Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the crisp air of fall settles in, the kitchen becomes my favorite sanctuary, filled with the comforting aroma of baking bread. One of my go-to recipes during this season is Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls with Sage Butter. These delightful dinner rolls boast a fluffy texture and a subtle sweetness from the pumpkin that’s hard to resist. Not only are they an easy addition to family meals, but they also bring a homey, festive touch to any gathering. Perfectly paired with the savory richness of sage butter, these rolls are ready to elevate your dinner table and impress even the pickiest eaters. Curious about how to bring this autumn bliss into your home? Let’s get started on this delicious journey! Why are these rolls a must-bake? Fluffy Texture: These Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls are incredibly light and airy, making each bite a delight. Perfectly fluffy, they practically melt in your mouth. Savory Addition: Infused with savory sage butter, these rolls elevate any dish, pairing seamlessly with soups, stews, or roasted meats. Seasonal Flavor: With pumpkin puree as the star ingredient, they capture the essence of fall, bringing warmth to chilly evenings. Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pro baker; these rolls are simple and forgiving, ideal for beginners and seasoned chefs alike. Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! You can swap pumpkin for sweet potatoes or add spices for a unique twist that suits any gathering. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays or just a cozy family dinner, these rolls are sure to be a hit! Ready to make them? Let’s get baking! Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls Ingredients For the Dough Warm Water – Activates yeast for growth; ensure it’s warm to not kill the yeast. Sugar – Feeds the yeast, helping it to ferment and rise the dough; a sweet touch enhances flavor. Yeast – The leavening agent for soft, fluffy rolls; both active dry and instant yeast work well. Flour – Provides structure; all-purpose flour is recommended for the best results. Salt – Enhances flavor; it’s integral for overall taste, balancing the sweetness of pumpkin. Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and a lovely pumpkin flavor; you can use homemade or canned puree interchangeably. Softened Butter – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough; dairy-free folks can substitute it with vegan butter. For the Sage Butter Butter – Acts as a glaze and enriches flavor; melt it before brushing on the rolls for that perfect shine. Sage (finely chopped) – Infuses a savory, earthy taste; dried sage can be used if fresh is not available. Get ready to savor the delightful taste of these pumpkin pull apart rolls as they fill your home with warmth and happiness! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for https://simply-delicious-food.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Pull-apart-pumpkin-rolls-with-sage-butter-2.jpg Step 1: Prepare Dough In a stand mixer, combine ¾ cup of warm water, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy, indicating the yeast is active. This is a crucial step to ensure your Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls rise beautifully! Step 2: Mix Ingredients Add 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. This process helps to incorporate the dry ingredients without overworking the dough, setting up your rolls for a light and fluffy texture. Step 3: Knead Dough Incorporate ¼ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of pumpkin puree into the mixture. Continue kneading on medium speed for about 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth, soft, and slightly sticky. You may need to adjust with a little more flour if it’s overly sticky—aim for a dough that feels soft and elastic. Step 4: Initial Rise Transfer the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This initial rise is key to achieving those fluffy Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls. Step 5: Shape Rolls Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into about 10 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a ball. Place these delightful ball shapes in a greased loaf pan, ensuring they are nicely touching to create that pull-apart effect. Step 6: Preheat Oven While your shaped rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). It’s essential to have the oven ready to create a lovely golden crust on your Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls. Step 7: Second Rise Cover the loaf pan with a towel and let the rolls proof for another hour, or until they have visibly puffed up. This second rise is important for achieving that perfect soft texture, and you’ll want to see the dough nearly touching the top of the pan. Step 8: Prepare Sage Butter In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter with 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh sage. Mix them together to create a flavorful glaze that will enhance the savory notes of your Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls after baking. Step 9: Bake Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped gently. This is the moment your kitchen will be filled with that irresistible aroma of freshly baked rolls! Step 10: Cooling Once baked, remove the Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls from the oven and brush the tops generously with the prepared sage butter. Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before serving. This cooling time ensures they are tender and easy to pull apart for your guests. How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and helps maintain their soft texture. Fridge: If you need to extend their freshness, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat before serving for the best taste and texture. Freezer: Freeze individual rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag once frozen. They can last for up to 3 months without losing flavor. Reheating: To enjoy your frozen pumpkin pull apart rolls, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls with Sage Butter Imagine filling your home with the tantalizing aroma of baked bread, as you create a complete fall feast that delights all the senses. Savory Soup: A creamy pumpkin or butternut squash soup adds warmth and warmth to your meal, amplifying the pumpkin flavor of the rolls beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots in olive oil. Their caramelized sweetness provides a pleasant contrast to the rolls’ fluffy texture. Hearty Stew: A rich, hearty stew pairs wonderfully, offering a satisfying contrast to the lightness of the rolls, making each bite an adventure of flavor. Crisp Salad: A refreshing arugula or spinach salad with a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate and balances the richness of the rolls and sage butter. Cheesy Baked Pasta: Think lasagna or baked ziti! The cheesy, decadent layers complement the lightness of the Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls, creating a satisfying meal. Mulled Cider: A warm cup of spiced mulled cider brings a festive note to your table, enhancing those autumnal flavors you’re craving. Maple Pecan Pie: End the meal with this beloved dessert; its sweetness harmonizes with the pumpkin while adding a delightful crunch, perfect for fall celebrations. With these pairings, your table will be a cozy haven for family and friends, filled with comforting flavors and inviting aromas that create memories. Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls Warm Water Matters: Use warm (not hot) water to activate the yeast properly; hot water can kill yeast and hinder rising. Stickiness Check: If the dough feels too sticky while kneading, lightly flour your hands and workspace. Avoid over-flouring, as the dough’s texture is key for fluffy rolls. Make Ahead: Planning a family gathering? Prepare the dough the night before, refrigerate it, and let it warm slightly before shaping to ensure optimal rise and flavor. Sage Butter Bliss: Don’t forget to brush the rolls with sage butter right after baking! This extra step enhances flavor and gives the rolls a delightful shine. Perfectly Golden: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake; they should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. This means they’re perfectly cooked! These tips will help you create the best pull apart rolls that are sure to impress your family and friends! Make Ahead Options These Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls with Sage Butter are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and then refrigerating the dough after the first rise. Simply cover it tightly to prevent drying. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping the rolls and allowing for the second rise. Additionally, if you want to prep even further, you can shape the rolls and place them in the greased loaf pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just remember to let them proof for about 30 minutes at room temperature before baking to ensure they’re light and fluffy. Enjoy hassle-free, delightful rolls that are just as delicious, perfectly timed for your busy weeknights! Variations & Substitutions for Dinner Rolls Feel free to experiment and customize these delightful rolls to fit your taste and dietary needs—let your creativity shine! Sweet Potato Twist: Swap pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree for a sweeter flavor and vibrant orange hue. Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced touch that’s perfect for festive dinners. Cheesy Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the dough for a delicious cheesy twist that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes. Herb Infusion: Try swapping sage for fresh rosemary or thyme, giving your rolls a different aromatic profile that’s equally delightful. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these rolls gluten-free. Just ensure your blend includes xanthan gum for proper texture. Coconut Oil Replace: Substitute softened butter with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor. Extra Crunch: Sprinkle the tops of the rolls with sesame or poppy seeds before baking to add a lovely crunch and visual appeal. Maple Glaze: Brush with a mixture of melted butter and maple syrup instead of sage butter for a sweet finish that’s perfect for brunch. These variations not only open up a world of tastes but also allow you to tailor the rolls to suit whatever meal you’re serving. For more inspiration, don’t miss our Pumpkin Bread Recipe or check out our delightful Savory Sage Butter guide for pairing ideas! Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls with Sage Butter Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe pumpkin for this recipe? Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but if you prefer fresh, select a sugar pumpkin (also known as a pie pumpkin). Look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth texture and no dark spots. How should I store leftover pumpkin pull apart rolls? Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, placing them in the refrigerator will extend their life for up to a week. Just be sure to reheat them gently in the oven or air fryer before serving! Can I freeze these rolls? Yes, you can definitely freeze pumpkin pull apart rolls! To freeze, allow the baked rolls to cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. What should I do if my dough is too sticky? If you find your dough to be too sticky while kneading, it’s best to flour your hands and the work surface lightly. Remember, the goal is to keep the dough soft and elastic. Adding too much flour can result in denser rolls, which we want to avoid. If necessary, add small amounts of flour until it reaches that desired soft and slightly sticky texture. Are these rolls safe for people with allergies? Great question! This recipe is vegetarian, but if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, be aware that the rolls contain butter and flour, which could be concerns for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter instead, and for gluten-free rolls, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. How long do these rolls stay fresh? When stored properly, the pumpkin pull apart rolls will remain fresh for about 2 days at room temperature and can last up to a week if refrigerated. If you freeze them right after baking, they can be preserved for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a delightful side on hand for any meal. Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls with Savory Sage Butter These Soft Pumpkin Pull Apart Rolls with Sage Butter are a delightful treat, perfect for autumn gatherings, featuring a fluffy texture and comforting pumpkin flavor. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins Servings: 10 rollsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients3/4 cup warm water Ensure it's warm to activate yeast2 tablespoons sugar Feeds the yeast2 teaspoons yeast Active dry or instant3 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor1 cup pumpkin puree Can be homemade or canned1/4 cup softened butter Richness and tendernessSage Butter Ingredients2 tablespoons butter Melted for glaze1 tablespoon fresh sage Finely chopped Equipment Stand mixerLoaf Pan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a stand mixer, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow to sit for 5 minutes until frothy.Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.Incorporate softened butter and pumpkin puree. Knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.Once risen, punch down the dough, divide into 10 pieces, and shape into balls, placing them in a greased loaf pan.Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).Cover pan with a towel and let rolls rise for another hour.In a bowl, combine melted butter and chopped sage.Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.Brush rolls with sage butter and allow to cool in the pan for 20 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, ensure that the water is warm, and avoid over-flouring while kneading. This will help retain the fluffy texture of the rolls. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!