Name: Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Eggnog Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 142 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Whole Milk (Warm (about 110°F)); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Ensure freshness); 1/4 cup Granulated White Sugar (Avoid substitutions); 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute for gluten-free if needed); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Allspice; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 large Eggs (Or flax eggs for vegan); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1/2 cup Molasses (Can substitute with dark corn syrup); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be used); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (Packed tightly); 1/4 cup Eggnog or Heavy Cream (Milk mixed with nutmeg as a substitute); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Substitute with dairy-free if needed); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (No substitutes for best texture); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg

The sweet and spicy aroma of gingerbread wafting through the kitchen is an invitation to holiday cheer that I can’t resist. These Christmas gingerbread cinnamon rolls combine the warm comforts of traditional cinnamon rolls with the festive flavors of the season, creating a delicious treat that turns any morning into a celebration. With quick prep and an indulgent eggnog cream cheese frosting, these rolls are not only a crowd-pleaser but also make for a delightful, comforting breakfast or dessert for friends and family. Whether you’re gathering around the tree or enjoying a cozy brunch, the gooeyness and warmth of these rolls will wrap you in a blanket of nostalgia. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into this holiday delight?

Why make gingerbread cinnamon rolls?

Holiday Cheer: The enchanting aroma of gingerbread fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings.
Indulgent Frosting: Topped with creamy eggnog frosting, these rolls elevate your breakfast game to new festive heights.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll impress loved ones without stress – perfect for the busy holiday season!
Soft & Gooey: Each bite features a delightful blend of spices and sweetness, making them irresistible for any occasion.
Crowd Favorite: These gingerbread cinnamon rolls are ideal for sharing, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile. Try these special rolls alongside a festive Coast Shrimp Rolls for a delightful holiday brunch!

Christmas Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

• Get ready to create festive magic in your kitchen with these delicious and aromatic rolls!

For the Dough

Whole Milk – Provides moisture for the dough; warm (about 110°F) to activate yeast. Substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Active Dry Yeast – Essential for dough rising; ensure freshness for a perfect rise. Instant yeast can be used; adjust the process if needed.
Granulated White Sugar – Aids in yeast activation and balances sweetness. Avoid substitutions unless you’re eliminating sugar.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the rolls; for a gluten-free version, opt for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice, Cloves) – These spices create the signature gingerbread flavor; no substitutes recommended to maintain authentic taste.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness; no substitutions necessary.
Eggs – Add structure and richness to the dough; for a vegan alternative, use flax eggs in a 1:1 ratio.
Unsalted Butter – Provides flavor and tenderness; ensure it’s softened for best results. Margarine or coconut oil can be used as substitutes.
Molasses – The key ingredient for that deep gingerbread flavor; can be replaced with dark corn syrup or honey for variations.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; almond extract can be used for a different aroma.

For the Filling

Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling and caramel; pack it tightly for the best results. No substitutions for optimal flavor.
Eggnog or Heavy Cream – Used between rolls for moistening; milk mixed with nutmeg works as a substitute if eggnog is unavailable.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – The creamy base for frosting, pairs beautifully with eggnog; substitute with dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens frosting, ensuring a creamy consistency; no substitutes for best texture.
Ground Nutmeg – A lovely addition to the frosting for an extra festive flavor.

Are you excited to whip up these Christmas gingerbread cinnamon rolls? Their delightful flavors will surely make your holiday gatherings unforgettable!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Bloom Yeast
Begin by warming the whole milk to about 110°F, which will help activate the yeast. In a bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Allow this mixture to sit for 10 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and foamy, indicating that the yeast is alive and ready to rise in your gingerbread cinnamon rolls.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves), and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs, softened unsalted butter, molasses, and the bloomed yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients come together to form a sticky dough, setting you on the path to delicious gingerbread cinnamon rolls.

Step 3: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead using your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 7 to 10 minutes. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which is essential for the perfect texture in your gingerbread cinnamon rolls. Once ready, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Make Caramel Sauce
While the dough is rising, prepare the caramel sauce. In a medium bowl, mix softened butter, light brown sugar, ground spices, molasses, honey, vanilla extract, eggnog or cream, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy, then spread it evenly in the bottom of a greased baking dish, ready to welcome your fluffy gingerbread cinnamon rolls.

Step 5: Prepare Filling
In another bowl, combine softened butter, light brown sugar, molasses, ground spices, and a dash of salt. Mix until it becomes a spreadable paste. This delicious filling will add sweet, spicy flavor to your gingerbread cinnamon rolls, creating an irresistible center that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Step 6: Assemble Rolls
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the risen dough into an 18×12-inch rectangle. Evenly spread the filling mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape and slice it into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss to keep them intact. Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish, pouring eggnog or cream between them, and let them rise for about an hour.

Step 7: Preheat Oven
About 10 minutes before your gingerbread cinnamon rolls rise to perfection, preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature is ideal for creating that golden-brown exterior while keeping the interior soft and gooey, ensuring a delightful experience for your holiday gathering.

Step 8: Bake
Once the rolls have risen beautifully, bake them in the preheated oven for 29 to 32 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them, and if they start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The delightful aroma of gingerbread will fill your kitchen during baking!

