Name: Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses 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); 2 Tablespoons unsulphered molasses; 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); 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (57g); 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, melted (28g); 1 Tablespoon unsulphered molasses; 2 ounces full fat block cream cheese, softened (57g); 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (28g); ½ Tablespoon unsulphered molasses; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¾ cups powdered sugar (90g); Pinch of salt

There’s something about the warmth of spices and the rich depth of molasses that just sings comfort. The Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe is that cozy hug in pastry form, perfect for chilly mornings or a special weekend treat. Soft, tender rolls loaded with festive spices and topped with a luscious molasses cream cheese frosting make this an absolute joy to bake and share.

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 Molasses Frosting Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe blends the nostalgic flavor of gingerbread with the sticky, sweet pull of cinnamon rolls, but what really makes it shine is the rich molasses cream cheese frosting. I’ve made many cinnamon rolls, but the molasses adds a depth you won’t forget. Plus, it’s easier than you think to get bakery-worthy results at home.

Comforting Flavors: The combination of warm spices and molasses feels like holiday magic any time of year.
Rich Frosting: The molasses cream cheese frosting is a unique, tangy-sweet finish that’s a perfect counterbalance to the spiced rolls.
Fun to Make: The dough is easy to knead and roll out, making this a rewarding project even if you’re a beginner baker.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the dough or even freeze the rolls, so you’re ready for a quick fresh bake whenever you want.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in the Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe plays a role in building those complex layers of flavor and texture. From the yeast that gives you pillowy softness to the warm spices that evoke that gingerbread nostalgic feeling, here’s a little rundown so you’ll feel confident shopping and baking.

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; make sure it’s not too hot to avoid killing your yeast!
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds sweetness to balance spices.
Dry active yeast: The rising power making these rolls tender and fluffy.
Milk (any kind): Adds moisture and richness—whole milk works best but you can substitute.
Unsulphered molasses: The heart of gingerbread flavor, use light or mild molasses for the best taste.
Salt: Enhances overall flavors and balances sweetness.
Ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg: Classic warming spices that define the gingerbread profile.
Egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your rolls; be sure to measure properly for the right dough texture.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter folded in melts into layers, enriching the dough and filling.
Granulated and brown sugar (for filling): Brown sugar adds moisture and deeper caramel notes alongside the sweetness of granulated sugar.
Molasses (for filling and frosting): Unifies the recipe with its signature dark, earthy sweetness and moisture.
Full-fat cream cheese: For that tangy, luscious frosting that ties everything together beautifully.
Powdered sugar: Smooth sweetness for the frosting without any grittiness.

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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

One of the best parts about the Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe is how easily it adapts to your taste. I love playing around with the spices or swapping out add-ins to suit the season or my mood. Don’t be afraid to make it yours.

Spice It Up: Sometimes I like to add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the filling for a deeper holiday vibe.
Swap the Sweetener: If you need gluten-free or want to cut refined sugar, try coconut sugar in the filling for a similar molasses-like taste.
Nutty Additions: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled in the filling add a wonderful crunch and texture contrast.
Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and vegan cream cheese to make these rolls for dairy-sensitive friends.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses 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 and Build Your Dough

Start by warming your water (around 105-110°F if you have a thermometer), then sprinkle in your dry yeast and sugar. Give it a little stir and watch for those bubbles – that’s yeast magic happening! This usually takes 5-10 minutes. Once bubbly, add milk, molasses, salt, your spices, and the egg. Mix well. Now gradually stir in flour. I do one cup first, then add the softened butter, and finally the rest of the flour until the dough just comes together. It’ll look a bit shaggy but don’t worry.

Step 2: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Flour your surface lightly and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes — add flour sparingly if it’s sticky. The texture should be smooth and elastic, almost like soft PlayDoh. This step is key to those fluffy rolls, so take your time here. Then let it rest for 10 minutes while you prep your filling.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Spread the Filling

Roll your dough into a 9x12-inch rectangle, being patient with that stretchy dough. Brush on your melted butter and molasses mix (it may look a little streaky but that’s okay!). Then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar and spice mixture evenly, leaving a small ½" border. This combo is what gives the rolls those irresistible layers of flavor.

