milk, mixing on medium speed until just combined. Add eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract; mix until incorporated. Switch to the dough hook, add the remaining 2 cups flour and mix on low to medium speed until flour is fully incorporated, scraping down the bowl as needed. Increase speed to high and knead for 4-5 minutes, adding 1 tablespoon flour if dough is sticky until it no longer sticks to fingers when pressed. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let dough rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.
- Making the Filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, softened butter, and molasses. Mix well until smooth.
- Forming the Rolls: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Punch down the rested dough and place on a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12×16 inch rectangle using a rolling pin and hands. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving the edges clear. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 large rolls. Place the rolls evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 hour at room temperature.
- Baking the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 40 minutes until the edges are toasty light brown and the centers puff up.
- Making the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add molasses, ground ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla extract and mix to combine. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Serving: Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately for best flavor and texture. Enjoy your delicious gingerbread cinnamon rolls warm!
Notes
- Use bread flour for a chewier roll or all-purpose flour for a softer texture.
- Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
- If dough is too sticky during kneading, add flour gradually to avoid dryness.
- You can prepare the dough a day ahead by refrigerating after the first rise, then shaping and baking next day.
- For extra festive flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the filling.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated gently before serving.
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