Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy and irresistibly fragrant this holiday season, you’re going to adore this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. I absolutely love how these rolls come out soft and fluffy, swirled with spiced gingerbread flavors, and topped with a luscious molasses cream cheese frosting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, your family will be asking for them year after year—just like mine does every Christmas morning!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This combination of ingredients might sound like your classic cinnamon roll, but the addition of gingerbread spices and molasses makes all the difference. When picking your spices, fresh and high-quality ones really shine through in this recipe!

• Active dry yeast: Gives the dough that perfect rise and fluffiness; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
• Warm water: Around 115°F to activate the yeast without killing it—too hot or cold and you’ll have trouble with the dough puffing up.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough; using the right amount and measuring properly keeps your rolls tender.
• Granulated sugar: Provides subtle sweetness for the dough itself.
• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a slight caramel tone in the dough.
• Salt: Enhances flavor balance throughout.
• Ground cinnamon: A classic cinnamon roll must-have for that warm spice punch.
• Whole milk: Makes the dough tender and rich; room temperature is best.
• Unsalted butter (melted and room temp): Melted butter in the dough, softened for the filling and frosting, gives delicious richness.
• Vanilla extract: Brings depth to both dough and frosting flavors.
• Large eggs: One whole egg and one yolk provide structure and softness.
• Dark brown sugar: Packed into the filling to create a sticky, caramel-like interior.
• Orange zest: Adds brightness that beautifully contrasts with the deep spices.
• Ground ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom: The signature gingerbread spice mix that makes these rolls something special.
• Full-fat cream cheese: For that creamy, tangy frosting you’ll want to slather on top.
• Molasses: Gives the frosting a rich, slightly smoky note—don’t skip this!
• Confectioners’ sugar: Makes the frosting smooth and just sweet enough.

Variations

While I love the classic version, I’m all about making this recipe your own. You can tweak the spice levels or switch up the frosting to suit your mood or dietary needs. Don’t be shy about experimenting—it only makes this recipe more fun!

• Spice it Up: I sometimes add a little extra ginger or swap out allspice for cardamom to highlight different notes; it’s always a hit!
• Dairy-Free Version: Using coconut cream cheese and vegan butter works surprisingly well for those avoiding dairy.
• Maple Frosting: Replace molasses with maple syrup in the frosting for a sweeter, autumn-inspired twist that my friends rave about.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for a delightful crunch—my family goes crazy for this upgrade.

How to Make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Proof the Yeast and Mix the Dough

Start by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm water (about 115°F). You’ll want to let it sit for around 5 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbly—that means it’s alive and ready. While that’s happening, combine your dry ingredients like flour, sugars, salt, and cinnamon. Then add in the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture and mix well. Knead your dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and slightly tacky. I learned the hard way that kneading too little leads to dense rolls, so be patient—it’s worth it!

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This step is crucial for that perfect fluffy texture. I like to preheat my oven to the lowest temp, turn it off, and let the dough rise inside—it keeps things cozy without overheating.

Step 3: Create the Spiced Filling

Mix together dark brown sugar, orange zest, all your gingerbread spices, salt, and softened butter until you get a thick, spreadable paste. The orange zest really brightens the flavor here! Spread this mixture evenly over your rolled-out dough, and prepare to roll it up for those perfectly swirled cinnamon rolls.

Step 4: Shape and Second Rise

Roll out your dough into a large rectangle, spread the filling, and then roll it tightly from the long edge. Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them in your prepared pan. Cover again and let them rise for another 45 minutes—this second rise is when your kitchen starts smelling divine!

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your gingerbread cinnamon rolls in a 350°F oven for about 25-30 minutes until they’re golden on top and cooked through. Watch carefully toward the end so they don’t over-brown—I keep a close eye and tent them with foil if needed. Your patience here will reward you with soft, tender rolls every time.

Step 6: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat cream cheese, butter, molasses, whole milk, vanilla, salt, and sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy. The molasses adds a wonderful depth that takes your frosting to the next level. Once your rolls come out warm from the oven, slather on the frosting so it melts into every crevice—pure bliss.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I love to sprinkle a little freshly grated orange zest or a pinch of crushed crystallized ginger on top of the frosting for a bright, zingy finish. It’s subtle but elevates the overall experience, especially when serving guests.

Side Dishes

Pair these indulgent rolls with a simple cup of black coffee or chai tea to balance the sweetness. For brunch, I often serve a fresh fruit salad with citrus segments or a light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special occasions, I’ve arranged the cinnamon rolls in a wreath shape on a decorative platter, then garnished with edible fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs—such a showstopper! You can also drizzle extra molasses or drizzle a sprinkle of crushed pecans for texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These rolls keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. I usually cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep moisture in—this keeps them soft and just as tasty as freshly baked.

Freezing

I often freeze unbaked rolls after shaping but before the second rise. Just wrap them well and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw and let them rise before baking. You can also freeze baked rolls (without frosting) by wrapping each one individually—just reheat and frost before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the rolls in a 300°F oven for about 10-12 minutes covered loosely with foil to warm through without drying out. Then, I add a fresh dollop of cream cheese frosting. This method keeps them soft and delicious like freshly made.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe holds a special place in my heart—and on my family table every holiday season. There’s something so cozy and comforting about that blend of spiced dough and creamy frosting that just makes you slow down, take a deep breath, and savor the moment. I can’t recommend this recipe enough if you want to fill your home with joy (and delicious smells!). Go ahead, try it, and let me know how your loved ones respond—I bet you’ll be making these for years to come!

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