Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are a celebration of fall! These delightful rolls feature a spiced pumpkin dough swirled with a luscious brown sugar filling, all topped off with an irresistible brown butter cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they bring warmth and comfort to any gathering or cozy morning at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste that defines fall.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a weekend breakfast, these rolls suit any event beautifully.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, you can enjoy homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls without fuss.
• Impressive Presentation: These rolls look stunning on any table, making them ideal for serving guests.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm out of the oven or reheat as leftovers for a delightful snack.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make preparing these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps in evenly rolling out the dough for perfect-sized cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fall breakfast. A pumpkin spiced yeasted dough is filled with a brown sugar filling then topped with a brown butter cream cheese frosting. What is not to love!?

Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 Teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast (1 Standard American Package)
– 6oz (3/4 Cup) Warm Water (check your yeast for temp, usually around 115F/46C)
– 50 Grams (1/4 Cup) Granulated Sugar/Caster Sugar
– 2 Tablespoons Butter, browned
– 1 Large Egg, at room temperature
– 1 Tablespoon Dry Milk Powder
– 1 Teaspoon Salt
– 5.3oz (2/3 Cup) Pure Pumpkin Puree (Not Pumpkin Pie Filling)
– 1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
– 406 Grams – 468 Grams (3 1/4 – 3 3/4 Cup) All-Purpose Flour/Plain Flour
– 150 Grams (3/4 Cup) Brown Sugar
– 1 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
– 1 1/2 Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
– 3oz (6 Tablespoons) Butter, browned
– 4oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
– 2oz (1/4 Cup) Browned Butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
– 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
– 180 Grams (1 1/2 Cups) Confectioners Sugar/Powdered Sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water with yeast and let it sit until frothy. Mix in granulated sugar and browned butter until combined.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add in the egg, dry milk powder, salt, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about five minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

While the dough rises, mix brown sugar with ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice in another bowl.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about half an inch thick.

Step 7: Add Filling

Spread browned butter over the rolled-out dough evenly. Then sprinkle the sugar mixture all over it.

Step 8: Form Rolls

Starting from one end of the rectangle, roll up tightly into a log. Cut into equal pieces using dental floss or sharp knife.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover again and let them rise for about another hour until puffy.

Step10: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for approximately 27 minutes or until golden brown.

Step11: Make Frosting

While rolls bake, prepare frosting by beating cream cheese with browned butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream gradually; mix well before adding confectioners’ sugar until creamy.

Step12: Frost & Serve

Once baked rolls cool slightly, drizzle generous amounts of frosting over them before serving warm!

Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls any time of day!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat for breakfast; they can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging in a cozy morning at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Classic with Coffee

• Pair your warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with a rich cup of coffee. The flavors complement each other perfectly, enhancing the spices in the rolls.

Drizzle of Maple Syrup

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling warm maple syrup over each roll. This gives an extra layer of flavor and moisture that many will love.

Cream Cheese Frosting on the Side

• Serve extra cream cheese frosting alongside the rolls for those who enjoy a richer experience. It’s perfect for dipping or spreading.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears, to balance the sweetness of the rolls. Their crisp texture provides a nice contrast.

Sprinkle of Nuts

• Top your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutty flavor. This also enhances their visual appeal.

Whipped Cream Delight

• For an indulgent treat, serve with lightly sweetened whipped cream. It creates a dessert-like experience that feels luxurious.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail and some handy tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use fresh yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by checking its expiration date and proofing it before use. This guarantees that your dough rises well.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dense rolls rather than light and fluffy ones.
• Let dough rise properly: Give your dough ample time to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving soft and airy cinnamon rolls.
• Don’t skip browning butter: Browning butter adds depth of flavor to both the dough and frosting. It enhances the overall taste profile significantly.
• Cool before frosting: Allow your rolls to cool slightly before applying frosting. This prevents melting and helps create a beautiful finish.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and apples adds brightness and freshness alongside sweet rolls.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the cinnamon sweetness.
3. Savory Breakfast Casserole
   A cheesy egg casserole can balance out the sweetness of the rolls while providing protein for a hearty meal.
4. Oatmeal
   A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit makes for a wholesome addition that fits well into any breakfast spread.
5. Smoothie Bowl
   Blend up a smoothie packed with spinach, banana, and almond milk, topping it with seeds and nuts for added nutrition alongside your rolls.
6. Chai Tea
   The spiced flavors of chai tea pair beautifully with pumpkin rolls, creating a comforting beverage choice that enhances their taste.
7. Eggs Benedict
   This classic dish featuring poached eggs and hollandaise sauce offers a luxurious contrast to sweet cinnamon rolls when served together.
8. Scones
   Lightly sweet scones can provide another baked option that pairs well without overshadowing the star of the show: your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful treat, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold Ingredient Measurements: Always double-check your ingredient amounts. Using too much or too little can ruin the texture and flavor.
• Bold Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast is activated before mixing it into the dough. If the water is too hot or cold, the yeast may not work properly.
• Bold Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add a little more water gradually.
• Bold Filling Distribution: Spread the filling evenly across the dough. Uneven distribution can lead to some rolls being overly sweet while others are bland.
• Bold Cooling Time: Let your rolls cool slightly before adding frosting. This helps the frosting set better and prevents it from melting off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover them with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Bold Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet with a lid over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking periodically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls that may help you during your baking journey.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

You can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure to cook and puree it well for the best texture in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. This usually takes about 1 hour in a warm place. Pressing your finger into it lightly should leave an indentation.

Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls, let them rise, then refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh in the morning.

What variations can I try with this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls recipe?

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for added texture and flavor!

How should I store leftover rolls?

Store any leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. Their fluffy texture combined with rich flavors makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize your rolls by adding nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste!