Name: Delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Frosting
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 162 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (Avoid spiced versions); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (Sweetens the dough); 1/2 cup brown sugar (Light or dark, enhances caramel flavor); 15 tablespoons unsalted butter (Browned for extra depth); 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (Ensure freshness); 1/4 cup milk powder (Adds tenderness); 1 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness); 8 ounces cream cheese (Can be swapped with mascarpone); 15 tablespoons brown butter (Use leftover from rolls); 2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar (For smooth frosting)

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As the leaves turn and the air fills with the scent of cinnamon, I find myself reaching for a cozy recipe that captures the essence of fall. Enter these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting—a treat that will fill your kitchen with warmth and joy. Made with pure pumpkin puree, this recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and spice that brings comfort to any breakfast or brunch table. The first perk? They can be prepared ahead of time, making your mornings effortlessly delicious. Plus, imagine pulling apart fluffy, soft rolls, each swirled with a sweet brown sugar filling and topped with that smooth, nutty frosting. Wouldn’t that make your heart sing? So, are you ready to dive into the world of homemade cinnamon rolls and elevate your autumn baking? Let’s get started!

Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls irresistible?

Warm, Cozy Vibes: These rolls are perfect for embracing the fall spirit, filling your home with delightful aromas.
Made Ahead Ease: Prepare them the night before and bake them fresh in the morning—no stress on busy days!
Decadent Frosting: The rich brown butter cream cheese frosting takes each roll to gourmet heights.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast staple or a sweet snack; they fit every occasion.
Comforting Delight: Fluffy, soft, and bursting with pumpkin flavor, they’re the ultimate indulgence for autumn lovers!

Imagine savoring these with a cup of coffee, or perhaps paired with Cider Pumpkin Waffles for the perfect cozy brunch!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

• Get ready to gather everything you need for these delightful treats!

For the Rolls

Pure Pumpkin Puree – This is key for moisture and gives these rolls their signature pumpkin flavor; avoid spiced versions!
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough beautifully; it’s best kept as is for optimal sweetness.
Brown Sugar – This enhances the rolls with a heavenly caramel flavor; you can use light or dark, depending on your preference.
Butter – Richness is essential here; opt for unsalted butter and brown it to bring out extra depth.
Active Dry Yeast – A must-have for the rolls to rise; make sure it’s fresh, or grab instant yeast for quicker results.
Milk Powder – Adds tenderness and moisture; if you don’t have it, warming some milk can do the trick.
Salt – Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Adds creamy goodness and a slight tang; feel free to swap it with mascarpone for a different twist.
Brown Butter – Use the leftover browned butter from the rolls for a nutty flavor in your frosting.
Confectioners’ Sugar – This sweetens the frosting to the perfect creamy consistency; sifted is best for a smooth finish.

Embrace your inner chef and get excited about making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! Just imagine the cozy atmosphere they will create in your home.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Butter
Start by browning 15 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reaches a nutty aroma and golden brown color, about 5-7 minutes. Remove it from heat and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the dough. This step adds rich flavor to your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 2: Make Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of warm water, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes or until frothy. Then mix in 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree, the browned butter, 1/4 cup of milk powder, and about 4 cups of all-purpose flour to form a soft dough. Knead the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm area and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. To check if it’s ready, lightly poke the dough; it should hold a slight impression. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 4: Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread melted browned butter over the surface, then sprinkle a mixture of 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice evenly on top. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside, then pinch the seams to seal.

Step 5: Cut Rolls
Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces, about 1-1.5 inches thick. Arrange these rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, allowing enough space for them to expand. As you prepare the rolls, you can enjoy the warm, inviting aromas already filling your kitchen from the Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the arranged rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow them to rise in a warm area for another 30-45 minutes, until they have puffed up significantly. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising, setting the stage for baking these delightful treats.

Step 7: Bake
Once the rolls have risen, place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-27 minutes or until they are golden brown and the tops feel firm to the touch. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls bake. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting
While the rolls are baking, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and the leftover browned butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 2 cups of sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing until well combined. Once the rolls are out of the oven, generously spread this luscious frosting over the warm rolls for an indulgent finish.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls and make them uniquely yours!

Sweet Potato Substitute: Swap out pumpkin for mashed sweet potatoes for a delightful twist on flavor.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the rolls.
Chocolate Surprise: Stir in chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise in every bite—because chocolate makes everything better!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a cozy, spicier flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese with a coconut-based alternative for frosting, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat without worries.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze instead of frosting to enhance the sweetness while keeping it light—perfect for autumn breakfast.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle the tops of the rolls with a cinnamon-sugar mix for an extra sweet crust to enjoy.
Serve With: These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are wonderful paired with a warm drink, like a chai latte or even alongside Cider Pumpkin Waffles for an autumn-inspired brunch.

With these adaptations, you can bring your own flair to this beloved recipe!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness on a busy morning. You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by completing all steps except the final rise and bake. After cutting the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for fluffy texture. For a longer storage option, you can freeze sliced rolls for up to 3 days; just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and allow them to rise before baking. With these make-ahead options, you can savor deliciously fragrant rolls with minimal effort on hectic mornings!

Helpful Tricks for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Stay Fresh: Always check your active dry yeast is fresh; expired yeast can lead to flat rolls.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your dough rises in a warm area; a drafty spot can hinder its growth.
Perfect Butter: Brown your butter slowly to avoid burning; it should smell nutty, not bitter.
Room Temp Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese sit out before mixing; this prevents lumps in your frosting.
Cover for Warmth: Cover rising dough with a damp cloth to keep moisture in; this helps achieve soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To create a cozy fall feast, consider pairing these sweet, pumpkin-spiced rolls with delightful sides that enhance their warmth and flavor.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes makes a delightful contrast to the fluffy cinnamon rolls, creating a heartwarming meal.
Maple-Glazed Bacon: The sweet and smoky flavors of this bacon complement the cinnamon in the rolls, making breakfast a treat. Picture it stacked on your plate beside that warm roll!
Spiced Chai Latte: This aromatic drink, with its notes of cardamom and cinnamon, enhances the festive feel and pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavors.
Apple Pie or Crisp: The classic dessert resonates with autumn vibes and balances the sweetness of the rolls with tart apple flavors.
Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing: Fresh flavors brighten up the plate, cutting through the richness of the rolls and adding a refreshing touch.
Warm Apple Cider: Sipping on this delicious beverage adds to the cozy atmosphere while providing a sweet, spicy companion for your rolls.
Pecan Crumble Topping: Consider sprinkling this crunchy topping over your rolls for added texture and nutty flavor that enhances the comforting dish.
Whipped Cream Cheese Dip: For a fun twist, serve this dip with fresh fruit slices, offering a light contrast to the decadent rolls.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Leave baked rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel to retain moisture and warmth.

Fridge: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and let rise before baking.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, use pure pumpkin puree—avoid spiced varieties or pumpkin pie filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own puree from roasted pumpkins!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Leftover rolls can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with a clean kitchen towel to maintain moisture. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—simply pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to enjoy warm.

Can I freeze my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! After slicing your rolls, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a resealable bag and store for up to 3 months. To bake, just thaw in the fridge overnight and allow them to rise before popping them in the oven.

What should I do if my rolls don’t rise?
If your rolls are not rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always check if your active dry yeast is fresh—bloom it in warm water with sugar before using. Ensure your dough is kept in a warm, draft-free area while rising; using an instant-read thermometer can help you gauge the ideal temperature for achieving that perfect rise.

Can I make substitutions in the recipe?
Yes! For a different flavor twist, you can substitute pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash. For allergies, ensure that any substitute ingredients, like cream cheese, are safe for dietary needs. You might also consider using non-dairy butter for the frosting if lactose-free.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Feel free to enhance the spice profile by adding extra spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the dough or filling! If you enjoy a more aromatic flavor, even a pinch of cloves or ginger can make your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls uniquely yours.