Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls That Will Spice Up Your Mornings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 4 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Milk (lukewarm); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (can substitute with instant yeast at a 1:1 ratio); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1 cup Reduced Pumpkin Puree; 2 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Salt (use Diamond Crystal for best results); 2 tablespoons Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom (or nutmeg for a different note); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (adjust until desired consistency); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup; 1 tablespoon Espresso Powder (or finely ground instant coffee)

As the leaves start to crunch underfoot and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the soothing aroma of baking wafting through the home. Enter my decadent Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, where the magic of brioche meets the heartwarming taste of fall. This delightful recipe transforms humble pumpkin into a mouthwatering filling swirled with spices, making it an ideal breakfast indulgence or festive treat for gatherings. Not only are they a feast for the senses, but these rolls are also a quick way to impress your guests! The pièce de résistance? A luscious coffee maple cream cheese icing that ties it all together. Are you ready to take your autumn mornings to the next level?

Why are these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls irresistible?

Soft, Fluffy Texture: Each roll is crafted from a rich pumpkin brioche dough, ensuring that every bite melts in your mouth.
Irresistible Fillings: Loaded with a warm pumpkin brown sugar filling and aromatic spices, they bring the essence of fall to your breakfast table.
Unique Icing: Finished with a decadent coffee maple cream cheese icing that elevates these rolls to a whole new level of indulgence.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy morning brunches, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends.
Make-Ahead Friendly: With tips on how you can prepare the dough ahead of time, breakfast can be stress-free! For more baking inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to holiday baking.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

Get ready to impress with these decadent flavors!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for creating the roll’s soft and airy texture.
Milk – Use lukewarm to activate the yeast effectively.
Active Dry Yeast – A leavening agent; can substitute with instant yeast at a 1:1 ratio.
Unsalted Butter – Melted before mixing helps achieve a tender crumb.
Brown Sugar – Adds deep sweetness and molasses flavor to the dough.
Reduced Pumpkin Puree – Condensed for rich pumpkin taste and to prevent a wet filling.
Eggs – Provide structure and moisture.
Salt – Enhances flavor and affects yeast activity; use Diamond Crystal for best results.

For the Filling

Cinnamon – Provides warm, aromatic spice to complement the pumpkin.
Ground Cardamom – Adds a unique flavor; you could switch to nutmeg for a different note.

For the Icing

Cream Cheese – Essential for the tangy sweetness of the icing.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetness and texture; adjust until desired consistency is reached.
Maple Syrup – Imparts a unique flavor profile to the icing.
Espresso Powder – Adds depth; can swap with finely ground instant coffee for a similar effect.

Whether you’re perfecting these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for a cozy breakfast or impressing guests during the holidays, they are guaranteed to steal the spotlight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Begin by warming your milk to around 110°F and mixing in the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and salt, followed by the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, combine reduced pumpkin puree with brown sugar, cinnamon, ground cardamom, and softened butter in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure a smooth and spreadable consistency, creating a deliciously spiced filling that will enhance your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. On a floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick. Spread the pumpkin filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for easier rolling. The vibrant filling will peek through the dough, promising delectable flavor!

Step 5: Cut Rolls
Carefully roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, forming a log. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, ensuring they have room to rise. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them puff up for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking. The Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls will be soft and fluffy, ready to enjoy!

Step 7: Make Icing
While the rolls are cooling slightly, prepare the coffee maple cream cheese icing. In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and espresso powder until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sweetness to your preference to create a luscious drizzle that will elevate your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 8: Frost and Serve
Once your rolls are warm, generously spread the icing over the top, allowing it to melt slightly into the soft dough. These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, inviting everyone to indulge in their sweet, spiced goodness. Perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

