Name: Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 2 h 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup warm water (60mL); 2 and ½ Tablespoons granulated sugar (32g); 1 and ⅛ teaspoons dry active yeast (3.5g); ¼ cup milk (60mL), any kind; 2 Tablespoons unsulphered molasses (30mL), do not use black strap; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 large egg; 2 and ½ cups all purpose flour (300g), measured properly; 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (57g), softened to room temperature and cut into pieces; ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g); ¼ cup firmly packed light brown sugar (50g); 1 and ½ Tablespoons ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (28g), melted; 1 Tablespoon unsulphered molasses (15mL), do not use black strap; 2 ounces full fat block cream cheese (57g), softened to room temperature; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (28g), softened to room temperature; ½ Tablespoon unsulphered molasses (15mL), do not use black strap; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¾ cups powdered sugar (90g); Pinch of salt

There’s nothing quite like the warm, spicy aroma filling your kitchen when you make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These rolls are a cozy twist on a classic favorite, perfect for sharing those special moments over breakfast or brunch.

The image shows a close-up of three soft cinnamon rolls placed together, each covered with a thick layer of light brown frosting that has a creamy and smooth texture with some swirls visible. The cinnamon rolls have a rich golden-brown color, with darker cinnamon spirals peeking through the frosting. A woman's hand gently holds the lowest cinnamon roll on the left side of the image. The rolls are sitting on crumpled parchment paper, and the background has a white marbled texture. A piece of red ribbon is partially visible near the bottom of the woman's hand photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

What really makes this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe stand out is the balance between cozy warmth and sweet indulgence. I can't get enough of how the molasses-infused dough and spices dance perfectly with the tangy cream cheese frosting—guaranteed to make your mornings feel extra special.

Warm holiday flavors: The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg gives these rolls a comforting depth you’ll want year-round.
Molasses magic: Unsulphered molasses adds a rich sweetness without being overpowering, creating that authentic gingerbread taste.
Perfectly soft dough: The dough kneads up elastic and tender, making rolling and slicing a breeze while baking into fluffy rolls.
Cream cheese frosting: The molasses frosting ties it all together with a luscious finish that’s tangy, smooth, and irresistibly spreadable.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe plays a part in creating that perfect combination of flavors and textures. Using unsulphered molasses, fresh spices, and quality cream cheese ensures each bite delivers rich, balanced taste.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl with warm water, a few sprigs of fresh yeast granules beside it, a small white ceramic bowl holding golden unsulphered molasses, a neat pile of pale all purpose flour next to a stick of softened unsalted butter cut into chunks, a whole large brown egg with a clean shell, a small white ceramic bowl with granulated sugar, another small white ceramic bowl containing light brown packed sugar, a small white ceramic bowl filled with ground cinnamon, a small white ceramic bowl with ground ginger, a small white ceramic bowl with ground nutmeg, a small white ceramic bowl holding melted unsalted butter, a block of creamy full fat cream cheese, and a pinch of salt on the white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Warm water: Activates the yeast gently to create that fluffy dough texture.
Granulated sugar: Helps feed the yeast and adds subtle sweetness.
Dry active yeast: The key to a light, risen dough – make sure it’s fresh and proof it properly.
Milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the dough.
Unsulphered molasses: Provides the signature gingerbread flavor without the bitterness of blackstrap molasses.
Spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg): The aromatic trio that brings warmth and holiday cheer to each roll.
Egg: Enriches the dough and helps bind it together.
All-purpose flour: Use a proper measurement technique for the right dough consistency.
Unsalted butter: Softened for mixing in the dough and melted for the filling, it adds richness and moisture.
Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
Cream cheese: Full-fat block cream cheese gives the frosting its signature tang and creamy texture.
Powdered sugar: For smooth, spreadable frosting sweetness.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the spices.

📝

Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love to experiment with this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe by adding a few of my own twists – it’s like making the recipe your own little tradition. You can tweak the spices or even swap out molasses for a little honey to suit your taste.

Variation: Sometimes I add chopped crystallized ginger into the filling for an extra zing—it adds a pleasant chew and a bright pop against the warm spices.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based butter and cream cheese; just be sure they're softened for easy mixing.
Gluten-Free: Try a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but watch your dough texture, as gluten-free doughs can be a bit trickier to handle.
Extra Nuts: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling gives a delightful crunch and deeper flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a cinnamon roll with a thick layer of light brown creamy frosting on top, which has a smooth texture with slight swirls. The roll itself has a golden-brown color with visible dark cinnamon swirls inside, creating a marbled effect. The cinnamon roll is partially torn into pieces, exposing its soft and fluffy inside with light and dark brown shades where cinnamon is concentrated. A silver fork holds a piece of the cinnamon roll, with some frosting on it. The roll is placed on a white plate with a slightly rough texture, sitting on a white marbled surface with blurred green foliage in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Activate the Yeast for a Fluffy Dough

I always start by pouring warm water into a large bowl, then sprinkling in the yeast and a touch of sugar. You want to whisk it and let it sit quietly until it becomes bubbly and alive—this usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. It’s a simple step but crucial; if your yeast doesn’t foam, your rolls won’t rise properly!