Step 9: Prepare Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the creamy eggnog frosting. In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter until fluffy, then add cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, eggnog, and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg until the frosting reaches a velvety consistency, ready to slather over your warm gingerbread cinnamon rolls.

Step 10: Frost Rolls
Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Generously spread the eggnog frosting over the warm rolls, letting it melt slightly into the grooves for an extra gooey treat. Your gingerbread cinnamon rolls with creamy eggnog frosting are now ready to dazzle your holiday table!

What to Serve with Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Nothing complements the irresistible sweetness of these rolls like a cozy winter spread!

Hot Coffee: Its rich, robust flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweet, spiced rolls, making each bite even more comforting.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, fruity notes of apple cider bring out the gingerbread spices, creating a festive atmosphere.
Cranberry Orange Salad: This fresh, zesty salad adds a bright balance to the richness of the rolls, making for a refreshing bite.
Creamy Eggnog: Perfectly paired with your gingerbread cinnamon rolls, eggnog enhances the festive spirit while echoing the frosting’s flavor.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle over each roll can elevate the dessert aspect, offering an extra layer of luxury to the delicious treat.
Chocolate Fondue: For a fun twist, serve warm chocolate for dipping—it’s a delicious contrast to the spices and sweetness of the rolls!
Mixed Berry Compote: The tartness of berries provides a vibrant contrast that refreshes the palate after every sweet morsel.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola can add a delightful crunchy texture, giving each bite an extra dimension to enjoy.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream melts perfectly over warm rolls, turning them into a delightful dessert experience.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This indulgent drink pairs sweetly with the spiciness of the rolls, making it a perfect holiday beverage.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Airtight Container: Keep leftover gingerbread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their freshness and gooey texture.

Refrigeration: If you prefer, refrigerate the rolls for up to a week. Just remember to reheat them before serving for that warm, delightful experience.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted gingerbread cinnamon rolls. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, remove the desired number of rolls and thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas gingerbread cinnamon rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavor even on the busiest mornings! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions until you have rolled and sliced the dough, then cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven. This gentle warming helps them rise beautifully and gives you that just-baked taste, ensuring that they are just as delicious as if made fresh!

Variations & Substitutions for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on these delightful gingerbread cinnamon rolls, personalizing them to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting to enjoy a vegan-friendly treat.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these rolls accessible for gluten-sensitive friends.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to your filling for a delightful crunch that elevates the texture of each bite.
Spiced Variation: Swap out some of the spices in the dough with pumpkin spice for a unique twist that captures fall flavors.
Minty Fresh: Enhance the frosting with peppermint extract along with the eggnog for a refreshing twist, perfect for festive occasions.
Fruity Sweetness: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples into the filling for added sweetness and a pop of color in your rolls.
Sweet Surprise: Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra-decadent treat that pairs wonderfully with the gingerbread flavors.
Savory Spin: For a non-traditional take, add crumbled sausage or bacon to the filling, balancing the spices with a savory kick that could be served at brunch.

While you’re at it, why not pair these gingerbread cinnamon rolls with a festive side like Coast Shrimp Rolls? The combination is sure to bring smiles to your holiday gathering!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your active dry yeast is fresh; it should foam after blooming. If it doesn’t, start over for perfect gingerbread cinnamon rolls.
Use Dental Floss: For cleanly slicing the rolls, use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife. This prevents squishing them and keeps their beautiful shape intact.
Adjust Liquids Carefully: If your dough feels too wet, gradually add flour in small increments until the consistency feels just right—not too sticky, yet pliable.
Warm Environment for Rising: Optimize dough rising by placing it in a warm spot—like an oven with just the light on—this will help your rolls double in volume efficiently.
Don’t Rush Frosting: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before frosting them with the eggnog cream cheese mixture; this helps the frosting melt into the rolls for a delicious finish.

Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ripe ingredients for my gingerbread cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, aim for fresh active dry yeast that’s not expired; it should foam during blooming. Look for whole milk that’s slightly warm (about 110°F) to activate the yeast. The spices should be aromatic, and molasses should be free of any lumps, ensuring your rolls have the best flavor.

How should I store leftover gingerbread cinnamon rolls?
Very! Once cooled, keep your leftover gingerbread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week, just remember to reheat before serving for that gooey texture.

Can I freeze gingerbread cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each unfrosted roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the rolls overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

What do I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
No worries! If your dough doesn’t rise, first check the freshness of your yeast; it should foam after blooming. If it doesn’t, you may need to start over with fresh yeast. Ensure your dough is kept in a warm area while rising, as colder environments can slow the process. If it feels too dry, you can sprinkle in a bit of warm water and knead until smooth.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This recipe includes common allergens like gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To cater to vegan diets, substitute with flax eggs (1:1 ratio), almond or oat milk for dairy, and dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting. Always check for cross-contamination if those are concerns.

How long can I keep gingerbread cinnamon rolls in the fridge?
Definitely! If stored properly in an airtight container, gingerbread cinnamon rolls can last in the fridge for about a week. Just make sure to warm them up before serving to bring back that delicious gooeyness. Enjoy!