The aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me back to cozy autumn mornings. As I whip up a batch of Warm Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, I can’t help but feel the excitement bubbling within. This recipe combines fluffy cinnamon dough with luxurious pumpkin cream cheese frosting, making each bite a celebration of fall. Perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a sweet treat to share, these rolls promise to warm your heart and home. Not only do they bring everyone together for a fun baking adventure, but they also provide a deliciously comforting option that’s far better than any fast food! Are you ready to create a memorable moment in your kitchen?
Why are these cinnamon rolls a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy pumpkin frosting complements the warm spices, creating a sweet and rich experience in every bite.
Welcoming Aroma: Your kitchen will fill with an inviting scent that embodies the essence of fall, enticing everyone to gather around.
Family Fun: This recipe encourages family bonding; kids will love getting their hands messy while rolling and frosting!
Easy to Make: Even novice bakers can succeed, as the process is straightforward and rewarding.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them fresh for breakfast or serve as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea. Once you’ve mastered these, you might also want to try making Bake Banana Cream or Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger for a delicious variety of flavors!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Milk – Activates the yeast and provides moisture; use whole or 2% milk, warmed to 100-110°F.
• Active Dry Yeast – Causes dough to rise; ensure it’s fresh and test with warm milk and sugar.
• Sugar – Sweetens the dough and aids in yeast activation; regular or cane sugar works well.
• Pumpkin Puree – Adds flavor and moisture; homemade puree is a great substitute if needed.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; consider a gluten-free flour blend for a different option.
• Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor for a well-rounded taste.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the dough with warm spices; can substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy flavor—an essential ingredient in cinnamon rolls.
• Egg – Binds the dough and adds richness; flaxseed meal is a suitable vegan substitute.
• Butter (softened & melted) – Enhances the flavor and contributes to a soft texture.
For the Filling
• Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and adds a nice caramel flavor to the filling.
• Cinnamon – Deepens the flavor profile of the filling; don’t skip this essential spice.
For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Provides a rich and creamy base for the frosting; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Butter – Adds richness to the frosting; softened is best for smooth blending.
• Pumpkin Puree – A delightful addition; it enhances the pumpkin flavor in the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the frosting’s flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives structure to the frosting; essential for the creamy texture.
• Cinnamon – A touch of warmth to complement the pumpkin cream cheese frosting.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the frosting with festive flavors, making each bite magical.
Enjoy creating these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls and let their delightful flavors fill your home with warmth!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Dough
Begin by warming milk to a temperature between 100-110°F, ensuring it’s perfect for activating the yeast. Sprinkle the active dry yeast and sugar over the warm milk, then allow it to sit for 10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, kosher salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter, mixing on medium-low for about 5 minutes until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm, draft-free area, such as a turned-off oven, and let it rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. Keep an eye on the dough; it should look airy and puffy when ready for the next step.
Step 3: Form Rolls
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a well-floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle measuring about 12 inches by 18 inches. Brush the surface with melted butter, and sprinkle an even layer of a cinnamon-sugar mixture over it. Carefully roll the dough into a log, ensuring the filling is tightly enclosed. Use a sharp knife or unwaxed dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces, creating neat cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Second Rise
Place the cut rolls into a greased 9″x13″ baking dish, arranging them in a way that they touch slightly. Cover the dish lightly with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes in a warm environment. At this point, they should expand and look fluffy, ready to be baked into delightful Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once preheated, bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown and the edges start pulling away slightly from the sides of the dish. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be a comforting signal that something delicious is on the way!
Step 6: Make Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the pumpkin cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and creamy. This delightful frosting will be the perfect finishing touch to your warm cinnamon rolls!
Step 7: Frost Rolls
As soon as your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls come out of the oven, spread the creamy frosting generously over the warm rolls. The heat will help the frosting melt slightly, creating a luscious coating. Serve these sweet, warm rolls right away for the ultimate fall treat that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
- Yeast Freshness: Always check the expiration date on your active dry yeast. Using stale yeast may result in flat rolls that won’t rise properly.
- Dough Temperature: If you’re in a colder climate, consider placing your dough in a slightly warmed oven during the first rise. This encourages the yeast to work effectively.
