Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Imagine waking up to the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread swirled with gooey cinnamon sugar, all wrapped in a fluffy roll and topped with creamy frosting. These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a holiday treat they’re a cozy, spiced hug for your taste buds, perfect for chilly mornings or festive brunches.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from a craving for both cinnamon rolls and classic gingerbread cookies. On a snowy December morning, I decided to merge the two, hoping for something comforting and nostalgic. The result was magical soft, sweet rolls with a whisper of molasses and warm spices that instantly reminded me of childhood kitchens and holiday mornings. It’s now a must-bake in my family every winter.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Cinnamon rolls trace their roots back to Sweden, where they’re known as “kanelbullar.” Gingerbread, on the other hand, has been around since the Middle Ages, originally baked in Europe with spices and molasses to preserve the bread. Combining these two classics is a modern twist that brings together Northern European baking traditions in the coziest way possible. Today, gingerbread cinnamon rolls are a festive favorite across many homes during the holidays.

Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

There’s so much to adore about these sweet, spiced rolls:

Versatile: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they fit any festive occasion.

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like flour, sugar, cinnamon, and molasses.

Quick and Easy: Minimal active time, especially if prepped the night before.

Customizable: Adjust spices, add nuts or dried fruit, or change the frosting.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at any holiday gathering or family breakfast.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before and baking fresh in the morning.

Great for Leftovers: They reheat beautifully and stay soft for days.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Start with a little know-how and these rolls will turn out bakery-worthy every time:

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth dough and even rise.
• Let the dough rest overnight in the fridge to develop deeper flavor.
• Use dark molasses for a rich, authentic gingerbread taste.
• Don’t skimp on the frosting it balances the spice with sweet creaminess.
• Warm them slightly before serving to make the frosting extra gooey.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you roll up your sleeves, gather these essentials:

Mixing Bowls: For dough, filling, and frosting preparation.

Stand Mixer: Speeds up kneading, though you can knead by hand too.

Rolling Pin: Essential for evenly rolling the dough.

9×13 Baking Dish: Holds the rolls snugly as they rise and bake.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for baking.

Spatula and Bench Scraper: For spreading the filling and cutting the rolls.

Ingredients in Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

The magic starts with warm spices and continues all the way through creamy frosting:

1. All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups Forms the structure of the rolls.
2. Whole Milk: 1 cup, warm Activates the yeast and adds moisture.
3. Active Dry Yeast: 2¼ teaspoons Helps the dough rise.
4. Brown Sugar: ½ cup Adds sweetness and moisture to the dough.
5. Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons, softened Adds richness to both dough and filling.
6. Eggs: 2 large Binds the dough and gives a soft crumb.
7. Molasses: ⅓ cup Gives the rolls that deep, signature gingerbread flavor.
8. Salt: 1 teaspoon Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
9. Ground Ginger: 1 tablespoon The heart of the gingerbread spice.
10. Ground Cinnamon: 2 tablespoons Warm and fragrant, a classic filling.
11. Ground Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon Adds depth and complexity.
12. Cream Cheese: 4 ounces For the rich, tangy frosting.
13. Powdered Sugar: 1 cup Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
14. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon Adds a warm, aromatic note.
15. Sugared Cranberries (optional): For a festive touch on top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re missing a thing or two:

Whole Milk: Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Molasses: Replace with dark corn syrup or maple syrup for a milder flavor.
Cream Cheese: Try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Brown Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or white sugar with a splash of molasses.
Butter: Use vegan butter or margarine for dairy-free rolls.

Ingredient Spotlight

Molasses: This dark, syrupy liquid gives the rolls their signature gingerbread depth. It’s robust, slightly bitter, and balances sweet elements beautifully.

Ground Ginger: The soul of this recipe. It brings the warming spice that defines gingerbread and adds a gentle heat that complements the sweetness.

Instructions for Making Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Let’s roll literally. These instructions will guide you every step of the way.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   If baking right away, preheat your oven to 350°F. If refrigerating overnight, skip this step for now.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy. Add eggs, brown sugar, molasses, softened butter, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Roll out dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread with softened butter and sprinkle generously with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll tightly from the long side, then cut into 12 even rolls and arrange in the dish.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes (or refrigerate overnight and bring to room temp before baking). Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls and garnish with sugared cranberries if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve warm with a cozy drink, and enjoy the perfect blend of gingerbread spice and cinnamon swirl.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These rolls are fluffy and pillowy on the inside with a lightly crisp, golden top. The cinnamon-sugar filling melts into every swirl, while the frosting adds creamy sweetness. The molasses and spices layer in deep, complex flavors that scream “holiday.”

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Start your baking journey with these helpful hints:

• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot like inside your (off) oven with the light on.
• Use dental floss to slice the rolls cleanly without squishing them.
• Add orange zest to the frosting for a citrusy twist.

What to Avoid

Avoiding these missteps will ensure cinnamon roll success:

• Overheating the milk: Too hot and it’ll kill the yeast. Aim for warm, not hot.
• Under-kneading the dough: You need about 8–10 minutes of kneading for the right texture.
• Overbaking: Check rolls at the 25-minute mark. They should be golden but still soft.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 360

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (+ optional overnight rest)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare these rolls the night before, cover them tightly, and let them rise slowly in the fridge. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for 45 minutes before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm and gooey.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Serve these warm from the oven with extra frosting, a hot cup of coffee, or a festive chai latte. They’re perfect on a holiday brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and scrambled eggs.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got a few rolls left? Try these ideas:

• Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding: Cube and bake with a custard mix for a decadent dessert.
• French Toast Bake: Soak in eggs and milk, then bake for a breakfast casserole.
• Holiday Trifle: Layer with whipped cream and berries in a glass dish.

Additional Tips

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch inside the filling.
• Want a flavor punch? Mix a little espresso powder into the dough.
• Use parchment paper under the rolls for easy cleanup.

Make It a Showstopper

Top each frosted roll with a sugared cranberry or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for an Instagram-worthy finish. Serve them on a holiday platter with festive greenery around the edges.

Variations to Try

• Maple Glazed: Swap cream cheese frosting for a sweet maple glaze.
• Orange Spice: Add orange zest to the dough and frosting.
• Chocolate Gingerbread: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside before rolling.
• Apple Cinnamon: Add thin apple slices to the filling.
• Nutty Delight: Mix crushed pecans into the brown sugar cinnamon mix.

FAQ’s

1. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, after assembling the rolls, freeze them before the second rise. Thaw and let rise before baking.

2. What can I use instead of molasses?

Maple syrup or dark corn syrup works in a pinch but molasses gives the best gingerbread flavor.

3. Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese.

4. Do I have to let the dough rest overnight?

No, but overnight resting improves flavor and makes morning prep easier.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Try a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, though texture may vary slightly.

6. How long do they stay fresh?

Up to 3 days at room temp or 5 in the fridge, but best when fresh.

7. What’s the best way to reheat them?

Microwave for 20 seconds or warm in a low oven until soft.

8. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can, but it may affect sweetness and texture slightly.

9. Is there a substitute for eggs?

Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan version.

10. Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Cloves, cardamom, or allspice add depth to the flavor.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy, festive treat, these Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls deliver. Sweet, spiced, fluffy, and dripping in frosting, they’ll quickly become a holiday tradition in your kitchen. Trust me, they’re worth every bite.

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