Ghost Cinnamon Rolls

Ghost Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy families who want to create something fun and spooky without spending hours in the kitchen. These Halloween cinnamon rolls start with store-bought cinnamon rolls and transform into the cutest spooky breakfast or dessert with just a few simple touches that take less than 15 minutes total.

What I love most about this recipe is how the kids get so excited to help create the wavy ghost shapes and draw on the little faces. These spooky cinnamon rolls are one of those recipes that feels like you’re being super creative but honestly it’s so simple that even the youngest kids can help without it being stressful.

Ingredients & Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious ghost cinnamon rolls:

• Grands cinnamon rolls
• Black gel icing

Full measurements for each ingredient can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

You’ll also need a few things from your kitchen:

• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Step By Step Directions

This recipe makes 5 servings. It takes 10 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cook time.

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2. Open the cinnamon roll package and set the icing aside. Separate each cinnamon roll and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3. Unroll each cinnamon roll around halfway, then use your fingers to create a wavy edge at the bottom of each cinnamon roll. Lightly press the end of the dough into the center swirl to secure it in place.

Step 4. Bake the cinnamon rolls according to the package instructions.

Step 5. When they’re finished baking, remove the pan from the oven and immediately spread the icing over the top of each roll.

Step 6. Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly, then draw a face on each cinnamon roll with the black gel icing before serving.

Variations

• Try using orange gel icing instead of black for pumpkin-themed faces.
• Add mini chocolate chips for eyes and mouth before baking for a different look.
• Use white chocolate melts instead of the included icing for a brighter white ghost.
• Make them extra spooky by adding red gel icing for bloody ghost faces.
• Create different Halloween characters by shaping the dough differently and using various colored icings.
• Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for extra sweetness and sparkle.

Leftovers & Storage

Store your ghost cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re definitely best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them back up. The icing faces might smudge a little if stored too long, so these are really meant to be enjoyed the same day you make them.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t unroll the cinnamon rolls too much or they won’t hold their shape while baking.
• Make sure to press that loose end firmly into the center so your ghosts don’t unravel in the oven.
• Let the rolls cool for at least 5 minutes before adding faces or the icing will melt and run.
• Use a toothpick to draw the faces first if you want to practice before using the gel icing.
• Keep the gel icing at room temperature so it flows easily when you’re decorating.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use regular cinnamon rolls instead of Grands?

Yes, but the regular size might be a little small for the ghost shape. Grands work best because they’re bigger and easier to shape into ghosts.

What if I don’t have black gel icing?

You can use regular black frosting in a squeeze tube or even make dots with mini chocolate chips for a simpler version.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can shape the ghosts and keep them covered in the refrigerator overnight, then bake them fresh in the morning. Just add the faces after they’re baked and cooled.

Do they have to look perfect?

Not at all! The wonky, imperfect shapes actually make them look more like real ghosts. The kids love that there’s no wrong way to do it.

Can I freeze these?

You can freeze the shaped but unbaked rolls for up to a month, then bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

More Easy Halloween Recipes

• Halloween Bark
• Nutter Butter Mummies
• Halloween Oreos
• Halloween Snack Mix
• Halloween Pinwheel Cookies
• No Bake Cookie Dough Pumpkins
• Frankenstein Cakes
• Easy Mummy Cake Pops
• Halloween Worms in Dirt
• Pumpkin Fluff Dip
• Witches Hat Cookies

Pin This Post