Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses: A Festive Treat!

Introduction to Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses

As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with delightful aromas. One of my all-time favorite recipes is Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses. They’re not just rolls; they’re warm, fluffy clouds of festive joy! Perfect for a quick weekend breakfast or a lovely dessert to impress guests, these rolls are sure to bring a smile to your face—and your loved ones too.

Whether you’re a busy mom juggling work and family or someone looking for a sweet indulgence, this recipe meets the moment. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become part of your holiday tradition!

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses

These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses are an absolute dream for busy days. They come together quickly, making them perfect for family breakfasts or holiday gatherings without the stress. Each bite dances with warm spices and rich molasses flavor, instantly filling your home with that festive spirit. Plus, they’re topped with creamy frosting that takes them over the top! By the end, you’ll see smiles all around—you won’t regret it!

Ingredients for Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses

This recipe requires some staple ingredients that most of us likely have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your delicious Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses:

• Bread flour or all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the rolls, giving them structure and a fluffy texture.
• Instant yeast: It helps the dough rise quickly, ensuring soft and light rolls without any long waiting period.
• Brown sugar: Packed tightly, it adds sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the spices.
• Fine sea salt: Just a pinch enriches the flavors and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
• Ground ginger: This spice gives the rolls that unmistakable gingerbread warmth; fresh ginger can work as a substitute for an extra kick.
• Warm milk: Essential for activating the yeast and giving the dough a lovely richness.
• Large eggs: Room temperature eggs add moisture and help bind everything together.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter blends easily into the dough, creating a tender crumb.
• Molasses: This is the star! It provides depth of flavor and that classic gingerbread taste.
• Vanilla extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a sweet aroma to the rolls.
• Ground cinnamon: This aromatic spice brings warmth and complements the ginger beautifully.
• Cream cheese: Softened for the frosting, it provides a creamy texture and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm rolls.
• Powdered sugar: This is used to sweeten the frosting without adding any grittiness, creating a smooth finish.
• Optional ingredients: Feel free to experiment! You can add nuts, raisins, or even a splash of orange zest for a citrus twist.

Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out and use in your festive baking adventures!

How to Make Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses

Prepare the Dough

To start, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, brown sugar, sea salt, and ground ginger in a stand mixer bowl. The dry ingredients come together like old friends, ready to mingle. Then, add the softened butter and warm milk, mixing on medium speed until everything is just combined; no need for a full-blown whirl here.

Next, introduce the eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract to the party. Mix again until a cohesive dough forms. You’ll feel like a dough artist at this point! Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the goodness. Your gingerbread dough is now ready for its transformation.

Kneading and Resting

Attach the dough hook and gradually add the remaining flour at low speed. Once it’s all in, increase the speed to knead the dough for about 4-5 minutes. As you knead, the dough will become smooth and elastic. If it’s still sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour!

After kneading, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, resulting in tender rolls that are a joy to work with. Trust me, patience is key here for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Making the Filling

While the dough rests, let’s whip up the delicious filling. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, additional ground ginger, and molasses. Your mixture should resemble a thick paste—this sweet goodness will generously coat the dough, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor and warmth. The scent? Pure holiday magic!

Rolling and Cutting the Dough

Now comes the fun part! Lightly flour your work surface and roll the rested dough into a rectangle, about 30 x 40 cm. Think of it as shaping a festive canvas. Once it’s rolled out, evenly spread your luscious filling over the surface, leaving a small border.

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal everything in, ensuring no filling escapes. With a sharp knife, slice your rolled dough into 12 equal pieces—a clean cut equals even baking, and I promise they’ll rise in perfect harmony!

Rising the Rolls

Place those beautiful roll slices in a greased baking dish, ensuring they have room to grow. Cover them lovingly and let rise at room temperature for 1 hour. This step is crucial; it’s where the magic really happens as the dough expands, becoming soft and pillowy. Watch them puff up— it’s adorable!

Baking the Rolls

Once the hour has passed, preheat your oven to 175°C. As you wait, the anticipation builds! Bake the rolls for 40 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown and the centers puff up like fluffy clouds. You’ll know they’re done when the aroma fills your home—oh, it’s simply heavenly!

Preparing the Frosting

While your rolls are baking to perfection, let’s whip together that dreamy frosting. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Then add molasses, ground ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing until blended. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, whipping it into a creamy masterpiece. This frosting is the perfect companion to your rolls—sweet and slightly tangy, making each roll sing!

Frosting the Rolls

Remove the warm cinnamon rolls from the oven, and let the excitement build! Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the rolls while they’re still warm. This way, the frosting melts into every nook and cranny, enhancing the flavor and making them irresistible. It’s a sweet touch of happiness, ensuring each bite is blissfully indulgent!

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients for better blending—this includes eggs and butter.
• Don’t rush the rising time; it’s crucial for fluffy rolls.
• Measure your flour accurately; using too much can lead to dense rolls.
• For extra spice, feel free to adjust the amount of ginger or cinnamon to suit your taste.
• Keep an eye on the rolls while baking—every oven is different!

Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer: A handheld mixer can work too, just a bit more effort on your part.
• Dough hook: If you don’t have one, mixing by hand will do; just knead with your hands longer.
• Rolling pin: A wine bottle can double as your rolling pin in a pinch!
• Sharp knife: A pizza cutter works well for slicing the rolls too.
• Baking dish: Any oven-safe dish will suffice; just ensure it’s greased properly.

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture.
• Fruit Fusion: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity burst alongside the spices.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Vegan Twist: Use plant-based milk, flax eggs, and vegan butter in place of animal products for a delicious vegan treat.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate some ground cloves or allspice into the dough or filling for an extra layer of warmth.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair warm Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses with a steaming cup of spiced chai or fresh-brewed coffee for a cozy treat.
• Consider serving them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
• For a holiday brunch, place rolls on a decorative platter, highlighting the beautiful frosting.

FAQs about Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses

Can I make these rolls in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls the night before. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise before baking. This makes for a quick and easy breakfast!

What can I use instead of molasses?
If you’re out of molasses, a good substitute would be honey or maple syrup. They won’t give you exactly the same flavor, but they’ll work in a pinch and still provide sweetness and moisture.

How should I store leftover rolls?
Once cooled, store any leftover Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about 2-3 days and can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds, bringing back that just-baked warmth!

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Yes! After baking, let the rolls cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw before reheating and frosting!

How spicy are these cinnamon rolls?
They pack a flavorful punch! The combination of ginger and cinnamon gives them a warm spice profile, perfect for those who enjoy comforting, holiday flavors. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of ground ginger in the dough or filling.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about making Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls Molasses. The process brings together seasonal spices and cherished memories, creating a delightful treat that warms your home and your heart. Each roll is a soft hug of flavor, especially when topped with that luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether shared at a festive gathering or savored in quiet moments, these rolls promise joy and connection. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones into the kitchen, and let’s create memories together, one delicious roll at a time. Happy baking!

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