Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: A Delightful Autumn Treat

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Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect autumn breakfast treat that elevates any morning with their soft, fluffy dough infused with pumpkin and warm spices. This delightful recipe combines all the comforting flavors of fall in a single bite, making it an irresistible option for cozy gatherings or a special weekend brunch. With a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts into the warm rolls, every mouthful feels like a warm hug. Let’s dive into how to create these heavenly rolls!

Why You’ll Love This Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

There are countless reasons to adore these spiced pumpkin rolls. First and foremost, they’re incredibly soft, making them a joy to eat. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a unique flavor profile that stands out from traditional cinnamon rolls. Perfect for fall, these pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls not only taste amazing but also fill your home with a comforting aroma. Furthermore, they can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated later, making them a versatile breakfast option. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly and can even be adapted for vegan diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy them! Lastly, the best pumpkin cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting add that extra touch of sweetness that makes them truly special.

Ingredients for Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Gather these items:

¾ cup (177ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant dry yeast
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon for yeast
2 tablespoons browned butter, melted and slightly cooled
⅔ cup (158g) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), at room temperature
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon dry milk powder
4 ½ – 5 cups (540-600g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
Pinch of salt

How to Make Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm water, 1 tsp granulated sugar, and instant dry yeast. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar, browned butter, pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla extract, and dry milk powder. Whisk well.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing with a dough hook on low-medium speed for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour (up to ½ cup) if too sticky.
Step 3: Lightly grease a large bowl, place dough in it, turning once. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until a uniform paste forms.
Step 5: Punch down dough and roll into an 18×12 inch (45×30 cm) rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread filling evenly, leaving a ½-inch border on one long edge. Tightly roll dough into a log from the opposite long edge.
Step 6: Slice the log into 12 equally sized rolls (about 1 ½ inches thick) using a sharp knife or dental floss. Arrange cut-side up in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving space between rolls.
Step 7: Cover the dish loosely and let rolls rise in a warm, draft-free place for 30-45 minutes, or until visibly puffed and touching.
Step 8: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove cover and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly. Cool in dish for 10-15 minutes.
Step 9: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, then vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth. Add milk/cream if needed for desired consistency.
Step 10: Generously spread frosting over slightly warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Serve immediately. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for a day or refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in microwave for best experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Keep these in mind:

Ensure water is warm, not hot, to activate yeast.
Use pure pumpkin puree for best flavor.
Let rolls cool slightly before frosting for better spreadability.
For a twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.

Best Ways to Serve Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These delicious rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation. They also pair wonderfully with a pumpkin spice latte or hot apple cider, making your fall mornings extra special. For a twist, try them with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat!

How to Store and Reheat Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To store your homemade pumpkin cinnamon rolls, keep them covered at room temperature for up to one day or in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. This ensures that they retain their soft texture and delightful flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

What’s the secret to perfect Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

The secret to achieving the perfect cinnamon rolls with pumpkin filling lies in properly activating your yeast and allowing the dough to rise adequately. Ensure your water temperature is between 105°F to 115°F. This will yield a soft and fluffy roll that has the right texture.

Can I make Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Simply roll the dough and cut the rolls, then refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them rise for about 30-45 minutes before baking, and enjoy freshly baked rolls!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you measure your flour accurately, as too much can lead to dense rolls. Also, don’t skip the rising times; they are crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. Lastly, remember to let the rolls cool slightly before frosting to prevent the icing from melting away.

Variations of Warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegan Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Substitute the egg and dairy with plant-based alternatives.
Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls: Add a layer of pumpkin pie filling on top of the cinnamon sugar filling for an extra pumpkin flavor.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Pecans: Add chopped pecans to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Pumpkin Spice Roll-Ups: Use the same dough to create roll-ups filled with your choice of sweet or savory fillings.

For more delicious pumpkin recipes, check out Pumpkin Patch Cookies or Pumpkin Spice Brownies. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert, try Cranberry Custard Pie for a unique twist!