Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Delicious Fall Treat

Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Delicious Fall Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups All purpose flour; 1 cup Pumpkin puree; ¾ cup Whole milk; ½ cup Unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup Granulated sugar; ½ cup Brown sugar; 2 ¼ tsp Instant yeast; 1 Large egg; 2 tbsp Ground cinnamon; ½ tsp Ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp Ground cloves; 4 oz Cream cheese, softened; 1 cup Powdered sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla extract; Milk, for glaze

by basmer

6 de September de 2025

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Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls have officially arrived, and my kitchen is filled with that irresistible aroma of autumn! I remember the first time I tried making these, hoping for that perfect blend of sweet pumpkin and warm cinnamon, and let me tell you, they delivered. The dough is incredibly soft and fluffy, and the pumpkin spice filling creates a beautiful swirl that just screams fall. If you’re looking for an easy pumpkin cinnamon rolls recipe that will wow your family and friends, you’ve found it. Get ready for a truly delightful treat that tastes like a cozy hug. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls; they’re a taste of pure autumn bliss!

The flavor is incredible, a perfect balance of sweet pumpkin and cozy spices.
You can whip up these homemade pumpkin cinnamon rolls in about 2 hours total time.
They’re surprisingly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
Kids and adults alike will adore these soft pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
The prep time is manageable, making them perfect for a weekend treat.
They bring a delightful warmth and spice to any fall gathering.
The aroma while baking is absolutely heavenly.
You get a satisfying homemade dessert without tons of fuss.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these amazing warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls. You’ll need the star of the show, 1 cup pumpkin puree – make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling, for that authentic flavor. For the dough, we’ll use 4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast, and a touch of sweetness from ½ cup granulated sugar. The richness comes from 1 cup whole milk, ½ cup unsalted butter, melted, and 1 large egg. For that signature pumpkin spice flavor, we’ll mix in 2 tbsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and ¼ tsp ground cloves. The filling combines ½ cup brown sugar with more cinnamon. And for the irresistible topping, you’ll need 4 oz cream cheese, softened, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a splash of milk for the glaze.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls. It’s truly an easy pumpkin cinnamon rolls recipe that anyone can master!

Step 1: Start by warming 1 cup whole milk and gently stir in 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast and 1 teaspoon of the granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it looks foamy and bubbly; this means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup pumpkin puree, ½ cup unsalted butter, melted, the remaining ½ cup granulated sugar, and 1 large egg. Mix until everything is beautifully smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Pour the activated yeast mixture into the pumpkin mixture and stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Gradually add 4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and ¼ tsp ground cloves to the wet ingredients. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a soft, slightly sticky dough begins to form.
Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and feels wonderfully soft to the touch. This kneading process is key to how to make pumpkin cinnamon rolls that are perfectly textured.
Step 6: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 7: Once doubled, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
Step 8: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one edge. Sprinkle generously with ½ cup brown sugar and an additional teaspoon of cinnamon for that classic cinnamon swirl.
Step 9: Tightly roll the dough log from the long side, pinching the seam to seal it. Cut the log into 16 even slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Step 10: Arrange the cut rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring they have a little space between them. Cover the dish again and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 11: While the rolls are having their second rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 12: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 13: While the rolls bake, prepare the pumpkin cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together 4 oz cream cheese, softened, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a tablespoon or two of milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 14: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before spreading the luscious pumpkin cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

Pro Tips for the Best Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Want to elevate your pumpkin cinnamon roll game? I’ve got a few secrets I’ve picked up that make all the difference:

Don’t skip the second rise! Letting the cut rolls puff up again ensures those incredibly soft pumpkin cinnamon rolls we all crave.
For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger to the filling along with the cinnamon and nutmeg.
Make sure your pumpkin puree is well-drained, or even slightly reduced, to prevent excess moisture that can make the dough too wet.
Using a serrated knife or dental floss to cut the rolls prevents squishing the dough and helps them rise evenly.

What’s the secret to perfect pumpkin cinnamon rolls?

