Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are the ultimate treat that combines the comforting flavors of fall with a fluffy, sweet indulgence. Imagine biting into a soft roll filled with warm pumpkin and aromatic spices, topped with creamy glaze—pure bliss.

Every time I whip up these pumpkin cinnamon rolls, I’m transported back to cozy family gatherings where laughter and delicious aromas filled the air. Whether it’s a chilly autumn morning or a festive holiday breakfast, these rolls promise to be a hit that leaves everyone wanting more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These pumpkin cinnamon rolls are easy to make, perfect for any occasion
- They deliver an irresistible flavor combination of pumpkin and spice
- The visual appeal will brighten up your breakfast table, and they’re versatile enough to enjoy anytime!
When I first made these rolls for my family, their delighted faces as they took that first bite were priceless. It was a moment that solidified my lifelong love affair with baking.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-purpose Flour: A staple in baking; measure carefully for the perfect roll texture.
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Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade; it should be thick and flavorful for best results.
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Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
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Brown Sugar: For a deeper caramel flavor in the filling; dark brown works wonders here.
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Cinnamon: The star spice in this recipe; fresh ground offers the most aroma and flavor.
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Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds warmth; don’t skip this essential spice for depth!
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Yeast: Active dry yeast is preferred; it helps achieve that fluffy texture we love.
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Milk: Warmed to activate yeast; whole milk gives richness but any milk works fine.
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Butter: Melted butter enhances flavor in both dough and glaze; use unsalted for balance.
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Eggs: Adds richness and binds the ingredients together for a delightful texture.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the flavor profile; use pure extract if possible.
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Powdered Sugar: Essential for the glaze; sift before mixing for smoothness.
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Cream Cheese: Optional but recommended for an extra creamy glaze that pairs perfectly!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together!
Prepare Your Dough: Start by warming milk until just warm to touch—about 110°F (43°C). In a bowl, sprinkle yeast over warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Add Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into your yeast mixture along with melted butter and eggs. Stir until combined.
Knead the Dough: Transfer dough onto a floured surface. Knead gently for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic—this is where the magic happens!
Let It Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 1 hour. This step creates those fluffy rolls we adore.
Create That Filling: While waiting, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. Once dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
Add Filling & Roll Up: Spread your buttery mixture evenly over the dough rectangle. Roll tightly from one end to another and slice into even pieces—this is truly satisfying!
Bake Your Rolls: Arrange slices in a greased baking dish. Cover them again while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown—a heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen!
Create Your Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with cream cheese (if using) and vanilla extract in another bowl. Drizzle over warm rolls once they come out of the oven—this is when they transform into something magical!
Now you have your very own batch of pumpkin cinnamon rolls ready to devour! Enjoy every gooey bite while soaking up that cozy fall vibe!
You Must Know
- The secret to fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls lies in letting the dough rise properly
- A warm kitchen helps activate yeast, so consider preheating your oven briefly and turning it off
- The aroma while baking will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dry ingredients, then add wet ingredients gradually for a smooth dough. Knead until elastic, then let it rise in a warm place. This method ensures fluffy rolls that are easy to work with and full of flavor.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. You could also swap regular frosting for cream cheese icing or drizzle chocolate on top for a sweet twist. Personalizing these rolls makes them truly yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their soft texture without drying them out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh yeast for optimal rise and flavor; expired yeast can lead to flat results
- When kneading, aim for a soft but not sticky dough to ensure perfect texture
- Lastly, resist the urge to rush the rising process; patience yields better rolls!
Baking these pumpkin cinnamon rolls reminds me of my childhood Sunday mornings when we’d wake up to the smell of spices wafting through the house. My dad would let me sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top while he rolled up the dough—such sweet memories!
FAQ
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and your kitchen is warm enough during rising.
Can I freeze pumpkin cinnamon rolls?
Yes, freeze unbaked rolls before rising or baked ones after cooling completely.
How do I make these dairy-free?
Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are a delightful autumn treat that combine the warmth of pumpkin and spices with a fluffy, sweet dough. Perfect for cozy gatherings or festive mornings, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. With a gooey filling and a creamy glaze, each bite is an indulgence that captures the essence of fall. Enjoy the process of creating these delicious treats as you fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 4 oz cream cheese (optional, for glaze)
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: In a bowl, sprinkle yeast over warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In another bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Combine with yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until combined.
- Knead Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled.
- Make Filling: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. Roll out risen dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Add Filling & Roll: Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Roll tightly from one end to another and slice into even pieces.
- Bake Rolls: Arrange slices in a greased baking dish. Cover while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Create Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with cream cheese (if using) and vanilla extract. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (80g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg