Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. The dough is filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices, and the chai cream cheese glaze is sure to fill your days with comfort! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat during fall gatherings, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a comforting and aromatic taste that will delight your palate.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, anyone can whip up these cinnamon rolls without fuss.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or a cozy breakfast option; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with nutrients from pumpkin and spices, these rolls are both satisfying and wholesome.
• Impressive Presentation: The swirls of pumpkin filling topped with creamy glaze make for a visually stunning treat that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful rolls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls: A stand mixer makes kneading the dough easy, while mixing bowls are perfect for combining ingredients by hand.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps flatten the dough evenly, ensuring uniform cinnamon roll sizes.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for even cooking and browning of the cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened (You can use whole milk, if desired)
• 2 black tea bags, premium (You can also use a chai tea bag and omit the spice blend)
• 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp chai spice blend (See Notes!)
• 4 cups organic All-purpose flour (I love Bob’s Red Mill)
• 2 cups Artisan Bread flour (I love Bob’s Red Mill; See Notes!)
• 1 packet Rapid Rise Yeast (That’s 2 1/4 tsps!)
• 1-2 tsps pumpkin spice blend
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 cup WARM water
• 1/2 cup organic brown sugar + 1 Tbsp
• 1 1/4 cup Almond milk, unsweetened + at room temp. (You can use whole milk or heavy cream, if desired)
• 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (NOT Pie filling!)
• 2 large eggs, room temp.
• 6 Tbsps unsalted butter, melted + cooled until warm (Make sure that it’s WARM, not hot!)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp.
• 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend

For the Glaze

• 3 cups organic powdered sugar, sifted
• 4 oz. organic cream cheese, softened at room temp. (That’s 1/2 a pack!)
• 3-4 Tbsps cooled Chai tea mixture (See Notes!)

How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a bowl or stand mixer:
1. Warm the almond milk slightly and add the black tea bags. Let steep for about 5 minutes.
2. Remove tea bags and stir in pure maple syrup and chai spice blend.
3. In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, bread flour, rapid rise yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, warm water, brown sugar (1/2 cup), room temperature almond milk (1 1/4 cup), pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter (6 Tbsps), and vanilla extract.
4. Mix until combined into a soft dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Once mixed:
* Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.
* Place it in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While the dough rises:
* In a bowl, mix together softened butter (1/2 cup), brown sugar (remaining), and Dessert Lover Blend until smooth.

Step 4: Roll Out Dough & Add Filling

After dough has risen:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16 x 12 inches.
3. Spread filling evenly over rolled-out dough.

Step 5: Shape & Cut Rolls

Once filled:
* Starting from one long side of the rectangle:
– Roll tightly into a log shape.
– Cut into twelve equal slices using dental floss or sharp knife.

Step 6: Bake Rolls

Place cut rolls onto prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper:
* Bake in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze

While rolls are baking:
1. Beat together powdered sugar and softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Stir in cooled Chai tea mixture to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze & Serve

Once rolls are baked:
* Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
Enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their warm spices and rich flavor, they can be enjoyed in various ways.

For Breakfast

• Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
• Pair them with your favorite breakfast tea or coffee to enhance the flavor experience.

As a Brunch Item

• Present them on a beautiful platter alongside other brunch items like quiches or frittatas.
• Drizzle extra chai cream cheese glaze over the top for an indulgent touch.

For Dessert

• Enjoy these rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
• Top with chopped nuts or chocolate shavings to add texture and richness.

As a Snack

• Pack them in a lunchbox for a sweet afternoon treat.
• Warm them briefly in the microwave and enjoy with a cup of chai tea.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Creating the perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls takes some attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results:

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the dough rise better and creates fluffy rolls.
• Knead properly: Kneading the dough until it’s smooth will ensure that your rolls are tender.
• Don’t skip the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture.
• Measure accurately: Use kitchen scales for precise measurements, especially with flour and sugar.
• Adjust baking time if needed: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking; ovens can vary, and you want them golden brown but not overcooked.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Complement your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls with these delicious side dishes that enhance their flavors and make your meal more enjoyable.

1. Spiced Apples: Sauté sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, sweet side dish.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a refreshing contrast.
3. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds protein and balances out the sweetness of the rolls.
4. Chai Tea Latte: Serve this creamy drink to echo the chai flavors in the rolls.
5. Cranberry Salad: A tangy salad featuring cranberries provides a bright, tart contrast to the sweet rolls.
6. Mixed Green Salad: Include nuts and dried fruits to add texture alongside your delicious cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for. Here are a few tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can hinder the dough from rising properly. Always use room temperature eggs and warm milk.
• Skipping the Proofing Stage: Not allowing the dough to proof can lead to dense rolls. Make sure to give your dough enough time to rise until it doubles in size.
• Overfilling with Filling: Adding too much filling can cause spills during baking. Use a moderate amount of pumpkin mixture and spread it evenly.
• Not Sifting Flour: Failing to sift flour can result in clumpy dough. Always sift your flour before measuring for better results.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may burn the rolls or leave them undercooked. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, here are some common questions and answers.

Can I use regular flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different.

What spice blend should I use?

A mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves works well. You can also find pre-made chai spice blends.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute almond milk with a plant-based alternative, and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size; you can check by poking it gently; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

What is the best way to serve these cinnamon rolls?

Serve warm with a drizzle of chai cream cheese glaze on top for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they bring warmth and comfort any time of year. Feel free to customize them with different spices or glazes to match your taste preferences!