Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen, especially when infused with the rich, earthy flavors of pumpkin. If you're looking for a delightful fall treat that captures the essence of the season, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try! Whether you're planning a cozy breakfast, a special brunch, or a sweet dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover how you can easily create these irresistible rolls, filled with spiced pumpkin goodness and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze.

this Recipe

What Are Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a seasonal twist on the classic cinnamon roll, incorporating pumpkin puree into the dough and filling. The addition of pumpkin not only enhances the flavor with its natural sweetness and slight earthiness but also makes the rolls extra moist and tender. The filling typically includes a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and butter, with the optional addition of nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to complement the pumpkin flavor. These rolls are often finished with a generous drizzle of cream cheese glaze, making them an indulgent treat perfect for autumn.

Ingredients List for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To make these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Substitutions and Variations

While this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, there are several substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own. If you prefer a different spice blend, feel free to adjust the spices in the filling to your taste. For example, you could add ginger for a bit of zing or increase the amount of cinnamon for a more intense flavor.

If you're looking to make a dairy-free or vegan version, you can substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter. The cream cheese glaze can also be made with dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delicious rolls.

For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling, giving the rolls a delightful crunch. Alternatively, you could drizzle the rolls with caramel sauce instead of cream cheese glaze for an extra indulgent treat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls might seem like a labor of love, but with this step-by-step guide, you'll find it’s easier than you think. Follow these instructions to bring a taste of autumn to your kitchen.

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
   • Add the pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
   • Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and pumpkin puree in a bowl until well combined.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it onto a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 16x12 inches.
4. Spread the Filling:
   • Evenly spread the prepared filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roll and Cut the Dough:
   • Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal.
   • Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
6. Second Rise:
   • Place the rolls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
7. Bake the Rolls:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil.
8. Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze:
   • While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until the glaze is smooth and creamy.
9. Glaze the Rolls:
   • Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the cream cheese glaze over the top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Not Proofing the Yeast Properly: Ensure your yeast is alive by proofing it in warm milk with sugar. If it doesn’t foam up within 5-10 minutes, the yeast might be dead, and you'll need to start over.
• Overmixing the Dough: Be careful not to overmix or over-knead the dough, as this can make the rolls tough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable.
• Skipping the Second Rise: Don’t rush the process by skipping the second rise. This step is crucial for fluffy, soft rolls.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake to prevent them from drying out. If the tops brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, especially if you’re making them for a special occasion. Here are a few tips to make your rolls look as good as they taste:

• Glaze Generously: Don’t skimp on the cream cheese glaze! The glossy, white drizzle not only adds sweetness but also makes the rolls look irresistible.
• Garnish with Nuts: For an added touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze.
• Add a Dash of Spice: Lightly dust the rolls with cinnamon or nutmeg before serving to enhance the flavor and add a professional touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven. The soft, gooey texture combined with the rich, spiced flavor is simply divine. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a cozy breakfast or brunch. They also make an excellent dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

If you're serving them at a gathering or brunch, consider placing them on a large platter or a tiered cake stand for an eye-catching display. The vibrant orange hue of the pumpkin, contrasted with the white cream cheese glaze, is sure to catch everyone’s attention.

Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To elevate the presentation of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, consider these creative ideas:

• Use a Bundt Pan: For a unique twist, arrange the rolls in a Bundt pan before baking. This will create a beautiful, pull-apart bread that’s perfect for sharing.
• Mini Rolls: Make mini versions of these rolls by cutting the dough log into smaller pieces. Serve them in cupcake liners for individual portions.
• Layered Rolls: For a more decadent treat, layer the rolls in a deep dish and pour extra glaze or caramel sauce between the layers before baking.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Tips

To ensure your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast, high-quality spices, and pure pumpkin puree make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Process: Allow the dough to rise properly for the fluffiest rolls.
• Adjust for Altitude: If you live at a high altitude, you may need to make adjustments to the baking time and temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator. In the morning, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Q: Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls? A: Absolutely. You can freeze the rolls after the second rise. Simply let them thaw and rise slightly before baking, or bake them and freeze them fully cooked. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree? A: It’s not recommended since pumpkin pie filling is sweetened and spiced. Stick to pure pumpkin puree for the best results.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. With their soft, tender dough, rich pumpkin filling, and creamy glaze, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re guaranteed to delight everyone who tastes them. So, why wait? Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get baking—you won't regret it!

Print