Irresistible Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for Cozy Mornings

Imagine walking into a cozy kitchen, the warm aroma of pumpkin cinnamon rolls wafting through the air, enveloping you like a soft, fluffy hug. The smell of sweet cinnamon mixed with the earthy scent of pumpkin is not just food; it’s an experience. Picture yourself biting into a warm roll, where the tender dough melts in your mouth, and the rich frosting adds just the right touch of sweetness. This isn’t just breakfast; this is a celebration of fall flavors that make your heart skip a beat.

These pumpkin cinnamon rolls have been a staple in my home for years, especially during those crisp autumn mornings when all you want is something that feels like a hug from grandma. I remember one Sunday morning when my kids woke up to these rolls fresh out of the oven. Their sleepy faces turned into bright smiles faster than you can say “pumpkin spice.” These rolls are perfect for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or simply indulging in a quiet moment with your favorite coffee.

Sometimes, I wonder if my friends come over for me or just for these rolls.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Choose unbleached flour for better flavor and texture in your dough.

• Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree without additives for convenience and consistency.

• Brown Sugar: This adds richness and depth to your filling; dark brown sugar works best.

• Cinnamon: The star spice here! Freshly ground gives a more vibrant flavor.

• Yeast: Active dry yeast works perfectly for achieving fluffy rolls; check expiration dates.

• Milk: Use whole milk for richer dough; warm it slightly to activate yeast.

• Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal; it allows better control over salt levels in the recipe.

• Eggs: Large eggs help bind everything together; they should be at room temperature for best results.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances flavor; use pure vanilla extract whenever possible.

• Powdered Sugar: Essential for frosting; sift it to avoid lumps in your glaze.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preparing these pumpkin cinnamon rolls is easier than convincing yourself that you don’t need another one (spoiler alert: you will).

Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar; sprinkle yeast on top and let it bloom until frothy—about five minutes should do the trick. Then add flour, melted butter, eggs, and pumpkin puree until well combined.

Knead Away: Transfer the sticky dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you’re anything like me, this also counts as cardio.

Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—around 1 hour should work if you can resist peeking every five minutes.

Prepare Filling: While waiting (and possibly snacking on leftover Halloween candy), mix brown sugar with cinnamon and softened butter until spreadable—this is where dreams start taking shape.

Roll It Out: Once risen, punch down the dough (it’s super satisfying) and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread filling evenly within sight of your taste buds.

Cut into Rolls: Starting from one long edge, roll tightly into a log then slice into equal pieces with dental floss or a sharp knife—no fancy equipment needed! Place them snugly in a greased baking dish.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake those beauties for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and gloriously puffed up—a smell that’ll have everyone asking what’s cooking!

Enjoying homemade pumpkin cinnamon rolls isn’t just about eating; it’s an experience filled with love and laughter that warms both heart and home.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing dry ingredients, then combine with wet. Knead until dough is smooth, then let it rise until doubled. Roll out, fill with cinnamon sugar, and bake until golden brown for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap traditional icing with cream cheese frosting or add nuts for crunch. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to elevate the flavor profile to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to retain their soft texture.

I once made these pumpkin cinnamon rolls for a family gathering, and they vanished faster than I could say “pumpkin spice.” Everyone raved about them, especially my grandmother who claimed they were “better than her secret recipe.”

FAQ

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe, providing great flavor and moisture.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size; poke it gently, and if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Can I freeze pumpkin cinnamon rolls?

Yes! Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them; just thaw and let them rise before baking.

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Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

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Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful pumpkin cinnamon rolls. Soft, pillowy dough swirled with rich pumpkin and warm spices, these rolls are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that makes every bite a celebration. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat during chilly autumn evenings, they evoke cherished memories of family gatherings and festive mornings. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (dark preferred)
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar; sprinkle yeast on top and let bloom for about five minutes.
2. Add flour, melted butter, eggs, and pumpkin puree; combine until smooth.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Let the dough rise in a greased bowl covered with a towel for about 1 hour or until doubled.
5. Prepare filling by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter.
6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread filling evenly, and roll tightly into a log.
7. Cut into rolls and place in a greased baking dish; allow to rise again for about 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
9. Allow to cool slightly before topping with frosting made from powdered sugar and vanilla mixed with a little milk.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (90g)
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg