As I whisked together a blend of pumpkin puree and warm spices, the kitchen filled with an aroma that instantly transported me to cozy autumn days. There’s nothing quite like a batch of homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing to evoke that spirit of fall. These delightfully soft rolls are not only easy to whip up but also make for a crowd-pleasing treat—perfect for brunch or dessert. With each gooey bite, the rich flavor of brown butter mingles with creamy icing, ensuring they’re a sweet indulgence everyone will love. So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe invites you to roll up your sleeves and embrace the charm of fall. What’s that cozy moment you treasure most in the kitchen?
Why are these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls irresistible?
Homemade Bliss: There’s nothing quite like the joy of baking these pumpkin cinnamon rolls from scratch. The aromatic blend of pumpkin and spices brings warmth to any kitchen.
Decadent Cream Cheese Icing: Each roll is draped in a rich icing that balances sweetness with creamy tang.
Time-Saving: With a straightforward process, these rolls can be whipped up in no time, even on busy mornings!
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family gatherings or brunch, your loved ones will rave about this tasty treat. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy experience! For a similar delicious recipe, check out my Apple Cinnamon Pancakes.
Customization: Want to add some crunch? Toss in chopped pecans or try a lighter version with milk instead of heavy cream!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the dough. Substitution: Can use salted butter but reduce added salt in the recipe.
- Whole Milk – Activates the yeast to help the dough rise. Note: Warm to 115-120°F before using.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps activate yeast.
- Active Dry Yeast – Leavening agent for a soft dough.
- Large Egg + Egg Yolk – Provides structure and moisture.
- Pumpkin Puree – Contributes to flavor, moisture, and color. Substitution: Freshly cooked and pureed pumpkin can be used.
- All-Purpose Flour – Main structure for the dough. Note: Adjust based on humidity and dough consistency.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor.
For the Filling
- Dark Brown Sugar – Provides rich flavor and moisture in the filling.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the filling.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Enhances the fall flavor profile.
- Unsalted Butter – Used in the filling to create a paste.
For Baking
- Heavy Cream – Drizzled before baking for added moisture and softness. Note: Optional but recommended for gooey texture.
For the Icing
- Cream Cheese – Base for the icing providing creaminess.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing and gives it a smooth texture.
- Vanilla Essence – Provides flavor depth to the icing.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing
Step 1: Prepare Brown Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter, stirring occasionally until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove it from heat and set aside to cool while you prepare the other ingredients. This brown butter will add a rich flavor to your pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Step 2: Activate Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm whole milk (115-120°F), 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 10–15 minutes, or until it’s foamy and bubbly. This step is crucial to ensure your dough rises beautifully and results in soft rolls.
Step 3: Mix Dough
Once the yeast mixture is ready, add the remaining sugar, one large egg, one egg yolk, the cooled brown butter, ¾ cup pumpkin puree, 4 ¾ to 5 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt into the bowl. Stir until combined, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and place it in a warm area. Allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This process infuses the pumpkin cinnamon rolls with the perfect airy texture you desire.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the dough rises, prepare your delicious filling by mixing 1 cup of dark brown sugar, ¼ cup of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice in a bowl. Stir until it forms a thick paste, which will add a delightful spice to your pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Step 6: Roll and Cut Dough
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air, and roll it out on a floured surface into a 20×10 inch rectangle. Spread ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter over the dough, then evenly layer the filling mixture. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, pinch the seam to seal, and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place the sliced rolls in a parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan, spacing them evenly. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350°F. This second rise will ensure your pumpkin cinnamon rolls are wonderfully fluffy.
Step 8: Bake
Once preheated, drizzle the rolls with ⅓ cup of heavy cream for that gooey texture. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown, and the centers spring back lightly when touched. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
Step 9: Prepare Icing
While the rolls are baking, prepare your cream cheese icing. In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla essence, and 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice until smooth and creamy. This icing will be the perfect topping for your warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Step 10: Ice and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese icing over them while still warm. Allow the icing to melt into the rolls for a delightful finish. Serve these pumpkin cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing warm for a cozy treat that everyone will love!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Perfect Dough Texture: Aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough. This ensures your pumpkin cinnamon rolls are fluffy and tender. Don’t hesitate to adjust flour based on humidity!
- Sweetness Balance: Use dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor in the filling. It complements the pumpkin beautifully and avoids overly sweet rolls.
