why make this recipe
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect blend of warmth and spice. They make the perfect treat for colder months or special occasions. The combination of ginger and cinnamon gives these rolls a unique holiday flavor. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the soft, fluffy texture along with a sweet, creamy frosting. These rolls can brighten up any breakfast or brunch table and are a delightful way to impress your friends and family.
how to make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
- 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
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 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
Directions:
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, instant yeast, brown sugar, salt, and ground ginger.
- In another bowl, combine the warm milk, eggs, softened butter, molasses, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it is smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Making the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Spread the softened butter on top of the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over it.
- Roll up the dough tightly and cut it into individual rolls.
Making the Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, molasses, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.
how to serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
Serve these rolls warm, drizzled with the cream cheese frosting. They are best enjoyed fresh but taste great for breakfast or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
how to store Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
To store leftover rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them to keep them fresh longer. When ready to eat, warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
tips to make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
- For a richer flavor, let the dough rise overnight in the refrigerator.
- Ensure your milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
- If you like a stronger ginger flavor, you can increase the amount of ground ginger slightly.
variation
You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra crunch. You might also try adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different twist.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting. Adjust the sweetness to taste.