Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that wraps you in the warmth of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making them a delightful treat on a chilly morning. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend brunch with family, this recipe will bring smiles and aromas that fill your home with joy.

What makes these rolls so special is the combination of fluffy pumpkin dough filled with a decadent brown sugar mixture. And let’s not forget the luscious brown butter cream cheese frosting that takes these rolls over the top! Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time!
• Family favorite: These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are sure to please everyone at the table—kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough in advance and enjoy fresh rolls when you’re ready!
• Perfectly spiced: The warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or even as a sweet snack throughout the day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients can be half the fun! These wholesome ingredients come together to create something truly special. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:

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
• 3oz (6 Tablespoons) Butter, browned

For the Frosting

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize these rolls in ways that suit your taste.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Swap spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavor profiles.
• Chocolate twist: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a deliciously decadent treat.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by combining warm water and sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle the instant dry yeast over it and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial because it wakes up your yeast so it can work its magic!

Step 2: Mix Your Dough

In another large bowl, combine browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pure pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add flour until you form a soft dough. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. This kneading process develops gluten which gives your rolls their fluffy texture.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about an hour. This step allows air bubbles to form, which makes your rolls light and airy!

Step 4: Prepare Your Filling

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

Step 5: Roll It Out

Once your dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread browned butter over the dough before sprinkling your filling evenly across it. Roll it up tightly from one end to another and pinch the seams closed.

Step 6: Cut & Second Rise

Slice your rolled dough into equal pieces—about 12 should do! Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish. Cover them again and let them rise until puffed up—this usually takes about another hour.

Step 7: Bake & Frost

Preheat your oven while those lovely rolls are rising! Bake them until golden brown—around 27 minutes should do. Let them cool slightly before spreading on that delicious browned butter cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of goodness!

Now you’re ready to pull those heavenly Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls out of the oven! Enjoy every gooey bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Making the perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that fluffy, sweet perfection!

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. This will guarantee your rolls rise nicely and have that light, airy texture we all love.

• Check Dough Temperature: When mixing your dough, make sure it’s warm but not too hot. Too much heat can kill the yeast, preventing the rolls from rising properly.

• Don’t Skip the Kneading: Kneading helps develop gluten in the dough, leading to a better structure. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.

• Let It Rise in a Warm Place: Finding a cozy spot (like an oven turned off but slightly warmed) will help your dough rise beautifully. A warm environment encourages yeast activity for increased fluffiness.

• Brown Your Butter Properly: For the frosting, take your time to brown the butter just right. This adds depth and richness to the flavor profile of your cream cheese frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Presenting these delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your breakfast table and impress family or guests! Here are some ideas to make them shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle some toasted pecans on top for a crunchy texture that complements the soft rolls perfectly.
• Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds sweetness and enhances that fall flavor we crave.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and cranberries provides a vibrant contrast to the rich cinnamon rolls.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side dish that balances sweetness with tart freshness.
• Savory Breakfast Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty complement to sweet cinnamon rolls, making for a balanced meal.
• Warm Spiced Apple Cider: A mug of warm spiced apple cider brings warmth and festivity to your breakfast table—perfect for those chilly mornings!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’ll not only master making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls but also create an inviting breakfast experience that everyone will enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, ensuring a delicious breakfast is always just a few steps away. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delightful rolls.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• After baking, let the rolls cool completely.
• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, frost after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen rolls overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• For a softer texture, you can cover them with aluminum foil while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

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

While fresh pumpkin can be used, it requires cooking and blending into a smooth consistency. For convenience and consistent results, using canned pure pumpkin puree is recommended.

How do I make my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls fluffier?

To achieve fluffier rolls, ensure your yeast is fresh and active. Additionally, allow your dough to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size. Don’t rush this step!

Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fillings beforehand. Just follow the storage instructions above to enjoy freshly baked rolls whenever you like.

What variations can I try with my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or dried fruits into the filling. You could also replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition!

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Leftover rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Be sure to keep them wrapped tightly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! They are not only a fantastic way to celebrate fall but also bring warmth and comfort to any breakfast table. Enjoy every bite and share them with friends and family—there’s nothing quite like homemade goodness! Happy baking!