- Temperature Check: Make sure your milk is within 115-120°F when activating the yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast, leading to dense rolls.
- Generous Icing: Don’t skimp on the cream cheese icing! Spread it generously over the warm rolls for a delightful creamy contrast.
- Storage Savvy: Store leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.
- Experiment with Flavor: Consider adding mix-ins like chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture in your pumpkin cinnamon rolls!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the comforting taste of fall without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions through the second rise, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before drizzling with heavy cream and popping them into the oven. This way, you’ll maintain their fluffy texture and delectable flavor, yielding fresh, warm rolls just as delicious as if you made them from scratch that day!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up and make these pumpkin cinnamon rolls your own delightfully unique treat!
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a satisfying crunch that complements the soft rolls beautifully.
- Vegan Version: Substitute dairy ingredients with almond milk and vegan cream cheese to create a deliciously plant-based indulgence.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to enjoy these rolls without sacrificing flavor or texture!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra ginger for a warm, spicy kick that dances on your taste buds.
- Fruity Addition: Toss in some dried cranberries or apple chunks for a fruity twist that enhances the fall flavor profile.
- Lighter Icing: Replace some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy, lower-calorie icing.
- Seasoned Sugar: Swap half of the granulated sugar in the dough with brown sugar for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Doubled Filling: For a more decadent experience, double the filling recipe to ensure every bite is bursting with that delightful spiced pumpkin goodness.
For a cozy breakfast treat, serve these rolls alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee—with leftovers perfect for enjoying throughout the week! If you crave the flavors of fall, don’t forget to try my Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups or bake up a batch of Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake to toast the season!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing
The delightful aroma of autumn wafting through your kitchen will leave everyone yearning for more than just these sweet treats!
- Hot Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the sweet decadence of the rolls, making for a blissful morning ritual. The bitter notes contrast beautifully with the creaminess of the icing.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider spiced with cinnamon and cloves for a festive touch that pairs fantastically with the pumpkin flavors. It’s like autumn in a cup!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of sliced apples, pears, and citrus will cut through the sweetness, adding a burst of freshness to your plate.
- Whipped Cream Topping: For those who love an extra treat, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top of the rolls elevates the dessert vibe.
- Maple Pecans: Toasted pecans drizzled with maple syrup introduce a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the rolls wonderfully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the warm rolls, creating a truly indulgent dessert experience everyone will love!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my pumpkin is ripe for baking?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin for your cinnamon rolls, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and heavy for their size. The skin should have a rich orange color without any dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using canned pumpkin puree, ensure it’s 100% pumpkin without added sugars or spices for the best flavor in your rolls.
What is the best way to store leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls?
Very! Store any leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to keep them soft and moist. A quick warm-up in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds should restore that delightful gooeyness!
Can I freeze pumpkin cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze pumpkin cinnamon rolls for up to 2 months. To do so, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to several factors. First, check that your yeast is active; it should froth when mixed with warm milk. If it doesn’t, your yeast may be expired. Ensure that the temperature of your liquid is within the 115-120°F range—too hot can kill the yeast. Also, make sure you’re allowing it to rise in a warm, draft-free area; a cozy kitchen corner works wonders!
Are these pumpkin cinnamon rolls suitable for those with nut allergies?
Absolutely! This pumpkin cinnamon rolls recipe is nut-free as is. However, it’s essential to ensure that all ingredients used are free from cross-contamination, as many processed foods can have traces of nuts. If you were to add nuts, like pecans or walnuts, consider using alternatives to maintain that nut-free status, such as adding seeds instead for a similar crunch.
Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to adapt the recipe. Use dairy-free butter and milk instead of the regular ones for a dairy-free version. You can also use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option, though adjusting the liquid proportions may be necessary. The rolls will retain their deliciousness while accommodating various diets!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare brown butter by melting ½ cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan until golden brown.
- Activate the yeast by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast, letting it sit until foamy.
- Mix dough by adding remaining ingredients, kneading until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a greased bowl covered with a towel for about 1 hour.
- Prepare filling by mixing brown sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle, spread butter, layer the filling, roll and cut into pieces.
- Let the rolls rise again in a baking pan for 30 minutes while preheating the oven.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare icing by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread icing over warm rolls before serving.
Leave a Reply