Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls: A Festive Holiday Recipe

Gingerbread cinnamon rolls have become my favorite way to merge two beloved holiday traditions into one irresistible breakfast treat. I’m Michael, a passionate culinary artist at FoodyDish.com, and I remember the first time I attempted to combine the warming spices of gingerbread with the soft, pillowy texture of classic cinnamon rolls. It was a chilly December morning, and I wanted to create something that would fill my kitchen with that unmistakable festive aroma while delivering an unforgettable taste experience.

The result? These gingerbread cinnamon rolls became an instant hit with my family and the FoodyDish.com community. With a strong background in recipe creation and food styling, I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe to ensure it delivers both visual appeal and exceptional flavor. What makes these rolls special is the balance of molasses depth, warm spice complexity, and that signature cream cheese glaze that brings everything together.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through selecting quality ingredients, mastering the dough technique, achieving the perfect rise, and creating those Instagram-worthy swirls. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll discover tips for tender, fluffy rolls every single time.

Why This Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Works

These gingerbread cinnamon rolls represent the perfect marriage of convenience and impressive results. Here’s what makes this recipe truly special:

• Accessible ingredients: Every component uses pantry staples and readily available spices, making this recipe achievable without specialty store trips
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the dough the night before and wake up to fresh-baked rolls in just 30 minutes
• Foolproof technique: The instant yeast and detailed instructions ensure consistent, reliable results even for novice bakers
• Crowd-pleasing flavor: The gingerbread spice blend appeals to both traditional cinnamon roll lovers and those seeking festive seasonal flavors
• Adaptable for dietary needs: This base recipe can be modified for various preferences, which I’ll detail in the variations section

Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients (Makes 12 Rolls)

For the Dough:

• 3 ¼ cups (410 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 40°C / 105°F)
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (80 g) molasses
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves

For the Filling:

• ⅓ cup (75 g) brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 115 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• ¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Flour Selection Matters

All-purpose flour creates the ideal texture for these rolls, providing enough structure without making them dense. Look for unbleached varieties for the best flavor. If you’re experimenting with gluten-free options, I recommend a 1:1 baking blend, though the texture will be slightly different.

The Molasses Factor

Unsulphured molasses delivers the authentic gingerbread flavor without overwhelming bitterness. Avoid blackstrap molasses, which can be too intense. The molasses not only adds flavor but also contributes to the rolls’ soft, tender crumb and beautiful golden-brown color.

Spice Quality

Fresh spices make an enormous difference. Ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves should be aromatic when you open the container. If your spices have been sitting in the cupboard for over a year, it’s time to replace them. The potency of your spices directly impacts the final flavor profile.

Dairy Components

Whole milk creates the richest dough, but 2% works well too. For the cream cheese glaze, always use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature for the smoothest consistency. This ensures it blends seamlessly without lumps.

Ingredients & Prep for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Dough Preparation Essentials

Start by warming your milk to exactly 40°C (105°F). This temperature activates the yeast without killing it. Too hot, and you’ll destroy the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly. I use an instant-read thermometer to ensure precision.

Melted butter should be cooled slightly before adding to prevent cooking the egg. The molasses should be at room temperature for easier mixing. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until a shaggy dough forms before kneading.

The Perfect Filling Blend

The filling combines brown sugar with concentrated spices that intensify during baking. The softened butter acts as both an adhesive and adds richness. Spread it evenly, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow during rolling.

Cream Cheese Glaze Secrets

The glaze should be spreadable but not runny. If it’s too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time. If too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar. Apply the glaze while rolls are still warm so it melts slightly into the crevices, creating pockets of sweet, tangy goodness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Pre-Cooking Prep for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Begin by creating an ideal environment for yeast activity. Your kitchen should be warm (around 24-27°C). In cooler months, I turn on my oven for one minute, then turn it off and use it as a proofing box.

Combine the dry ingredients thoroughly in a large mixing bowl, ensuring the yeast distributes evenly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and molasses until smooth. This prevents the molasses from clumping.

Cooking Method for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should feel smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Place in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled. The dough is ready when you press two fingers into it and the indentation remains.

Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×18 inches. Spread softened butter, then sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture evenly. Roll tightly from the long side, keeping even tension. Use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife to cut 12 equal slices.

Doneness Check for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 22-25 minutes. The rolls are done when golden brown on top and the internal temperature reaches 88-93°C (190-200°F). They should spring back slightly when touched gently.

Resting Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Allow rolls to cool for 5-10 minutes before glazing. This prevents the glaze from completely melting off while still allowing it to soak in beautifully. Serve warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Pro Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Avoiding Dense or Dry Rolls

Never add too much flour during kneading. The dough should be tacky, not dry. Over-baking creates dry rolls, so watch them carefully during the final minutes. A light golden color is perfect; dark brown means they’ve gone too far.

