Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Delight in soft, fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls bursting with warm spices, perfect for cozy mornings and festive gatherings. These irresistible Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls bring the comforting flavors of autumn right to your kitchen, combining the sweet earthiness of pumpkin with the classic richness of cinnamon and sugar, all wrapped up in pillowy dough topped with smooth cream cheese glaze. Whether you’re sharing them with family or treating yourself to a comforting breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Soft Texture: Pumpkin puree keeps the rolls incredibly moist and tender for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Warm Autumn Flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves blend with pumpkin to create a cozy, seasonal taste.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples with just a few additions, making it easy to whip up anytime.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Great for weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or even as an indulgent dessert.
• Visual Appeal: Beautiful golden rolls with swirls of spiced sugar will impress any crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each adding unique flavor, color, or texture that elevates the Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls from ordinary to extraordinary.

• All-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and chewiness to the dough.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise to a soft and airy consistency.
• Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, richness, and that beautiful pumpkin flavor and color.
• Warm milk: Activates the yeast and contributes to a soft dough.
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: Sweetens the dough and adds depth with molasses notes.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: Classic spices that bring warm, autumnal aromas and flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and softness, both in the dough and the filling.
• Egg: Adds binding and tenderness to the dough.
• Cream cheese and powdered sugar: For the luscious glaze that perfectly balances the spices.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors throughout the rolls.

Variations for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable so you can customize it based on your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have available in your pantry.

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a trusted gluten-free flour blend for a safe, tender roll.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, flax egg, and vegan butter for a dairy-free delight.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts in the cinnamon sugar filling for extra crunch.
• Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a more complex spice profile.
• Maple Glaze: Replace cream cheese frosting with maple syrup glaze for a sweet, earthy finish.

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How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by activating your yeast in warm milk with a touch of sugar, allowing it to bubble up. Mix the pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and sugar into the yeast mixture, then gradually add the flour, salt, and spices to form a soft, sticky dough. Knead gently until smooth, then cover and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 16 by 12 inches. This sets the stage for an even layer of delicious filling.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle generously with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This filling is where the magic happens, infusing every bite with warm sweetness.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting from the longer edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice it into 12 even rolls. Arrange them snugly in a greased baking dish to ensure they rise tall and fluffy.

Step 5: Second Rise and Bake

Cover the rolls and let them rise again until puffy, about 30 to 45 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While they bake, whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk to create a smooth, creamy glaze. Spread this over the warm rolls right after removing them from the oven.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients at room temp ensure even mixing and better yeast activation.
• Don’t Over-flour: Keep flour additions minimal to maintain soft, tender rolls.
• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Adequate rising is key for fluffy, airy rolls.
• Slice with Dental Floss: Dental floss makes slicing rolls cleaner and keeps their shape intact.
• Apply Glaze While Warm: Spreading glaze on warm rolls allows it to melt and soak in beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Sprinkle some crushed toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon powder on top of the glaze for an inviting presentation and added texture.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a steaming cup of spiced chai tea, rich coffee, or hot apple cider to complement the autumn flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange rolls in a rustic wooden box lined with parchment paper for a charming brunch centerpiece, or stack them on a tiered serving tray for festive gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls in the baking dish covered tightly with plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before the second rise and baking.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave individually for 20–30 seconds until soft and fragrant.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is usually what most recipes call for—just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?

You can substitute with a simple powdered sugar glaze made from sugar and milk or try a maple syrup glaze for a different but delicious finish.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top, feel springy to the touch, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the dough and rolls in advance, refrigerate them after assembling, and then bake when ready for fresher rolls.

Do Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls freeze well?

Yes, both baked and unbaked rolls freeze well. Just be sure to wrap them tightly, and thaw completely before reheating or baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a seasonal treat that fills your home with warmth and joy, you absolutely have to try these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Their soft texture, rich flavors, and welcoming aroma make them an unforgettable experience you’ll want to share again and again. Don’t wait for fall—bring that cozy feeling into your kitchen today!

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