Step 4: Roll, Slice, and Let Rise

Roll up the dough from one of the long edges tightly into a log. Slice carefully into 6 equal rolls with a serrated knife, seam side down, and arrange them in your baking pan. Press gently to flatten just a touch. Cover loosely and let these beauties rise for about 1.5 hours until puffy and soft.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Bake the rolls for 28-32 minutes, keeping an eye so they don’t brown too much. You can tent foil over the top if they’re getting too dark. Once baked, let them cool for 15 minutes before frosting.

Step 6: Whip Up the Molasses Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat cream cheese, butter, cinnamon, and molasses together until silky smooth. Then slowly mix in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until your frosting is luscious and spreadable. Slather this on while the rolls are still a bit warm so it melts into every crevice — trust me, it’s heavenly.

Top Tip

After making Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe several times, I’ve learned a few tricks that can make your baking journey smoother and your result even better.

Perfect Yeast Activation: Make sure your water is warm, not hot – around 105-110°F. Too hot and your yeast dies, too cold and it won’t activate well.
Dough Consistency: The flour amount can vary slightly based on humidity. Add flour gradually while kneading until you achieve that smooth, elastic feel.
Rolling Patience: The dough is elastic and wants to snap back. Just keep rolling gently, pause, and stretch it out slowly rather than rushing.
Frost Right Timing: Spread the frosting while rolls are warm so it melts right in. If rolls cool completely, you might want to warm them slightly first.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe

gingerbread cinnamon rolls - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar or some finely chopped pecans on top for crunch. Sometimes a few crystallized ginger bits add a fun zing and complement the molasses beautifully. It’s those small touches that elevate presentation and flavor if you’re entertaining.

Side Dishes

These rolls love pairing with a steaming cup of chai tea or a bold dark coffee—that spice-milk combo is unbeatable. For brunch, I like offering fresh fruit salad and creamy yogurt alongside to balance the sweetness and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, I’ve arranged the rolls in a circular bundt pan and drizzled extra molasses glaze over the top with some pomegranate seeds scattered around. It makes for a stunning centerpiece that guests can’t help but dig into right away!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. I find this keeps them soft and fresh enough to enjoy without refrigeration. If you need to keep them longer, the fridge helps but they dry out a bit faster.

Freezing

These rolls freeze wonderfully, whether baked or unbaked. I’ve frozen the unbaked rolls after slicing, then thawed and allowed them to rise before baking, with excellent results. Baked rolls freeze too; just thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm before serving. Perfect for prepping ahead during busy holidays.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, I microwave rolls for about 8-10 seconds—just enough to soften the frosting and dough without making it hard. Alternatively, warming them wrapped in foil in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes works well if you want evenly heated, fresh-baked vibes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use blackstrap molasses instead of unsulphered molasses?

Blackstrap molasses is much stronger and more bitter than unsulphured molasses and will dominate the flavor in these rolls. For the best balance of sweetness and spice, stick with unsulphured molasses as called for in the recipe.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should approximately double in size and look puffy and slightly jiggly when gently poked. It’s important not to rush this step for soft, airy rolls. If your kitchen is cold, it may take a bit longer—be patient!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based milk and substitute the butter with vegan butter alternatives. Replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind that without eggs, the texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

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

Fluff your flour container first, then spoon it gently into the measuring cup and level off with a knife. This prevents packing too much flour into the cup, which can make the dough tough. Accurate flour measurement is key to tender rolls!

Final Thoughts

Baking Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Molasses Frosting Recipe has become a ritual I cherish when I want to feel grounded and festive all at once. The aroma alone fills the kitchen with warmth and gets everyone excited. It’s the kind of recipe you make once and find yourself making again—and again. I hope you have as much fun baking and sharing them as I do. Trust me, you’ll be so glad you tried this one!