Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat for a cozy fall morning or a festive gathering. These delightful rolls combine the warm spices of cinnamon and cardamom with the rich flavor of pumpkin, creating a soft and fluffy brioche dough. Each bite is a sweet embrace of autumn, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply indulging yourself, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are sure to impress with their unique flavor and gooey cream cheese icing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices makes each roll bursting with autumnal goodness.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert – they fit any occasion!
• Fun to Make: Kneading and rolling the dough can be a fun activity for the whole family.
• Gooey Icing: The coffee maple cream cheese icing takes these rolls to another level of deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier and saves time.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness when rolling out your dough.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even baking for your rolls, resulting in a golden finish.

Ingredients

For these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, you will need:

For the Dough

• One 425g can Pumpkin Puree (See body of post for making your own)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 150g whole milk, lukewarm
• 4 Tbsp (50g) brown sugar
• 565g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 140g reduced pumpkin puree
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 120g unsalted butter, at room temperature

For the Filling

• 225g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 360g light or dark brown sugar
• 115g reduced pumpkin puree
• 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp ground cardamom
• pinch of salt

For the Icing

• 165g cream cheese, at room temperature
• 75g butter, at room temperature
• 275g powdered sugar, sifted
• 75g maple syrup
• 2 tsp espresso powder
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1 /2 tsp vanilla bean paste

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit until foamy.
2. Add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla bean paste, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Step 2: Let It Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth.
2. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter with brown sugar, reduced pumpkin puree, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
2. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

1. After rising, punch down the dough on a floured surface.
2. Roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Step 5: Spread Filling & Roll Up

1. Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
2. Starting from one edge, carefully roll up the dough tightly into a log shape.

Step 6: Cut & Prepare for Baking

1. Slice the rolled dough into equal pieces (about 12).
2. Place rolls in a greased baking dish; cover with plastic wrap and let rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Make Icing

1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese with butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing; then add maple syrup and espresso powder until creamy.

Step 9: Frost & Serve

1. Once rolls are baked and slightly cooled, generously drizzle with icing.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy gathering, these soft, sweet rolls can be paired perfectly with a few thoughtful additions.

Coffee Pairings

• Brewed Coffee: A classic choice that complements the sweetness and spice of the rolls.
• Espresso: For a richer flavor that balances the creaminess of the icing.

Toppings and Spreads

• Maple Syrup Drizzle: Adds an extra layer of sweetness and autumn flavor.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: A thicker layer of frosting can elevate the flavors even more.

Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Apples: Tart apples provide a refreshing contrast to the rich rolls.
• Berries: Fresh blueberries or raspberries add a splash of color and tartness.

Seasonal Drinks

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: A trendy fall beverage that pairs well with your pumpkin-themed dish.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai enhance the cinnamon notes in the rolls.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls involves attention to detail in both preparation and baking. Here are some tips for achieving the best results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh spices and high-quality butter can make a significant difference in taste.
• Check Yeast Freshness: Ensure your active dry yeast is not expired for optimal rise.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and butter to reach room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smooth dough.
• Knead Properly: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic; this ensures a fluffy texture.
• Don’t Rush Proofing: Letting the dough rise adequately develops flavor and texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake; underbaking can mean gooey centers, while overbaking dries them out.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein to balance the sweetness.
2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory touch that contrasts beautifully with sweet rolls.
3. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits creates a refreshing side that complements cinnamon flavors.
4. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits refreshes your palate between bites of rich cinnamon rolls.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A creamy smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a healthy, vibrant option.
6. Oatmeal with Nuts: Warm oatmeal topped with nuts brings warmth and heartiness alongside sweet rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes may hinder your results.

• Ignoring dough temperature: Ensure your ingredients, especially liquids, are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can make the dough dense and less fluffy.
• Over or under-kneading the dough: Knead until smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, while under-kneading results in a sticky texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid too much flour. Excess flour can lead to dry rolls.
• Skipping the second rise: Allowing the dough to rise twice enhances its flavor and texture. Skipping this step can result in denser rolls.
• Rushing the baking process: Bake until golden brown for best results. Not baking long enough can leave doughy centers.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds per roll for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet with a lid over low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls special?

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls feature both pumpkin puree in the dough and filling, creating a unique flavor that’s perfect for fall.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can easily substitute homemade pumpkin puree for canned. Just ensure it’s well-cooked and pureed.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for extra texture and flavor!

What’s the best way to serve these rolls?

Serve warm with coffee or tea, topped with cream cheese icing, for a cozy treat any time of day.

How can I store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines comforting flavors with soft, gooey textures. They’re perfect as breakfast pastries or a sweet dessert. Experiment by adding different spices or toppings to make them your own!