Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fall breakfast, combining the warmth of pumpkin spice with the comforting goodness of freshly baked rolls. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy mornings at home, these rolls feature a soft, yeasted dough filled with a sweet brown sugar mixture and topped with a rich brown butter cream cheese frosting. They are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a standout treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting flavor that captures the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or an everyday treat, these rolls will impress family and friends alike.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh rolls in the morning for an effortless breakfast experience.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different frostings or toppings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
• Whisk: Use a whisk for blending dry ingredients thoroughly and ensuring even distribution.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps achieve an even thickness in your dough, which is key for uniform baking.

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!?

Dough 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

Filling Ingredients

• 150 Grams (3/4 Cup) Brown Sugar
• 1 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1 1/2 Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice

Frosting Ingredients

• 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

Begin by activating the yeast. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle yeast over it and let it sit until frothy.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Once frothy, add in browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until combined.

Step 3: Add Flour

Gradually add all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let it Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In another bowl, mix brown sugar with ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape.

Step 7: Assemble Rolls

Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Evenly sprinkle the filling mixture across the surface.

Step 8: Roll & Cut

Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Cut into equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place cut rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 10: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about 25–27 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 11: Make Frosting

While baking, prepare frosting by mixing browned butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.

Step 12: Frost & Serve

Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle with frosting before serving. Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls make a delightful treat for any occasion, especially during the fall. They can be served warm, fresh out of the oven, or at room temperature. Here are some creative ways to enjoy them.

Classic Serving

• Serve with a drizzle of extra brown butter cream cheese frosting for an indulgent touch.

With a Side of Coffee

• Pair your rolls with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced latte to enhance the cozy flavors.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Dressed Up with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh apple or pear for a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

For a Special Occasion

• Arrange them on a decorative platter and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation at brunch.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Making perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your rolls turn out fluffy and delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your instant dry yeast is within its expiration date for optimal rise.
• Check Water Temperature: Warm water should be around 115°F (46°C) to activate the yeast properly.
• Knead Well: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic; this typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
• Let It Rise Properly: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, usually about 1-2 hours.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven; overbaking can dry out your rolls. They should be golden brown when done.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust pumpkin pie spice measurements according to your taste preference.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

While Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are undoubtedly delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries adds freshness and brightness.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy contrast.

3. Spiced Oatmeal
   A warm bowl of oatmeal flavored with cinnamon and nuts makes for a cozy addition.

4. Maple Glazed Bacon Turkey Strips
   Turkey bacon lightly glazed with maple syrup adds salty sweetness that pairs well.

5. Chai Tea Latte
   This spiced tea complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully while providing warmth.

6. Cheese Board
   Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese along with crackers for variety in textures and flavors.

7. Herbal Tea Selection
   Offering different herbal teas can provide soothing options that harmonize well with the sweetness of the rolls.

8. Savory Quiche Slice
   A slice of quiche filled with vegetables or cheese brings savory balance to your sweet rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Wrong Yeast Temperature: Using water that is too hot or too cold can kill the yeast. Always check your yeast package for the ideal temperature, usually around 115°F (46°C).

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough for too long can develop gluten, leading to tough rolls. Mix just until combined and let it rest.

• Incorrect Flour Measurement: Adding too much flour can make your rolls dry. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, or spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off.

• Skipping the Rising Time: Rushing through the rising process will yield dense rolls. Allow the dough to rise until it’s doubled in size for light and fluffy results.

• Not Browning Butter Properly: Browning butter adds depth of flavor, but if you burn it, it can ruin your frosting. Watch closely and remove from heat as soon as it turns golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds per roll.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered pan on low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?

Using pumpkin pie filling will add extra spices and sugars, which may alter the texture and sweetness of the rolls. It’s best to stick with pure pumpkin puree for this recipe.

How do I make my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls fluffier?

To achieve fluffier rolls, ensure your yeast is fresh and allow sufficient time for the dough to rise properly before baking.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can use margarine or coconut oil as alternatives to butter if you want a dairy-free option while maintaining a similar richness.

Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. With their warm spices and creamy frosting, they make an ideal breakfast treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them with nuts or different frostings to match your preferences!