Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

As the leaves start to turn and the crisp autumn air begins to take over, there’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a freshly baked pumpkin cinnamon roll. This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and a sweet glaze, making it the ultimate fall indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is a must-try. So, grab your apron and get ready to dive into the cozy world of pumpkin cinnamon rolls. You won't want to miss out on this seasonal favorite—read on to discover how you can bake these delicious rolls right in your own kitchen!

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What Are Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, infused with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree and spiced with warm autumn flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The pumpkin not only adds a rich flavor but also makes the rolls extra moist and tender. These rolls are typically topped with a creamy, sweet glaze, making them an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Perfect for the fall season, pumpkin cinnamon rolls capture the essence of autumn in every bite.

Ingredients List for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To make these delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls, you’ll need a combination of basic baking ingredients and a few special seasonal touches. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¾ cups (350g) all-purpose flour: This provides structure to the rolls.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoon or 7g) active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, making it fluffy and light.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture.
• ⅓ cup (80g) pumpkin puree: Infuses the dough with pumpkin flavor and keeps it moist.
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the dough.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.

For the Filling:

• ⅓ cup (75g) brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the rolls their classic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the cinnamon and adds warmth.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Adds depth to the spice profile.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Helps the filling stick to the dough and adds richness.
• ¼ cup (60g) pumpkin puree: Reinforces the pumpkin flavor in the filling.

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar: The base for the sweet glaze.
• 1–2 tablespoons milk: Thins out the glaze to your desired consistency.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the glaze.
• Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice: For an extra touch of flavor in the glaze.

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic recipe is already delicious, there are several substitutions and variations you can try to tailor these pumpkin cinnamon rolls to your taste or dietary needs.

• Flour: You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a slightly denser texture. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Sugar: If you prefer a more natural sweetener, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar and brown sugar. Keep in mind that these will slightly alter the flavor and color of the rolls.
• Butter: For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or coconut oil. The rolls may have a subtle coconut flavor if using coconut oil.
• Pumpkin Puree: If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, sweet potato puree makes a great substitute with a similar texture and sweetness.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier roll, increase the amount of cinnamon, or add a pinch of ground ginger for an extra kick.
• Filling Variations: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor. You could also sprinkle in some raisins or chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Glaze: For a different twist, try a cream cheese glaze instead of the vanilla glaze. Simply mix 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1–2 tablespoons of milk.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create perfectly fluffy and flavorful pumpkin cinnamon rolls.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
4. Form the dough: Pour the wet ingredients and the activated yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
6. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the filling ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
2. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
3. Spread the filling: Evenly spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture on top. Finally, spread the pumpkin puree evenly over the sugar and spice layer.
4. Roll up the dough: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
5. Cut the rolls: Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll for them to expand.
6. Second rise: Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 3: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Cool: Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before glazing.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, add more milk.
2. Glaze the rolls: Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cinnamon rolls is a rewarding process, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overheating the milk: When activating the yeast, ensure the milk is warm, not hot. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
• Overflouring the dough: Adding too much flour can result in dense, tough rolls. The dough should be slightly sticky but still manageable.
• Skipping the second rise: The second rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; allow the dough to rise until it has noticeably puffed up.
• Underbaking: Make sure the rolls are fully baked before removing them from the oven. They should be golden brown on top and cooked through in the center.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a big role in how your pumpkin cinnamon rolls will be received. Here are some ideas to make them look as good as they taste.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Their soft, pillowy texture and the sweet, gooey filling make them an irresistible treat for any time of day. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for the perfect pairing. They’re great for a cozy breakfast, brunch with friends, or even as a sweet snack in the afternoon.

Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Festive Plate: Serve the rolls on a large, festive plate or platter. Decorate the platter with some fall leaves or small pumpkins to enhance the autumn theme.
• Individual Servings: Place each roll in a small ramekin or on a decorative plate, drizzling a little extra glaze on top just before serving.
• Glaze Drizzle: For a gourmet touch, use a piping bag to drizzle the glaze over the rolls in a decorative pattern.
• Garnish: Sprinkle the rolls with a dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon just before serving for an elegant finish.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe Tips

• Advance Preparation: You can prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, take them out and allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
• Freezing: These rolls freeze well. After the first rise, cut the rolls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
• Extra Glaze: If you’re a fan of extra glaze, double the recipe and serve additional glaze on the side for drizzling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

A: It’s best to use pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, which could make the rolls too sweet and alter the balance of spices.

Q: How can I tell if the rolls are fully baked?

A: The rolls are done when they’re golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of one roll—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.

Q: Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking. Ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute to maintain the right texture.

Q: How should I store leftover rolls?

A: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.

Q: Can I add other spices to the filling?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spice blend to your liking. Ground ginger, allspice, or cardamom can all be great additions.

Conclusion

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall in a warm, comforting pastry. With their soft, fluffy dough, sweet pumpkin filling, and luscious glaze, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these rolls are sure to impress. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of autumn with every delicious bite? Happy baking!

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