Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you are ready to embrace the flavors of autumn in a truly irresistible way, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are exactly what you need. Velvety pumpkin puree meets the warm embrace of cinnamon and brown sugar, all wrapped inside a soft, tender dough. Every bite melts in your mouth with a luscious cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the spices. These rolls aren’t just a treat—they’re a celebration of fall’s cozy spirit and a must-have for anyone who loves baking comfort food that tastes as good as it looks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is wonderfully straightforward. Each one lends a vital role to create the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma that will fill your kitchen with pure comfort.

• Whole milk (¾ cup, warm): The warm milk activates the yeast and helps create tender dough.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Feeds the yeast and adds just the right sweetness in the dough.
• Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp): Essential for making the dough rise into fluffy perfection.
• Pumpkin purée (½ cup): Adds moisture, a subtle sweetness, and that gorgeous autumn hue.
• Large egg (1): Binds the dough ingredients and adds richness.
• Unsalted butter (¼ cup melted + ½ cup softened): Melted butter enriches the dough, and softened butter is key for that luscious filling.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups): Gives structure to the rolls and makes them soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling.
• Brown sugar (¾ cup): Adds deep caramel notes to the cinnamon filling.
• Cinnamon (2 tbsp): The defining spice that makes these rolls warm and irresistible.
• Cream cheese (4 oz): Creates a creamy, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the sweet rolls.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the frosting without graininess, for smooth spreading.
• Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Boosts the flavor profile of the frosting with aromatic warmth.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls by mixing the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy. This is the yeast waking up and the first sign that your rolls are on their way to being fluffy and light.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Once your yeast mixture is ready, stir in the pumpkin purée, egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add the flour while mixing to form a soft dough. Knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading is essential for developing gluten, which gives your rolls that perfect soft yet structured texture.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This rise time allows all your ingredients to harmonize and the dough to become wonderfully airy.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling and Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly across the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture liberally on top. This filling is where the magic of warm spices truly shines through.

Step 5: Roll and Slice

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the edge to seal. Slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Place each roll into a greased baking pan, cut side up, leaving a little space for them to expand.

Step 6: Second Rise and Bake

Cover the pan and let the rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and the aroma fills your home with that iconic scent of cinnamon and pumpkin.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat together the butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls come out warm from the oven, generously spread this frosting on top, letting it soften and melt into every crack and curve.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

For an extra touch of charm and texture, sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the frosting. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup also brightens and deepens the flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a star on their own but pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment for a cozy vibe. You can also build a tempting breakfast “board” featuring mini jars of honey, whipped cream, and a variety of nuts to allow everyone to customize their rolls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though you might not!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the rolls soft and the frosting creamy without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked rolls before adding frosting by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual rolls in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Add fresh frosting after warming for that just-baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin purée for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly in these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls and provides consistent moisture and flavor.

Is it okay to substitute the all-purpose flour?

You can try whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste, but the texture will be denser. For best results, stick with all-purpose flour unless you want a hearty variation.

Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes! After the first rise, punch the dough down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and preparing the filling.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?

You can swap cream cheese with mascarpone or even use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, though cream cheese adds that signature tang.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and feel springy to the touch. If you peek inside, the center should be cooked but still soft and tender.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch or gearing up for a festive fall gathering, these rolls bring joy and satisfy those cozy cravings in the best possible way. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience that wonderful feeling of homemade goodness melting in every bite.