Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Frosting

These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Frosting are the ultimate cold-weather indulgence. Rich with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, each soft, gooey roll is a festive hug in edible form. Topped with silky maple frosting, they’re a blend of sweet, spicy, and everything nice.

Perfect for holiday mornings, family brunches, or simply warming up a winter day, these rolls are comforting and joy-sparking. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe brings bakery-level magic straight to your kitchen. One bite and you’ll understand why this flavor combo never goes out of style.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/3 cup brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 2 tsp ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

For the Maple Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Add melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and salt. Mix well.

3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes or until smooth and elastic.

4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick).

6. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with the brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves evenly.

7. Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge into a log and slice into 12 equal rolls.

8. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

10. While rolls bake, beat together all frosting ingredients until smooth and fluffy.

11. Spread the maple frosting over warm rolls before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Rise Time: 90 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 12 rolls

As the seasons change and the air grows crisp, our culinary cravings naturally shift toward comforting, warm, spiced treats. Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Frosting embody this transition beautifully offering a nostalgic twist on a classic breakfast pastry. These sweet rolls combine the fluffy, gooey texture of traditional cinnamon rolls with the rich, aromatic spices of gingerbread and a lusciously sweet maple cream frosting. Whether served for holiday brunch or simply as a cozy treat to share with loved ones, this recipe creates a warm sense of home and tradition with every bite.

A Fusion of Two Holiday Favorites

Cinnamon rolls have been a beloved morning indulgence across many cultures for centuries. Meanwhile, gingerbread with its roots tracing back to Medieval Europe has long been a holiday staple, appreciated for its spicy, molasses-rich flavor profile. Combining the two results in a baked good that feels both familiar and festive.

The gingerbread element is elevated through the use of warming spices like ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a roll that doesn’t just taste sweet but also offers a depth of flavor perfect for colder months. When baked into soft, yeasted dough and slathered with maple frosting, it becomes a dish that delivers both culinary comfort and seasonal celebration.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes these Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls truly stand out is their balance. The dough is soft, slightly chewy, and pillowy the ideal base for a robust filling of spice-laden brown sugar and butter. The spice combination captures the essence of gingerbread cookies, but with a lighter, fluffier texture that’s much easier to enjoy in the morning or with coffee.

The maple frosting plays a crucial supporting role. Rather than using a standard cream cheese icing, the addition of real maple syrup provides a smooth, natural sweetness that complements the spiced filling without overpowering it. The slight tang of the cream cheese keeps the overall profile balanced, avoiding the cloying sweetness that can sometimes come with sticky buns or traditional frostings.

This balance between spice and sweet, dense and airy, warm and creamy, makes it a versatile treat that feels indulgent but still approachable.

Seasonal Versatility

While this recipe shines especially during the autumn and winter holidays, it can be easily adapted for other times of year. The gingerbread flavor profile is deeply associated with the holidays, thanks to traditional treats like gingerbread houses and cookies. But fans of spiced desserts often find themselves craving those same warming notes year-round.

To adjust this recipe for other seasons:

• Reduce the amount of ginger and cloves in spring or summer to lighten the flavor.
• Add a citrus zest (like orange or lemon) to the frosting for a bright, fresh contrast.
• Use different frosting variations—vanilla glaze in warmer months, caramel drizzle for a richer finish.

These small changes can help you enjoy the comforting appeal of these rolls throughout the year, beyond the holiday table.

A Delight for All Senses

These rolls aren’t just about taste they’re an immersive sensory experience. As the dough bakes, it fills your home with an inviting aroma of cinnamon, butter, and ginger. Visually, they are golden and fluffy, spiraled with gooey brown sugar filling, and topped with a glossy cascade of maple frosting. When served warm, the soft layers pull apart effortlessly, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes every bite memorable.

Whether you’re entertaining guests, prepping a special breakfast in bed, or making a lazy Sunday feel a bit more luxurious, these cinnamon rolls offer a moment of bliss.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility in preparation. If you’re planning to serve these rolls on a holiday morning or for a brunch gathering, you can easily prep them the night before. After rolling and cutting the dough, simply place the rolls in your baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, take them out about an hour before baking to allow them to come to room temperature and rise slightly.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave with a damp paper towel to restore their softness and moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked rolls (without frosting). Allow them to thaw and rise before baking, then frost after they’re warm out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

While these rolls are more than satisfying on their own, they also pair beautifully with a range of beverages and side dishes. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your breakfast or brunch spread:

• Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of dark coffee or a cinnamon latte enhance the spices in the rolls.
• Mulled Apple Cider: A non-caffeinated pairing that highlights the warm notes of ginger and cloves.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing, acidic counterpoint to balance the richness of the frosting.
• Scrambled Eggs or Frittata: For a more complete brunch, serve with a savory dish to contrast the sweetness.

For presentation, dust the finished rolls with a touch of powdered sugar or garnish with crushed pecans or candied ginger for extra flair.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this recipe lies in its customizability. If you’re feeling adventurous or catering to specific dietary needs, try some of these variations:

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, egg replacers, and a vegan cream cheese alternative. Maple syrup is already plant-based!
• Gluten-Free Dough: Substitute with a high-quality gluten-free flour mix and adjust liquid ratios accordingly.
• Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries into the filling for added texture.
• Spiced Maple Caramel Drizzle: For an extra indulgent version, drizzle the rolls with warm spiced caramel sauce made with maple syrup and cinnamon.

Each adaptation brings its own charm, making this a truly versatile base recipe.

Conclusion: A Sweet Celebration of Tradition and Comfort

In the heart of the holiday season or any moment where comfort is needed Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Frosting offer more than just a treat. They’re a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the simple joys of baking from scratch. Their rich spices evoke memories of festive kitchens and family breakfasts, while the soft dough and creamy topping invite indulgence in the best way possible.

Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or a newcomer to holiday baking, this recipe is easy to love and even easier to share. It’s the kind of dish that turns ordinary mornings into special occasions and makes festive days feel even more magical.

So the next time you’re craving something warm, sweet, and irresistibly cozy, roll up your sleeves and let these gingerbread-spiced beauties work their magic.