Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. There’s something incredibly comforting about warm, fluffy rolls bursting with pumpkin spice and topped with velvety frosting. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or festive family gatherings. The best part? You can whip them up the night before and enjoy the smell of fresh-baked goodies wafting through your home in the morning!

Imagine gathering around the table with your loved ones, enjoying these sweet rolls alongside steaming cups of coffee or tea. They’re not just for special occasions; they’re perfect for any day when you want to indulge a little. Trust me—once you taste these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for novice bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls! These are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough the night before and bake fresh rolls in the morning—perfect for busy mornings!
• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, inviting taste that screams comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change Up the Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Try Different Frostings: Swap out brown butter cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make Them Mini: Roll smaller portions of dough into bite-sized treats for easy snacking.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your yeast! In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit until bubbly—this step ensures your rolls will rise perfectly. Once ready, stir in browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Knead it gently until smooth; this helps develop gluten for those fluffy rolls we love!

Step 2: First Rise

Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—this will take about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your kitchen’s warmth. This rising time is crucial as it gives your rolls their wonderful texture.

Step 3: Fill and Roll

Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape. Spread browned butter evenly over the surface followed by brown sugar mixed with cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. Roll tightly into a log; this creates those beautiful swirls we all adore!

Step 4: Second Rise

Cut your log into equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover again with a towel and let them rise until puffed up—about another hour or so. This second rise is important as it makes every bite light and airy!

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven while you wait! Bake those lovely rolls at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown—about 25-27 minutes should do it! Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when they smell heavenly.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While your rolls cool slightly, whip up that delicious frosting! Beat together softened cream cheese, browned butter, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and confectioners sugar until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Frost & Enjoy!

Spread that frosting generously over warm rolls—it melts beautifully into every nook and cranny! Dig in while they’re still warm for an unforgettable treat that embodies everything wonderful about fall.

Now you’re all set to make these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Making the perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can ensure your rolls come out fluffy and delicious every time!

• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. This will help your dough rise beautifully, resulting in light and airy cinnamon rolls.
• Check Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too dry, add a little more water; if too wet, sprinkle in some extra flour. This ensures the perfect texture.
• Brown Your Butter: Browning the butter for both the dough and the frosting adds a nutty flavor that takes these rolls to another level of deliciousness.
• Let Them Rise: Be patient! Allow your dough to rise until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving that soft and fluffy texture that everyone loves.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply let them come to room temperature before baking. This makes breakfast a breeze!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not just tasty; they also make a beautiful centerpiece for any breakfast table. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top of your frosting for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over each roll enhances their sweetness and adds a lovely autumnal flair.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and cranberries provides a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that balances out the sweetness.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your meal, making it more filling without overpowering the flavors of the rolls.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pair these rolls with a warm beverage to create a cozy atmosphere at breakfast.

Enjoy your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls as part of a complete meal or simply on their own—they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, store them in the fridge overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning. Here’s how to store leftovers and make the most of your delicious rolls.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely.
• 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 cooled cinnamon roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, place rolls on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• For frozen rolls, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin; just ensure it’s pureed smoothly. Canned pumpkin puree is more convenient as it’s ready to use.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are done baking?

Your rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and have doubled in size. You can also check for a light bounce when pressed gently.

Can I prepare Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and filling the night before. Just refrigerate it overnight and bake in the morning for fresh rolls!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! With their warm spices and creamy frosting, they’re sure to become a favorite at any gathering or cozy weekend breakfast. Don’t hesitate to share your results or any tweaks you made—I’d love to hear about your experience! Happy baking!