Essential Tool Recommendations

A stand mixer with dough hook makes kneading effortless, though hand-kneading works beautifully too. An instant-read thermometer ensures proper milk temperature and doneness. A bench scraper helps with portioning dough evenly.

Storage & Reheating

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and warm before glazing.

Flavor Variations for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Spicy Gingerbread Twist

Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the filling for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness. Crystallized ginger pieces scattered through the filling add texture and intense ginger flavor.

Vegan Adaptation

Replace milk with oat or almond milk, butter with vegan butter, and egg with flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water). Use vegan cream cheese for the glaze. The texture remains remarkably similar to the original.

Gluten-Free Option

Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it. The rolls will be slightly more delicate but equally delicious.

Serving Suggestions for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

These gingerbread cinnamon rolls shine as a holiday breakfast centerpiece, but they’re versatile enough for any occasion. Serve them warm alongside hot coffee, chai lattes, or spiced apple cider for the ultimate cozy experience.

For brunch gatherings, pair them with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit. The savory-sweet combination creates a balanced meal. During holiday parties, arrange them on a festive platter with extra glaze on the side.

Consider serving them as dessert with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence. For beverage pairings, try spiced rum-spiked hot chocolate or a robust breakfast stout beer.

FAQs About Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the dough through the first rise, then refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling, filling, and continuing with the recipe.

My rolls didn’t rise properly. What happened? Check your yeast expiration date and ensure your milk wasn’t too hot. Cold environments also slow rising; find a warmer spot or use the oven proofing method I mentioned earlier.

Can I freeze unbaked rolls? Yes! After cutting, arrange in the baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, let rise for 45 minutes, then bake as directed.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out? Don’t overfill, and leave a small border around the edges. Roll tightly but not so tight that you squeeze the filling out. Proper sealing at the seam helps too.

Is this recipe suitable for children to help make? Definitely! Children can help measure ingredients, mix the filling, and especially enjoy rolling and cutting the dough. Just supervise the baking portion.

Conclusion

These gingerbread cinnamon rolls represent everything I love about holiday baking: the intoxicating aroma filling your home, the satisfaction of creating something beautiful from simple ingredients, and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. At FoodyDish.com, we believe every recipe should be an experience, and these rolls deliver exactly that.

Fire up your oven and try this recipe tonight! Join the 5,000+ home cooks in our community who’ve made these gingerbread cinnamon rolls a new holiday tradition. The combination of tender, spiced dough and cream cheese glaze creates magic in every bite.

Ready for more festive baking inspiration? Try our Cottage Cheese Blueberry Bake or Cottage Cheese Pineapple & Coconut Muffins next. Share your beautiful creations with #FoodyDishBakes so our community can celebrate your success!

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Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls: A Festive Holiday Recipe

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• Author: Michael
• Total Time: 1 hr 55 mins
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x

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Description

These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls bring all the cozy holiday flavors into one fluffy, spiced treat. Made with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, they’re soft, sweet, and topped with a creamy vanilla glaze  perfect for Christmas breakfast or a winter brunch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

3 ¼ cups (410 g) all-purpose flour

¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar

2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast

½ tsp salt

¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 40°C / 105°F)

¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

¼ cup (80 g) molasses

1 tsp ground ginger

1 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

¼ tsp ground cloves

🍯 For the Filling:

⅓ cup (75 g) brown sugar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground ginger

¼ tsp ground cloves

3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

🍶 For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

115 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened

2 tbsp butter, softened

¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar

1–2 tbsp milk or cream

½ tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, whisk flour, brown sugar, yeast, salt, and spices. In another bowl, mix warm milk, butter, molasses, and egg. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

3. Prepare filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

4. Shape the rolls: Roll dough into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread softened butter over it, then sprinkle evenly with the filling mixture. Roll up tightly from the long side and cut into 12 equal slices.

5. Second rise: Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

6. Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 22–25 minutes, until golden brown and fluffy.

7. Make the glaze: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, mixing until creamy.

8. Serve: Spread glaze over warm rolls and enjoy that festive gingerbread aroma filling your kitchen!

Notes

For extra spice, increase cinnamon or ginger slightly.

You can make the dough a day ahead and let it rise overnight in the fridge.

Swap the glaze for a drizzle of maple icing for a twist.

These rolls taste amazing warm with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa!

• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Holiday Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls, Holiday Breakfast, Molasses Rolls, Christmas Baking, Spiced Rolls