Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful way to welcome the fall season, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are just the treat! There’s something magical about waking up to the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon and pumpkin wafting through your home. These rolls are not only a perfect breakfast for cozy mornings but also make a fantastic addition to family gatherings or special occasions. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of fluffy pumpkin-spiced dough and a gooey brown sugar filling topped with creamy brown butter frosting. It’s like a hug in every bite! Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up even on busy days, making them a great option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Don’t worry if you’re new to baking! The steps are simple and straightforward.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love these sweet rolls—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh in the morning.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates an irresistible taste that screams fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these tasty Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or easily found at your local grocery store.

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! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Swap the Frosting: Try using a maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting for a different twist.
• Mix in Chocolate: Add chocolate chips into the filling for a sweet surprise!
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to give your rolls a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your yeast. In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar, then sprinkle in the yeast. Let it sit until it becomes foamy—this means your yeast is alive and ready! Next, mix in browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. This mixture creates that deliciously spiced base we all love.

Step 2: Add Flour

Gradually add flour while mixing until you form a soft dough. Knead it gently on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading is crucial because it develops gluten, giving your rolls their fluffy texture!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—about an hour. This step is essential as it allows air bubbles to form inside the dough.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise, mix together brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice in another bowl. This sweet mixture will create that gooey center inside your rolls.

Step 5: Shape Your Rolls

Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over it before sprinkling your filling evenly across. Roll it up tightly from one end to another and slice into equal pieces.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange your sliced rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again until puffy—about 30 minutes. This second rise helps make your rolls light and airy!

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven while waiting for the final rise. Bake those beauties until golden brown—a tantalizing aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 8: Make the Frosting

While they bake, prepare your frosting by mixing browned butter with cream cheese until creamy. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream before gradually incorporating powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Once baked and cooled slightly, drizzle that luscious frosting over each roll. Enjoy warm with loved ones—they won’t last long!

Now that you have this comforting recipe at hand, I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Making the perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your rolls come out fluffy and full of flavor every time!

• Use fresh yeast: Fresh yeast guarantees a better rise and fluffiness in your rolls. If your yeast is expired, it might not activate properly, leaving you with dense rolls.

• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough well helps develop gluten, which gives your cinnamon rolls that lovely airy texture. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.

• Let it rise in a warm place: Yeast loves warmth! Finding a warm spot in your kitchen will help the dough rise effectively. Consider turning on your oven for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.

• Don’t skip the browning: Browning the butter adds a nutty flavor that elevates both the dough and frosting. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, so it doesn’t burn.

• Frost while warm: Frosting the rolls while they are still warm from baking allows the frosting to melt slightly into the rolls, creating a deliciously creamy texture that is hard to resist!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be just as fun as making them! With a few garnishes and side dishes, you can create a beautiful presentation that enhances their fall flavors.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Ground cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the frosted rolls can add visual appeal and reinforce that warm spice aroma.
• Fresh herbs: A sprig of rosemary or mint can provide a fresh pop of color and an unexpected flavor twist.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds offers a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and slices of banana or berries for a balanced side dish that adds creaminess and crunch.
• Maple syrup drizzled oatmeal: Creamy oatmeal sweetened with maple syrup gives an earthy counterpoint to the sweetness of the rolls while keeping breakfast cozy.
• Spiced chai or coffee: A cup of spiced chai or strong coffee pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, enhancing your morning experience with warmth and comfort.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to make your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls not just delicious but truly memorable! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store, or even freeze them to enjoy later. Here’s how to keep your delicious rolls fresh and ready to savor.

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

• Wrap each cinnamon roll tightly in plastic wrap once cooled.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the bags!

Reheating

• Remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer and let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• For quick reheating, microwave each roll for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

How do I make pumpkin cinnamon rolls without eggs?

You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mix or unsweetened applesauce. Use one tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water per egg, or replace it with a quarter cup of applesauce.

Can I use whole wheat flour for pumpkin cinnamon rolls?

Yes! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just note that this may result in a denser roll, but they’ll still be delicious!

What makes these pumpkin cinnamon rolls special?

The combination of pure pumpkin puree and warming spices creates a delightful flavor that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Topped with creamy brown butter frosting, they are truly irresistible.

How long do pumpkin cinnamon rolls last?

When stored properly, these rolls will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer enjoyment, freeze them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! They’re not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a chilly morning and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy every gooey bite, and don’t forget to let me know how they turn out! Happy baking!