As autumn’s embrace surrounds you, indulge in a symphony of flavors for a cozy breakfast or festive gathering.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls, adding vibrant colors and textures to your plate.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider brings out the fall flavors, enhancing the pumpkin and cinnamon essence beautifully.
Maple-Glazed Bacon: The savory crunch of maple-glazed bacon complements the sweet rolls while offering a delightful balance of flavors.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with yogurt and granola, this creates a creamy, crunchy addition that contrasts the tender rolls.
Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai, with its warming spices, echoes the rolls’ cinnamon notes and creates a cozy drink experience.
Nutty Granola: Serve alongside a bowl of nutty granola. Its crunch provides an enjoyable textural difference to the soft rolls.
Cinnamon-Infused Coffee: A steaming cup of cinnamon coffee deepens the warm spiciness, making each bite of roll even more heavenly.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For pumpkin lovers, a latte mirrors the flavors within the rolls, creating a themed breakfast feast!
Whipped Cream: A dollop of spiced whipped cream on top can turn your rolls into a decadent dessert treat at brunch.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps and then refrigerate the dough instead of letting it rise at room temperature. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out and let it rest for about 30 minutes before rolling and cutting the rolls. Additionally, you can mix the pumpkin filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring to cover it well to maintain freshness. This way, you’ll have the fluffy rolls ready for a cozy breakfast with minimal effort, just as delicious as if baked fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Keep baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, place the rolls in the fridge, where they will last for about 5 days. Be sure to wrap them to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-iced Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container after they are fully frozen. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your rolls again, reheat from frozen by baking in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy the cozy aroma filling your kitchen once more!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with these delightful variations!

Butternut Squash: Swap pumpkin for butternut squash for a slightly different flavor that still screams fall.
Nutmeg Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warm, spiced aroma that’s truly comforting.
Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and a wholesome twist; just adjust the liquid a bit.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your icing game by drizzling melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Pecans or Walnuts: Incorporate chopped nuts into the filling for a delightful crunch; they add an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Mini Pumpkin-Spice Lattes: For an extra kick, stir in a teaspoon of pumpkin spice into your icing, creating a creamy, latte-like experience.
Sweet Potato Substitute: If you’re out of pumpkin, sweet potato puree can step in seamlessly, bringing a rich flavor and creamy texture.
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling bold, add a sprinkle of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a surprising and delightful heat!

These variations are a great way to adapt the recipe to your tastes or dietary needs. Plus, every twist allows you to create new memories around the kitchen table. Enjoy your baking journey, and consider pairing these rolls with our festive guide to holiday baking to make your celebrations even sweeter!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Purity: Use reduced pumpkin puree to avoid sogginess in your filling, ensuring a delightful texture in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.
Temperature Matters: Lukewarm milk is crucial for activating the yeast properly; too hot can kill it, while too cold will slow down the process.
Kneading Technique: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic; this is key for achieving that soft, fluffy roll.
Precise Portions: When cutting your rolls, aim for equal sizes to ensure even baking and perfect presentation.
Icing Consistency: Adjust the powdered sugar in the icing until you reach a drizzle-worthy consistency, enhancing the overall sweetness of the rolls.
Storage Secrets: For optimal freshness, store baked rolls in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze un-iced rolls for longer storage.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use reduced pumpkin puree to avoid a soggy filling in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Look for a canned variety that states “100% pumpkin” and avoid any labeled as pumpkin pie filling, which also contains added sugars and seasonings.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Very! Keep baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal softness. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll last around 5 days. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze un-iced rolls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until fully frozen. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Ensure your milk is lukewarm, not hot (around 110°F), as high temperatures can kill yeast. Make sure you’re also using fresh yeast. You can test it by combining yeast with warm water and a little sugar; it should become frothy within 5-10 minutes. If not, you may need to start over and use fresh yeast.

Are there any dietary considerations for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Of course! If you’re making these rolls for someone with specific dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions: use dairy-free milk and butter for a vegan version and swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative for the icing. Always check labels for allergens, especially for the condensed pumpkin puree and any pre-packaged ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours for best results. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out. This makes it super convenient for busy mornings or holiday baking!