The real secret lies in the dough’s hydration and proper proofing. Using the milk-soaked yeast mixture and allowing the dough to rise sufficiently creates those wonderfully light, airy pockets. For that signature look, aim for a nice, tight pumpkin spice swirl rolls pattern when you roll them up. Proper proofing is essential for achieving a light and airy texture, similar to how a good sourdough starter needs consistent feeding and care. You can learn more about yeast activation and proofing techniques on King Arthur Baking.

Can I make homemade pumpkin cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and even assemble the rolls the night before. Cover the unbaked rolls tightly and refrigerate them. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, and add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with pumpkin cinnamon rolls?

A common pitfall is over-mixing the dough, which can lead to tough rolls. Mix until just combined, then knead. Another issue is not letting the dough rise enough, which is why my pumpkin cinnamon rolls are sometimes flat; ensure your yeast is active and the dough is in a warm spot. Lastly, don’t overbake them, or they’ll lose their moisture. For more tips on baking, check out these easy family dinners that share similar baking principles.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These delightful rolls are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments makes them even better. Nothing beats a steaming mug of coffee or hot cocoa alongside these warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls. For a truly indulgent breakfast or brunch, serve them with a side of scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to balance the sweetness. They also make a wonderful dessert, especially when dusted with a little extra cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Imagine a plate of these sweet treats next to a fresh fruit salad – pure autumnal bliss! You might also enjoy them with other easy baked goods.

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Enjoying these sweet treats comes with a delightful nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown per serving (approximately 1 roll):

Calories: 310
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 150mg
Cholesterol: 40mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Once your delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, it’s time to think about storage. For short-term enjoyment, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep these glorious treats longer, pop them into the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for about 3-4 days, maintaining their wonderful texture and flavor, even with that delightful pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls frosting. For longer storage, these rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap each cooled roll tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply unwrap and warm them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds until just warmed through. Enjoying these leftovers is almost as good as the first bite!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

What exactly are pumpkin cinnamon rolls?

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, infused with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They feature a soft, fluffy dough swirled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and are typically topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. They’re a perfect treat for fall baking!

Can I make pumpkin pie cinnamon rolls instead?

You absolutely can! If you love the taste of pumpkin pie cinnamon rolls, you can easily adapt this recipe. Simply add a bit more pumpkin pie spice blend to the dough and filling, or even a tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice directly into the cream cheese frosting for an extra boost of those familiar pie flavors. It’s a simple swap that gives you that classic pie taste in a gooey roll.

Why are my pumpkin cinnamon rolls flat?

There are a few reasons your pumpkin cinnamon rolls might end up flat. Firstly, ensure your yeast is active and that the dough has risen sufficiently in a warm spot. Over-proofing or under-proofing can affect their puffiness. Also, avoid over-kneading the dough, as this can make the gluten too tight. Finally, make sure you’re not using too much pumpkin puree, as excess moisture can weigh the dough down.

Are these considered healthy pumpkin cinnamon rolls?

While these are a decadent treat, they are made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree and spices. They offer a good source of fiber from the pumpkin and flour. Compared to many store-bought versions, making them at home allows you to control the sugar and fat content, making them a more mindful indulgence for those seeking flavorful autumn baked goods. For more healthy eating tips, consider exploring foods to eat less of.

Variations of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

Feeling adventurous? These pumpkin cinnamon rolls are wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ways to mix things up and create even more delicious variations:

Spiced Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: For an even bolder spice profile, increase the cinnamon to 3 tablespoons and add ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of cardamom to the filling. This creates truly aromatic, spiced pumpkin cinnamon rolls that are perfect for a chilly morning.
Glazed Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Pecans: After frosting, sprinkle the warm rolls with chopped toasted pecans. The nutty crunch is a fantastic contrast to the soft dough and creamy glaze, making for delightful glazed pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Vegan Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Swap the whole milk for unsweetened almond or soy milk, use a vegan butter substitute, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes). The cream cheese frosting can be made with vegan cream cheese and plant-based milk.
Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls: Infuse even more of that classic pie flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice directly into the dough along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This will give you rolls that taste remarkably like a slice of your favorite pumpkin pie cinnamon rolls.