Name: Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened almond milk; 5 tbsp dairy-free butter; 2 1/4 tsp (one 0.25-oz packet) instant yeast; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1/2 cup granulated pure maple sugar; 2 tbsp blackstrap molasses; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp fine sea salt; 4 1/2 cups gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour, divided (all-purpose flour can be used if not gluten-free); Cooking spray or oil for greasing; 1/2 cup dairy-free butter, softened (or ghee/unsalted butter); 2/3 cup coconut sugar; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp ground ginger; 1 tbsp blackstrap molasses; 12 tbsp (about ¾ cup) unsweetened dairy-free creamer of choice; 6 oz dairy-free cream cheese, softened (or regular cream cheese); 1/3 cup dairy-free butter, softened (or ghee/unsalted butter); 1 1/4 cup powdered sugar or powdered sweetener of choice (e.g., Lakanto for lower sugar); 2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch fine sea salt; 1-3 tsp dairy-free milk or unsweetened dairy-free creamer of choice (to thin frosting as needed)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 82 reviews

There is something truly magical about these Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe that feels like the essence of cozy holiday mornings rolled up and baked into one irresistible treat. With rich molasses, warming spices like cinnamon and ginger, and a luscious dairy-free cream cheese frosting, each bite is a perfect hug from the inside. This recipe blends the familiar comfort of cinnamon rolls with the festive spirit of gingerbread, making it a delightful twist you’ll want to enjoy anytime the craving for a fragrant, sweet, and soft pastry strikes.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white bowl holds a pool of bright yellow beaten eggs as light tan yeast granules pour down from a white torn packet into the center of the eggs, creating a soft mound and some floating particles. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with bright natural light casting clean shadows, highlighting the smooth texture of the eggs and the fine texture of the yeast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe shines because of its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients, each adding a layer of flavor, softness, or that classic spiced aroma. From the dairy-free butter creating a tender crumb to the combination of cinnamon and ginger kicking up the warmth, every element plays a crucial role.

Unsweetened almond milk: Adds moisture and helps create a soft dough without dairy.

Dairy-free butter: Essential for that rich, tender texture throughout the rolls.
Instant yeast: Gives the dough its perfect rise and fluffy interior.
Large eggs: Provide structure while keeping the dough soft.
Pure maple sugar: A natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with spices.

Blackstrap molasses: Deepens the flavor, giving those classic gingerbread notes.
Ground cinnamon and ginger: The heart of the spice blend that defines this recipe.
Fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour: Makes this recipe accessible for gluten-sensitive folks; all-purpose flour works too.
Cooking spray or oil: For greasing the bowl and pan to prevent sticking.
Dairy-free cream cheese: Creates a luscious, tangy frosting that tops these rolls perfectly.

Coconut sugar: Sweetens the filling for a subtle caramel touch.
Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant note to the creamy frosting.
Powdered sugar or sweetener: For that smooth and sweet finish on the frosting.

Dairy-free creamer: Keeps the frosting fluffy and smooth without the dairy.

How to Make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Warming the Milk and Butter

Start by gently warming the unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free butter until just warm, never hot, to ensure the yeast stays alive and happy. This step is crucial because it kickstarts the dough's rising process and lends a tender crumb.

Step 2: Mixing the Dough

In your stand mixer bowl, combine the warmed milk and butter mixture with instant yeast. Add eggs, maple sugar, and molasses, mixing on low just to combine. Next, stir in cinnamon, ginger, salt, and most of the flour, then knead with a dough hook until you get a smooth, elastic ball that pulls away from the bowl. If you’re mixing by hand, no worries — it just takes some elbow grease and patience to knead until the dough looks and feels just right.

Step 3: Letting the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Find a warm spot and let it rise until it’s nearly doubled, about 1 ½ hours. Watching the dough grow is such a satisfying sign that your Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is well on its way to deliciousness.

Step 4: Rolling Out and Adding the Filling

Once risen, punch the dough gently and roll it out into a roughly 20 by 14-inch rectangle. Mix the filling ingredients—dairy-free butter, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and coconut sugar—and spread it evenly over the dough with a spatula, leaving a tiny border around the edges. This fragrant layer promises every bite will be full of cozy spice and sweetness.

Step 5: Cutting and Rolling the Cinnamon Rolls

Instead of the traditional spiral, cut the dough into 12 strips, then roll each strip tightly into individual cinnamon logs. This unique method helps the rolls bake evenly and gives a lovely shape that holds that luscious filling inside perfectly.

Step 6: Preparing to Bake

Arrange the rolls cut side up in a greased 9x13 pan. Cover and let them rise for another 30 to 40 minutes until puffy and almost doubled again. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm some unsweetened dairy-free creamer to brush over the tops—it adds moisture and richness during baking.

Step 7: Baking and Frosting

Bake the rolls until just golden and tender in the center, usually 23 to 28 minutes. While baking, whip together the frosting by beating dairy-free cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then blending in powdered sugar, vanilla, a pinch of salt, and creamer to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. When the rolls come out, let them cool slightly before generously smothering them with this heavenly frosting. Prepare for a mouthwatering experience!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of a tray with about twelve cinnamon rolls tightly placed next to each other. Each roll has a golden brown top with darker brown cinnamon swirls spiraled from the center to the edges. They appear soft with a slightly shiny, sugary glaze that is bubbling and pooling around the edges, giving the rolls a moist and sticky look. The rolls are sitting in a creamy, light yellow sauce that covers the bottom of the white marbled tray. The sunlight highlights the warm tones and textures of the rolls, showing their fluffy dough and rich filling clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle your finished rolls with a dusting of cinnamon or crushed crystallized ginger for an extra zing. A few toasted pecans or walnuts on top add delightful crunch and nutty depth that contrasts beautifully with the soft spirals.

Side Dishes

This Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or your favorite spiced coffee to enhance the flavors. For a comforting brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dairy-free yogurt to balance out the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking cinnamon rolls on a pretty platter topped with extra frosting drizzle and a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for a festive look. Or serve individually wrapped in parchment for a charming holiday gift or party favor that’s sure to delight friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five. This helps preserve their freshness and that lovely soft texture we all crave.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping or freeze fully baked ones by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen rolls will stay good for up to three months, making them a super convenient treat to bake fresh whenever you want.

Reheating

Reheat cinnamon rolls by warming them in an oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwaving for 20-30 seconds, adding a little extra frosting or creamer if needed to bring back that soft, gooey perfection.

FAQs

Can I make this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe without dairy-free ingredients?

Absolutely! Although the recipe is designed dairy-free, you can substitute regular butter, milk, and cream cheese if you prefer. It will still deliver that comforting, spiced flavor you love.

Is it possible to use regular wheat flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Yes, swapping in all-purpose wheat flour will work nicely here if gluten isn't a concern. It may result in a slightly softer and stretchier dough that's classic for cinnamon rolls.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Definitely! After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise before continuing with rolling out and filling the next day.

What kind of dairy-free creamers work best?

Unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut creamers are great choices that won’t overpower the spices and help keep the frosting light and fluffy.

How do I make the rolls less sweet if I prefer?

Simply reduce the maple sugar or coconut sugar amounts slightly, and consider using a powdered sweetener like Lakanto in the frosting to keep sweetness in check without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect for holiday mornings or whenever you want to enjoy a special homemade treat. With its warm spices, tender crumb, and indulgent frosting, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll be excited to share with friends and family again and again.

Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need