Introduction
There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen, but when you introduce the rich, spiced essence of pumpkin, it transforms into the ultimate comfort food experience. Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic, blending warm cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweet, earthy flavor of pumpkin. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese glaze, these rolls are a cozy treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Not only are these rolls irresistibly soft and fluffy, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. With a little preparation and the right technique, you’ll create a batch of bakery-worthy rolls that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re sharing them with family during the holidays or enjoying a quiet morning indulgence, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls are sure to become a cherished favorite.
Ready to fill your home with the warmth and joy of freshly baked pumpkin cinnamon rolls? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this unforgettable recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls will win your heart:
- Bursting with Pumpkin Flavor: Pumpkin puree adds moisture and depth to the dough, making each bite irresistibly soft.
- Perfectly Spiced: The cinnamon-sugar filling combined with pumpkin spice creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the dough the night before for a stress-free morning bake.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls are a hit with family and friends, making them perfect for gatherings or potlucks.
- Easy to Customize: Add pecans, raisins, or even a caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, the rolls remain tender for days.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe budget-friendly.
Preparation Time and Cook Time
- Total Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 1 hour (includes rising time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Calories per roll: Approximately 300 calories
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
he Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pumpkin spice.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the yeast mixture.
- Form the Dough: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
- Prepare the Mixture: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice. Set aside.
Roll and Fill
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread the Butter: Evenly spread softened butter over the dough.
- Sprinkle the Filling: Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring even coverage.
Shape the Rolls
- Roll the Dough: Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Cut into Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for 30 minutes.
Bake the Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Prepare the Glaze
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until creamy.
Glaze the Rolls
- Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Spread the Glaze: Generously spread the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls.
How to Serve
This is how you will know how to serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:
- Serve these rolls warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans for added flair.
- For special occasions, drizzle with caramel sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Keep the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before glazing.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active for the perfect rise.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls to prevent dryness.
- Customize the Filling: Add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
- Adjust Glaze Consistency: Add more milk for a thinner glaze or more sugar for a thicker one.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Rolls: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet twist.
- Maple Glaze: Swap the cream cheese glaze for a maple syrup glaze.
- Savory Option: Skip the sugar and use herbs and cheese for a savory roll.
- Mini Rolls: Create smaller rolls for bite-sized treats.
freezing and storage
To make the most of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, knowing how to store them properly is key. Whether you’re prepping ahead or saving leftovers, these tips will ensure your rolls stay fresh and delicious every time.
Freeze Before Baking:
- After shaping the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then let the rolls rise at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before baking.
After Baking (Unglazed):
- Bake the rolls and let them cool completely. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat directly from frozen in a 300°F oven for 15–20 minutes, then add the glaze after warming.
After Baking (Glazed):
Glazed rolls can be frozen, but the glaze may slightly change texture. Wrap each roll carefully to avoid smudging the glaze and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm as desired.
FAQ Section
If you’ve got questions about making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, you’re in the right place! Below are some of the most common inquiries, along with tips and tricks to make sure your rolls turn out perfectly every time.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balance. - Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely! These rolls are delicious even without it. - Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise (before baking). Cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven.
- Can I freeze the dough?
- Yes! After rolling and cutting the dough into rolls, place them on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen rolls to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, allow them to rise at room temperature, and then bake as directed.
- What can I use as a substitute for pumpkin puree?
- If you’re out of pumpkin puree, you can use mashed sweet potato or butternut squash puree. They offer a similar texture and flavor profile.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- You can, but the rolls will be denser. For a lighter texture, try substituting only half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pumpkin spice.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the yeast mixture.
- Form the Dough: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
- Prepare the Mixture: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice. Set aside.
Roll and Fill
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread the Butter: Evenly spread softened butter over the dough.
- Sprinkle the Filling: Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring even coverage.
Shape the Rolls
- Roll the Dough: Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Cut into Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for 30 minutes.
Bake the Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Prepare the Glaze
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until creamy.
Glaze the Rolls
- Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Spread the Glaze: Generously spread the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 25 min.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 rolls
- Calories: 300 kcal
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate autumn indulgence, blending soft, fluffy dough with a spiced, pumpkin-rich filling that’s irresistibly delicious. Topped with a creamy glaze, they’re the kind of treat that turns any morning into a special occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a cozy breakfast, a delightful dessert, or a snack with your favorite warm drink, these rolls are bound to bring smiles all around.
Making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is as satisfying as eating them—there’s something magical about rolling up that sweet, spiced filling and watching them bake to golden perfection. And the aroma? Absolutely irresistible! They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or simply treating yourself to a little extra joy.
What makes these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls even better is their versatility. Add a drizzle of maple glaze, a sprinkle of nuts, or a touch of cream cheese frosting to make them uniquely yours. No matter how you serve them, they’re guaranteed to impress.
So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up some magic. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy every bite!