Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The Coziest Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Fall Mornings

Baking these delightful pumpkin cinnamon rolls will transport you to a cozy autumn morning filled with warmth and sweet aromas.

Crisp leaves dance outside while spices swirl through your kitchen, promising comfort in every bite.

Soft dough enriched with seasonal pumpkin creates a magical texture that melts in your mouth.

cinnamon gentle heat weaves through each swirl, promising a delectable treat that feels like a warm embrace.

Simple ingredients blend together effortlessly, making this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Kneading and rolling become a meditative experience, connecting you with traditional baking techniques.

You’ll find these rolls irresistible – prepare to fall in love with a new breakfast favorite.

Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Guide

  • Savor Quick Comfort: Dive into a restaurant-quality meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe to your taste by adding extra vegetables like spinach, swapping protein, or adjusting spice levels, making it a versatile dish that welcomes personal creativity.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Champion: Packed with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults, guaranteeing clean plates and happy faces around the dinner table.
  • Impress Without Stress: Looks and tastes gourmet but requires minimal cooking skills, allowing home cooks of all levels to create a meal that seems like it came straight from a fancy restaurant kitchen.

Ingredients Needed For Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough Base:
  • Warm Milk: The liquid that activates the yeast and provides moisture for the dough.
  • Yeast: A crucial ingredient that helps the dough rise and creates a soft, fluffy texture.
  • Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the rolls.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness to the dough.
For the Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of the rolls, providing the base for the soft texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: Warm spices that give the rolls a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor profile.
For the Filling and Topping:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and a classic fall flavor to the rolls.
  • Melted Butter, Softened Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender dough and filling.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deep sweetness and helps create a caramelized flavor in the filling.
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy, tangy frosting that complements the sweet rolls.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and aroma to the frosting.
  • Cloves, Pinch of Salt: Enhance the overall flavor complexity of the rolls.

How To Prepare Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Combine warm milk, yeast, and a tiny bit of sugar in a small bowl. Allow the mixture to sit and become frothy for 5-10 minutes.

Step 2: Create the Dough Base

Mix the remaining sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and activated yeast mixture in a large mixing bowl until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Blend the Dry Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to the dough mixture:
  • Flour
  • Salt
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Ginger

Mix thoroughly to form a soft, cohesive dough.

Step 4: Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

Combine the following ingredients in a small bowl:
  • Softened butter
  • Brown sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Cloves

Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and create a smooth filling.

Step 6: Roll and Fill

Stretch the risen dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread the prepared filling evenly across the entire surface of the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a log.

Slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cover and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 9: Whip Up the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, blend the following ingredients until smooth and creamy:
  • Cream cheese
  • Softened butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Step 10: Finish and Serve

Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.

Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful autumn-inspired treat!

Helpful Tips For Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

  • Use fresh, high-quality pumpkin puree for the most robust flavor in your cinnamon rolls.
  • Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure proper yeast activation and soft texture.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better binding.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to match personal taste preferences.
  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

Flavorful Twists For Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

  • Maple Pecan Pumpkin Rolls: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup in the filling, and sprinkle chopped pecans over the cream cheese frosting for a nutty crunch.
  • Apple Spice Pumpkin Rolls: Mix finely diced fresh apples into the filling and add extra ground cardamom to enhance the warm spice profile.
  • Cream Cheese Swirl Pumpkin Rolls: Create a cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese with brown sugar, then swirl it into the pumpkin dough before rolling.
  • Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Rolls: Fold mini chocolate chips into the dough and sprinkle additional chips over the cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness.

Ideal Pairings For Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

  • Cozy Autumn Breakfast Delight: Serve these warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls alongside a steaming mug of apple cider or hot coffee for a perfect fall morning treat.
  • Dessert Party Centerpiece: Create an eye-catching dessert spread by arranging the rolls on a rustic wooden board, garnished with whole pecans and a light dusting of cinnamon.
  • Weekend Brunch Showstopper: Pair the rolls with a creamy pumpkin spice latte and a side of crispy bacon for a decadent weekend brunch that will impress family and friends.
  • Gift of Comfort: Package the cooled rolls in cute mason jars or decorative boxes as a heartwarming homemade gift during the holiday season, wrapped with a festive ribbon.

Proper Storage Advice For Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

  • Store cooled pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Prepare rolls up to the point of cutting and placing in the baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let rise before baking.
  • Allow fully baked and frosted rolls to cool completely. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm slightly before serving.

FAQs

  • What makes pumpkin cinnamon rolls different from regular cinnamon rolls?

Pumpkin adds moisture, subtle sweetness, and warm autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating a richer, more complex flavor profile compared to traditional rolls.

  • Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. After kneading, let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature and continue with rolling and filling.

  • How do I know if my yeast is active?

The yeast mixture should become frothy and bubbly within 5-10 minutes when combined with warm milk. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired or the milk was too hot or cold.

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Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe


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4.6 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Scrumptious pumpkin cinnamon rolls blend autumn spices with sweet, pillowy dough for a comforting breakfast treat. Warm kitchen aromas and rich flavors will welcome you to savor each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm milk, yeast, and a hint of sugar in a small container. Allow the mixture to become foamy for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Create the dough base by blending the remaining sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and activated yeast mixture until uniformly smooth.
  3. Incorporate flour, salt, and warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger) to develop a soft, pliable dough consistency.
  4. Knead the dough thoroughly on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until achieving a smooth, elastic texture. Transfer to a greased bowl and let rise in a warm environment for approximately 1 hour, or until volume doubles.
  5. Craft the filling by thoroughly mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and aromatic spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves) into a cohesive blend.
  6. Gently roll the risen dough into a rectangular shape measuring 12×18 inches on a floured workspace.
  7. Distribute the prepared filling evenly across the dough’s surface, ensuring complete coverage.
  8. Tightly roll the dough from the lengthy side, creating a compact log. Slice into 12 uniform sections and arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  9. Allow the rolls to undergo a secondary rise for 30 minutes, covered.
  10. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until achieving a rich golden-brown coloration.
  11. Simultaneously prepare the frosting by whipping cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a delicate salt pinch until achieving a smooth, creamy consistency.
  12. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls immediately after baking. Serve and savor the delightful treat.

Notes

  • Activate your yeast carefully by using warm (not hot) milk to ensure proper rising and prevent killing the yeast.
  • Choose fresh pumpkin puree for a more vibrant, natural flavor that elevates the entire roll’s taste profile.
  • Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which creates those beautifully soft and stretchy cinnamon rolls.
  • For gluten-free variations, substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better texture.
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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