Imagine a breakfast so decadent, so irresistibly festive, that it transforms your ordinary morning into a winter wonderland of flavor! These Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Eggnog Cream Cheese Glaze are not just a recipe—they're a holiday experience that will have your family rushing to the kitchen, drawn by the intoxicating aroma of warm spices and sweet nostalgia. Prepare to elevate your holiday baking game with a twist on the classic cinnamon roll that screams Christmas morning magic!
Prep Time: 45 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup eggnog
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk (110°F) with active dry yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy and activated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to create the dry spice mixture.
- Add melted butter, egg, and ½ cup brown sugar to the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry spice flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12x18 inches.
- Spread remaining brown sugar evenly across the dough, then sprinkle additional cinnamon and ginger for extra flavor.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife.
- Place rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- For the eggnog cream cheese glaze, beat softened cream cheese with eggnog until smooth and creamy.
- Once rolls are cooled slightly, generously spread eggnog cream cheese glaze over the top.
- Serve warm and enjoy the festive gingerbread cinnamon rolls.
Tips
- Yeast Activation is Key: Ensure your milk is precisely 110°F to activate the yeast perfectly without killing it.
- Warm Rising Environment: Use a draft-free, slightly warm spot like near a preheated oven for optimal dough rising.
- Soft Dough Technique: Don't over-flour when kneading – a slightly sticky dough makes for more tender rolls.
- Uniform Rolling: Use a ruler or measuring tape to create evenly sized rolls for consistent baking.
- Glaze While Warm: Apply the eggnog cream cheese glaze when rolls are still slightly warm for maximum absorption and shine.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.
- Spice Balance: Don't be afraid to adjust spice levels to suit your taste – more ginger for kick, more cinnamon for warmth!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 215kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 32mg
