Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for the perfect way to welcome fall, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are just what you need! There’s something so cozy about the warm aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting through the kitchen. These delightful rolls make the ideal breakfast treat for busy weeknights or a special family gathering. With their fluffy texture and rich brown butter cream cheese frosting, they’ll surely become a favorite in your home!

Nothing warms the heart quite like sharing a homemade treat with loved ones. Plus, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious, but they also create those cherished moments around the breakfast table that we all treasure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pro baker to whip up these rolls! The steps are simple and straightforward.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for fall.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet rolls, making them great for any gathering.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh in the morning—perfect for busy days!
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make these rolls uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home or can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful treat!

For the Dough

• 2 1/4 Teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast (1 Standard American Package)
• 6oz (3/4 Cup) Warm Water (check your yeast for temp, usually around 115F/46C)
• 50 Grams (1/4 Cup) Granulated Sugar/ Caster Sugar
• 2 Tablespoons Butter, browned
• 1 Large Egg, at room temperature
• 1 Tablespoon Dry Milk Powder
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 5.3oz (2/3 Cup) Pure Pumpkin Puree (Not Pumpkin Pie Filling)
• 1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 406 Grams- 468 Grams (3 1/4- 3 3/4 Cup) All-Purpose Flour/ Plain Flour

For the Filling

• 150 Grams (3/4 Cup) Brown Sugar
• 1 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1 1/2 Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice

For the Frosting

• 3oz (6 Tablespoons) Butter, browned
• 4oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2oz (1/4 Cup) Browned Butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
• 180 Grams (1 1/2 Cups) Confectioners Sugar/ Powdered Sugar

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Mix Up the Spices: Try using different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
• Stuff with Chocolate: Add chocolate chips inside for a decadent surprise!
• Glaze Instead of Frosting: If you prefer a lighter option, skip the frosting and drizzle with a maple glaze instead.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming up your water to about 115°F (46°C), which is just right for activating the yeast. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water with instant dry yeast and let it sit until it becomes frothy. This tells you that your yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix in Ingredients

Once your yeast is frothy, add granulated sugar, browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pure pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice into the bowl. Mix until combined. Gradually add all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms. This step is crucial because it ensures your rolls will have that lovely fluffy texture we all adore.

Step 3: Knead and Rise

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this usually takes about an hour. This rising process helps develop flavor and texture!

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise, mix together brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl. This fragrant filling will add sweetness and warmth to each bite of your rolls.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, punch down your dough gently and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the surface before sprinkling on your filling mixture evenly. This layer of filling will melt into the rolls as they bake.

Step 6: Roll & Slice

Carefully roll up the dough tightly from one end to another into a log shape. Slice it into equal pieces—about 12 works well—and place them into a greased baking dish. Allow them to rise again for about half an hour while you preheat your oven.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those lovely rolls for about 25-27 minutes until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will soon be filled with irresistible scents!

Step 8: Make Frosting & Serve

While they bake, whip up your brown butter cream cheese frosting by combining browned butter with cream cheese, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Once out of the oven and slightly cooled—drizzle or spread on this creamy goodness!

And there you have it! Perfectly fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls that are sure to be loved by everyone who tries them! Enjoy every delicious bite on those cozy fall mornings!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh yeast: Ensure your instant dry yeast is fresh for the best rise. If your dough doesn’t rise well, it could lead to dense rolls instead of fluffy ones.

• Warm water temperature matters: When activating your yeast, the water should be warm but not hot. Ideally, it should be around 115°F (46°C) to wake up the yeast without killing it.

• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to both the rolls and frosting. This simple step elevates the overall taste and makes these rolls extra special.

• Knead until smooth: Properly kneading your dough until it’s smooth and elastic is crucial. This develops gluten which helps give your rolls their airy texture.

• Let them cool a bit before frosting: Allowing your rolls to cool slightly before adding the frosting ensures that it doesn’t melt off completely and creates a beautiful creamy layer on top.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for cozy fall mornings or festive brunch gatherings! Present them beautifully, and they’ll surely impress anyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds crunch and enhances the flavor profile.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top brings an extra touch of warmth and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the rolls perfectly.
• Hot cocoa or spiced apple cider: Serve alongside a warm drink that echoes the cozy spices in your rolls—perfect for chilly mornings.
• Scrambled eggs or egg muffins: Adding protein balances out the sweetness of the rolls and creates a hearty breakfast spread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any breakfast table! Enjoy every sweet bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance and store them, making your mornings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Once baked and cooled, wrap each cinnamon roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for about 30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and ensures consistency in texture.

How do I make gluten-free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

To make gluten-free Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I prepare these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Simply refrigerate them and bake in the morning for fresh rolls!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! They are not only a treat for your taste buds but also fill your kitchen with warm spices that evoke cozy fall vibes. Whether it’s for breakfast or a special brunch, these rolls are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite and share with loved ones—happy baking!