Step 2: Build the Dough with Molasses & Spices

Once your yeast is ready, add milk, molasses, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and the egg. Whisk everything together so the spices distribute evenly—this is where all that cozy gingerbread flavor begins developing.

Step 3: Flour and Butter—Knead to Perfection

Next, gradually add flour by the cupful, stirring gently. When the dough starts to come together, add the softened butter in pieces so it blends in smoothly. I switch to kneading the dough on a lightly floured surface, working it for 8 to 10 minutes. The goal is a smooth, elastic dough that feels like PlayDoh—not sticky but soft and pliable.

Step 4: Prepare the Spiced Filling

While the dough takes a 10-minute rest, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg for the filling. This dry blend packs all the warm flavors we're after.

Step 5: Roll Out and Spread the Filling

Roll your dough into a rectangle—don’t rush this, the dough is elastic and needs some gentle coaxing. Then, mix melted butter with molasses and brush it on, leaving a little border. Sprinkle your spicy sugar mix evenly over the top—it’s like coating the dough with delicious anticipation.

Step 6: Roll Up, Slice, and Rise

Starting from one long edge, roll tightly into a log. Use your hands to gently shape the ends, then slice into six even rolls with a serrated knife. Don’t fret if a little filling squishes out—it just adds to the rustic charm. Place the rolls cut side down in your prepared pan, cover, and let them rise for about 1.5 hours until nice and puffy.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden & Cozy

Now, bake at 350ºF (177ºC) for about 28 to 32 minutes until they just start to brown. Keep an eye on them—if they brown too quickly, a loose foil tent helps keep things soft and pretty. Once baked, let them cool for 15 minutes before frosting.

Step 8: Whip Up That Molasses Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese, butter, ground cinnamon, and molasses together until silky smooth. Then slow down the mixer and add powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until glossy and luscious. Slather this frosting on the warm rolls—you'll see them shine with that irresistible finish.

Top Tip

Over the years, I’ve learned how much these little pointers can make or break the experience when preparing the Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. A little patience goes a long way, especially when working with yeast and delicate dough.

Check Your Yeast Temperature: Make sure your water is warm but not hot—about 110°F (43°C) feels just right to the touch. Too hot can kill the yeast, too cool and it won’t activate properly.
Knead with Care: Don’t skimp on kneading time. The perfect dough isn’t sticky but still soft, so add flour slowly to avoid tough rolls.
Let Them Rise in a Warm Spot: I usually preheat my oven to 200°F for a couple of minutes, then turn it off before placing the rolls inside to rise. This cozy environment speeds up the process.
Frost While Warm: Spread the cream cheese frosting on the rolls while they’re warm, but not hot, so it melts just enough to create that dreamy icing swirl.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I like to keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top or a few fresh cranberries scattered around the platter for a festive touch. Sometimes, I sprinkle finely chopped pecans over the frosting for a little crunch that complements the soft rolls beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a hot cup of spiced coffee or chai tea for the ultimate cozy breakfast. If you’re serving brunch, crispy bacon or a simple scrambled egg dish balances the sweetness nicely. Fresh fruit always works well too—try sliced pears or oranges.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I arrange the rolls in a large round pan like a wreath, adding some sprigs of fresh rosemary and edible flowers around the edges. For birthdays, I’ve even drizzled melted dark chocolate over the frosting for a fun twist. Presentation really adds to the delight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture, I recommend moving them to the fridge if you plan to keep them up to five days to prevent spoilage.

Freezing

I’ve had great success freezing both baked and unbaked rolls. For baked rolls, wrap them tightly and freeze up to 3 months. To freeze unbaked rolls, you can either parbake for 10 minutes, cool, freeze, and then finish baking later, or freeze after slicing and thaw overnight before baking. Both methods preserve that fresh-from-the-oven flavor.

Reheating

I reheat refrigerated or thawed rolls in the microwave for 8-10 seconds, which warms them just enough without drying them out. For a little extra indulgence, I sometimes pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to revive some of their original softness and slight crisp on the edges.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls through the first rise and assembly, then refrigerate overnight. When ready, let them come to room temperature and rise before baking. This actually enhances the flavor as the dough develops more complexity.

What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. Avoid scooping directly with the cup, which packs too much flour and can dry out the dough. Accurate measuring keeps the rolls tender and fluffy.

Can I substitute molasses with something else?

I recommend using unsulphered molasses for that authentic gingerbread flavor, but if you need a substitute, honey or maple syrup can work in a pinch. Keep in mind the flavor profile will be milder and less spicy. Avoid blackstrap molasses as it’s too bitter for this recipe.

How do I prevent the cinnamon rolls from over-browning?

If you notice the rolls browning too quickly but they're not baked through, loosely tent them with foil halfway through baking. This helps them stay soft and cook evenly without burning the tops.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is one of those special kitchen moments you’ll cherish. The scent alone invites smiles, and the taste brings comfort like an old friend. Whether it’s a chilly morning, a holiday celebration, or just because, these rolls have become a favorite in my home, and I’m sure they’ll be in yours too once you try making them!