Save Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls infused with pumpkin purée and warm spices, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting are perfect for autumn mornings or anytime you crave cozy comfort.
I first made these pumpkin cinnamon rolls on a brisk October morning for my family, and the sweet scent wafted through the house—everyone gathered in the kitchen before they even cooled.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 2 1/4 tsp (7 g, 1 packet) instant yeast, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted, 2/3 cup (160 g) whole milk, lukewarm, 1/2 cup (120 g) pumpkin purée, 1 large egg, room temperature
- Filling: 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
- Cream Cheese Frosting: 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, 1–2 tbsp milk, as needed
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, lukewarm milk, pumpkin purée, and the egg.
- Form and Knead Dough:
- Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic (add a bit more flour if sticky).
- First Rise:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the dough and roll out on a floured surface to a 16x12-inch (40x30 cm) rectangle.
- Prepare Filling:
- For the filling, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle with the sugar mixture.
- Roll and Slice:
- Roll dough tightly from the long side. Cut into 12 even rolls.
- Second Rise:
- Place rolls in a greased 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Cover and let rise 45 minutes, until puffy.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Make Frosting:
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then milk as needed for spreading consistency.
- Finish:
- Spread frosting over warm rolls. Serve fresh.
Save My kids love helping roll up the dough and waiting eagerly by the oven, watching the rolls turn golden and rise with each passing minute.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional), rolling pin, 9x13 inch baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, dough scraper or sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat), dairy, and egg. Potential tree nut allergens if using pecans. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per roll: Calories 295, Total Fat 11 g, Carbohydrates 44 g, Protein 5 g
Save Enjoy these pumpkin cinnamon rolls for a cozy treat with loved ones or share them at your next fall gathering.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, homemade pumpkin purée works well as long as it is thick and not watery. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which is sweetened and spiced.
- → How do I ensure the dough stays soft and airy?
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, and allow it to rise fully. Don't add excessive flour; a slightly tacky dough is best for fluffy rolls.
- → Is it possible to make the rolls ahead of time?
Prepare and cut the rolls, then refrigerate overnight after the second rise. Bake straight from the fridge in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- → What variations can I try with the filling?
Mix in toasted pecans, swap brown sugar for maple sugar, or add finely chopped dried fruit to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- → Can the frosting be made lighter?
Increase the milk in the frosting for a thinner glaze, or use less cream cheese for a lighter consistency. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- → How do I store leftover rolls?
Cool rolls completely, cover tightly, and store at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly to refresh softness.