Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Make Them Now or Save for Later!

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Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls (Make Right Now or Make Ahead)

  • Rich pumpkin flavor with warm spices that evoke cozy autumn vibes.
  • Quick prep time of just 30 minutes, so you can whip them up in no time!
  • Perfect for breakfast or dessert, making them a versatile treat.
  • Budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank.
  • Can be made ahead for convenience, perfect for busy mornings.
  • Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Great for sharing with family and friends during gatherings.
  • Versatile for any season, not just fall!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. I still remember the first time I made these rolls for a family gathering; the sweet aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin wafted through the house, drawing everyone into the kitchen like a cozy hug. As I pulled them out of the oven, the golden-brown swirls glistened with melted butter, and the creamy frosting was just waiting to be drizzled on top. The soft, fluffy texture paired with that rich, spiced flavor made them an instant hit, disappearing faster than I could say “pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls.” Whether you want to indulge right now or prepare them ahead of time for a special brunch, these rolls are perfect for any moment. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again! Let’s get cooking!

  • Rich pumpkin flavor with warm spices that evoke cozy autumn vibes.
  • Quick prep time of just 30 minutes, so you can whip them up in no time!
  • Perfect for breakfast or dessert, making them a versatile treat.
  • Budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank.
  • Can be made ahead for convenience, perfect for busy mornings.
  • Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Great for sharing with family and friends during gatherings.
  • Versatile for any season, not just fall!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast (1 standard American package)
  • 6oz (¾ cup) warm water
  • 50 grams (¼ cup) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter, browned
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon dry milk powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 5.3oz (⅔ cup) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 406 grams-468 grams (3 ¼-3 ¾ cup) all-purpose flour
  • 150 grams (¾ cup) brown sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 3oz (6 tablespoons) butter, browned
  • 4oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 2oz (¼ cup) browned butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 180 grams (1 ½ cups) confectioners sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

  1. Step 1: Start by browning the butter. Melt 15 tablespoons in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns a lovely golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Set aside what you need for the dough and filling.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, and pumpkin puree with the yeast mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
  4. Step 4: Gradually add the flour and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until the dough is mostly combined. Then, knead the dough for about 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Trust me, this is where the magic happens!
  5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C), then turn it off. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in the warm oven until it doubles in size—about 45 minutes to an hour.
  6. Step 6: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out into a 16×14 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  7. Step 7: Brush the rolled dough with the remaining melted browned butter and sprinkle generously with the sugar mixture.
  8. Step 8: Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut it into 12 equal pieces. Place these delightful rolls in a greased baking dish.
  9. Step 9: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, or let the rolls rise until they double in size if you’re baking them right away.
  10. Step 10: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the rolls for 22-27 minutes until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
  11. Step 11: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by mixing the softened cream cheese and browned butter together. Then add the vanilla, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
  12. Step 12: Once the rolls are out of the oven, frost them while they’re still warm, allowing the frosting to melt into all those delicious swirls. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy flavors!

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To elevate your pumpkin cinnamon rolls to the next level, here are some pro tips that I swear by:

  • Always use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor. It makes a world of difference compared to canned pumpkin pie filling!
  • Allow the dough to rise in a warm place, like your oven with just the light on. This helps it rise beautifully and become fluffy.
  • Don’t skip the browning of the butter; it adds a rich, nutty depth to the flavor that you’ll absolutely love.
  • For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for a delightful crunch.
  • Make sure to frost the rolls while they’re still warm so the creamy frosting melts into every delicious swirl.

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

The secret is in the browning of the butter; it enhances the nutty flavor profile and adds a richness that makes these rolls irresistible!

Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just let it come to room temperature and rise before popping it in the oven.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and active; check the expiration date before use. If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to inactive yeast. Also, don’t over-knead the dough; it should be soft and slightly tacky, not tough!

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

There’s nothing quite like enjoying pumpkin cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven! Serve them warm with a generous drizzle of creamy frosting on top, allowing it to melt into those fluffy swirls. They pair perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea, making for a cozy breakfast that feels like a warm hug. These delightful rolls are also fantastic for brunch gatherings or holiday celebrations, where they’ll surely steal the show. Trust me, your friends and family will be coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Enjoy every bite!

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

When you indulge in these delightful pumpkin cinnamon rolls, you can enjoy them guilt-free! Here’s the estimated nutrition breakdown per serving (1 roll):

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 200mg

Keep in mind, this is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Storing your delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls properly is key to keeping them fresh and tasty! After they’ve cooled completely, place any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay delightful for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked goodness and make your kitchen smell heavenly all over again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Got questions about making the perfect pumpkin cinnamon rolls? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can! Whole wheat flour will give your rolls a nuttier flavor and a denser texture. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

What can I substitute for the cream cheese in the frosting?

If you’re looking for a cream cheese alternative, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

Your pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls are done when they’re golden brown on top and have risen beautifully. You can also do the toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready to enjoy!

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch, while raisins or dried cranberries can bring a sweet burst of flavor. Just sprinkle them over the sugar mixture before rolling up the dough for a tasty surprise in every bite!

Variations of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of fun ways to switch up your pumpkin cinnamon rolls! Here are a few variations to consider:

  • Gluten-Free: Make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. It works beautifully and everyone can enjoy them!
  • Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet twist that will satisfy any chocolate craving.
  • Maple Glaze: Try a maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting for a delightful change in flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
  • Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and depth in flavor.

These variations will keep your pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls exciting and fresh every time you make them!

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Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls (Make Right Now or Make Ahead)

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Make Them Now or Save for Later!


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  • Author: hanan
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls that can be made right now or prepared ahead of time for a delightful treat.


Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ Teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast (1 Standard American Package)
  • 6oz (¾ Cup) Warm Water
  • 50 grams (¼ 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 (⅔ Cup) Pure Pumpkin Puree (Not Pumpkin Pie Filling)
  • 1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
  • 406 grams– 468 Grams (3 ¼3 ¾ Cup) All-Purpose Flour/ Plain Flour
  • 150 grams (¾ Cup) Brown Sugar
  • 1 ½ Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 ½ Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
  • 3oz (6 Tablespoons) Butter, browned
  • 4oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 2oz (¼ Cup) Browned Butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
  • 180 grams (1 ½ Cups) Confectioners Sugar/ Powdered Sugar

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter by melting 15 tablespoons and set aside what you need for the dough and filling.
  2. Dissolve yeast in warm water and let sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Add sugar, browned butter, egg, milk powder, salt, and pumpkin puree to the yeast mixture and mix until combined.
  4. Add flour and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until mostly combined, then knead the dough for 8 minutes.
  5. Preheat the oven to 200F/93C, turn it off, and place the dough in a greased bowl to rise.
  6. Check the dough after 45 minutes to an hour; it should double in size.
  7. Punch down the dough and roll it into a 16×14 inch rectangle.
  8. Brush with melted browned butter and sprinkle with the sugar mixture.
  9. Roll tightly and cut into 12 pieces, placing them in a baking dish.
  10. Cover and refrigerate overnight or let rise until doubled in size.
  11. Preheat oven to 350F/180C and bake for 22-27 minutes.
  12. Prepare the frosting while the rolls bake by mixing cream cheese and brown butter, then adding vanilla, heavy cream, and powdered sugar.
  13. Frost the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an air-tight container for up to 3 days.
  • Best served immediately for optimal taste.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 27 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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