Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fall breakfast. With a delightful blend of pumpkin spice and cinnamon, these rolls are perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. Their fluffy texture and rich brown butter cream cheese frosting make them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet weekend at home, these rolls will elevate any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates an irresistible taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it simple for bakers of all skill levels to create these tasty treats.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 generous servings, they’re ideal for breakfast gatherings or celebrations with family and friends.
• Versatile Options: Enjoy them warm for breakfast or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
• Homemade Goodness: Experience the satisfaction of baking from scratch, filling your home with wonderful aromas.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls: A stand mixer makes dough preparation easier, while mixing bowls are essential for combining ingredients if you prefer to mix by hand.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps in rolling out the dough evenly, ensuring consistent thickness for perfect rolls.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides a reliable surface for baking your cinnamon rolls uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls require fresh ingredients to achieve their delightful flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough

• 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 Cups) All-Purpose Flour/Plain Flour

For the Filling

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

For the Frosting

• 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

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let it sit until frothy.
2. In a stand mixer bowl, mix granulated sugar, browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Add the yeast mixture once it’s frothy.
4. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
2. Place the dough in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
3. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine brown sugar with ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice; mix well.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle shape.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Spread softened browned butter over the rolled-out dough.
2. Sprinkle the filling evenly over the buttered surface.
3. Roll up tightly from one end to another; cut into slices.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Place sliced rolls onto a lined baking sheet; cover again with a towel.
2. Allow them to rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

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

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

While cooling, beat together cream cheese and browned butter until smooth; add vanilla extract and heavy cream gradually mixing in powdered sugar until creamy.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once cooled slightly, spread frosting generously over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and family.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Add a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich and creamy finish.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely gooey texture.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair the cinnamon rolls with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness perfectly.

Topped with Nuts

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

Served Warm

• For the best experience, serve the rolls warm out of the oven or reheat them briefly before serving.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Creating perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh yeast: Check the expiration date on your yeast package to ensure it is active for optimal rise.

• Warm water temperature: Ensure that your warm water is around 115°F/46°C. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly.

• Knead thoroughly: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten for a better texture.

• Allow proper rising time: Let the dough rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size, typically about an hour.

• Don’t rush frosting: Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before adding frosting; this prevents melting and ensures it stays fluffy.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your breakfast experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the cinnamon rolls.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a well-rounded meal alongside sweet rolls.

4. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add savory flavor and texture, creating an enjoyable contrast with sweet cinnamon rolls.

5. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit can be a comforting addition to your breakfast spread.

6. Smoothie: Blend up a refreshing smoothie using banana, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious drink option next to your rolls.

7. Breakfast Sausages: Turkey or chicken sausages offer a savory bite that pairs well with sweet treats like pumpkin cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls from good to great. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Yeast Temperature: If the water is too hot or too cold, it can kill the yeast or prevent it from activating. Always ensure your warm water is around 115°F (46°C).

• Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: Using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree can lead to overly sweet rolls. Stick with pure pumpkin for the best flavor.

• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements or spoon flour into a measuring cup and level off.

• Skipping the Rising Time: Rushing through the rising time can result in dense rolls. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for optimal fluffiness.

• Overbaking: Baking the rolls for too long will dry them out. Keep an eye on them, and use a toothpick to check for doneness.

• Ignoring Frosting Temperature: If your cream cheese isn’t softened, it won’t blend well with other frosting ingredients. Ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place one roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Steam rolls over boiling water for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:

How do I make my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls fluffier?

To achieve fluffier rolls, ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly before mixing with other ingredients.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half and adjust as needed.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own blend by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal parts.

Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fill it, then store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You can customize these rolls by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or swapping out spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not only perfect for fall but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them by adding different spices or mix-ins based on what you love. Give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t regret indulging in these soft, spiced treats!