Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
Why Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Are a Must-Try
Gingerbread cinnamon rolls are more than just a delightful treat; they evoke warm memories of the holiday season, family gatherings, and cozy mornings. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with the essence of comfort and joy. These rolls are not just delectable; they are also versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they are sure to please everyone at your table. You can even elevate them by adding nuts or dried fruits, making them a unique twist on a classic favorite.
The Benefits of Baking with Yeast
Baking with yeast, like the Fleischmann s RapidRise® Yeast suggested in this recipe, brings a multitude of benefits to your baking experience. Yeast not only helps your dough rise, creating those soft, fluffy rolls we all love, but it also contributes to the development of complex flavors. The fermentation process of yeast enhances the overall taste of your gingerbread cinnamon rolls, giving them a depth that cannot be achieved with baking powder or soda. Additionally, yeast-based doughs are often easier to work with since they are forgiving and can be left to rise while you prepare other components, making them ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Tips for Perfecting Your Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
- Measuring Flour: Ensure you measure your flour correctly to avoid dense rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method by fluffing the flour, spooning it into the measuring cup, and leveling it off with a knife.
- Proper Rising: Make sure the environment is warm for the dough to rise effectively. If your kitchen is cold, consider placing the dough in an oven that is turned off but has the light on to create a warm space.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add extras to the filling, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor. You can also mix in some crushed ginger candies for an extra kick.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked rolls and then bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
These gingerbread cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion, but they shine especially during the holiday season. Serve them warm, drizzled with the cream cheese icing, and pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider. For a festive brunch, consider adding a fruit platter or a selection of breakfast meats to complement the sweetness of the rolls. You can also turn them into a dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, creating a delightful contrast between warm and cold that will impress your guests.
Conclusion: Embrace the Joy of Baking
There s something undeniably special about baking at home, and these gingerbread cinnamon rolls are the perfect recipe to embrace that joy. Whether you re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating an indulgent treat that brings smiles to faces. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of homemade gingerbread cinnamon rolls that are sure to become a new family favorite!
These gingerbread cinnamon rolls are bursting with classic gingerbread flavor, from the dough to the filling, topped with a decadent cream cheese icing. Perfectly soft and fluffy, they re a delightful treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 – 6 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 (4 1/2 tsp) packets Fleischmann’s RapidRise® Yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 tbsp butter, room temperature (for filling)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (for filling)
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 2 tbsp molasses (for filling)
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature (for icing)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (for icing)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp molasses (for icing)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing)
- 1 to 2 tbsp milk (for icing)
Instructions
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, brown sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Melt the butter and mix with 1 1/2 cups of warm water (it should be warmer than room temp).
- With the mixer on medium, slowly pour the butter-water mixture into the dry ingredients until fully combined.
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add 2 cups of flour, mixing until absorbed. The dough should be shaggy and sticky.
- Switch to the dough hook and add 1/2 cup of flour. Knead on medium speed until absorbed, then high for 2-3 minutes until a ball forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- For the filling, mix all filling ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
- Roll the dough into a 12x16 inch rectangle, spread the filling evenly, and roll into a log.
- Slice the log into 12 even pieces and place them in a buttered 9x13 baking pan.
- Cover and let the rolls rise at room temperature for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- For the icing, cream together the cream cheese and butter, then mix in powdered sugar, molasses, and vanilla. Thin it with milk as needed.
- Spread the icing over the warm rolls and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information is currently not available for this recipe.
Notes
This recipe is specifically made for RapidRise yeast. For overnight preparation, cover the rolls tightly and refrigerate. Let them rest at room temperature for an hour before baking.