- Fluffed Filling: When spreading the cinnamon-sugar mixture, make sure to cover the entire dough surface evenly for a consistent flavor in every bite.
- Perfect Cuts: Use unwaxed dental floss or a sharp knife to slice through the dough log carefully. This helps maintain the shape of your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls.
- Serve Warm: These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re warm and gooey. The cream cheese frosting melts into the rolls beautifully at this temperature.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, and then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours. Simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they rise nicely. This method maintains their fluffy texture and delightful flavor, allowing you to enjoy warm, freshly baked cinnamon rolls with minimal effort on your busy mornings. Just pop them in the oven, bake for 25-30 minutes, frost, and savor the deliciousness!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Savoring these warm, pumpkin-spiced indulgences is just the beginning of a cozy fall gathering that feels like a hug in every bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture complements the sweet rolls, offering a delightful contrast that pleases the palate.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Enjoy the warming spices of cinnamon and nutmeg that mirror the flavors in the rolls, enhancing their autumnal charm.
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Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts: The savory crunch balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess melts into the warm rolls, creating a decadent treat that’s both sweet and comforting.
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Caramel Drizzle: A light pour of caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The brightness of seasonal fruits provides a fresh contrast, allowing the cinnamon rolls to shine without overwhelming the senses.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pairing coffee with flavors that echo the rolls adds to the festive atmosphere, perfect for a cozy brunch.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these rolls with delightful twists to suit your taste and pantry!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, allergy-friendly option. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for optimal texture.
- Dairy-Free: Swap milk and butter with almond milk and coconut oil for a dairy-free version that’s just as delightful. These substitutions keep the rolls moist and tasty!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a crunchy texture. The added nuttiness complements the cream cheese frosting beautifully.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger in the dough for a warming kick. It adds an interesting depth to the classic fall flavors!
- Fruit Twist: Substitute pumpkin puree with applesauce or mashed banana for a fruity variation. Each option introduces a unique flavor profile and moisture.
- Maple Bliss: Drizzle some maple syrup into the frosting for a sweet twist that’ll take your rolls to the next level. This delightful addition embodies fall’s warmth perfectly.
- Chocolate Surprise: Fold in chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise in each bite. They melt beautifully and add richness that complements the cream cheese.
- Bourbon Glaze: Add a tablespoon of bourbon into your frosting for a sophisticated twist. This gives the rolls an adult flair while enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Once you’ve enjoyed these flavors, why not explore other recipes like Mushroom Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger for even more delicious home-cooked meals?
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover frosted rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm rolls again, microwave individual pieces for 20-30 seconds or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they stay soft and delicious.
Make-Ahead: If made in advance, assemble the rolls up to the second rise, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning for optimal taste and texture.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for pure canned pumpkin without added sugars or spices. If you choose to use fresh pumpkin, opt for sugar pumpkins, known for their sweet flesh. You’ll want the puree to be smooth and thick, without excess water.
What’s the best way to store leftover rolls?
Very! Store leftover frosted rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are properly sealed to keep them fresh and moist! If you find them getting dry, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave will bring back some warmth and softness.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cool the unfrosted rolls completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the rolls to a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, there are a couple of common culprits. First, check if your yeast is fresh; expired yeast won’t activate properly. Also, make sure your milk was warmed to the correct temperature (100-110°F); too hot or too cold can kill the yeast. If you have already started the rising process, consider placing the bowl in a warmer spot (like a turned-off oven) to encourage it to rise.
Can I make these rolls without eggs?
Very! You can substitute the egg in the recipe with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). Both options will help bind the dough while keeping it moist and delicious!
Are there any allergies I should be mindful of with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains dairy (milk, butter, cream cheese) and gluten (all-purpose flour), which are common allergens. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You can also replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, like vegan butter, to accommodate lactose intolerant guests.
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Dough: Warm milk to 100-110°F, sprinkle yeast and sugar over it, let sit for 10 minutes. Combine flour, sugar, salt, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon in a bowl. Add yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter, mix until soft dough forms.
- First Rise: Transfer dough to greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place for about 1 hour until doubled.
- Form Rolls: Roll dough into a rectangle, brush with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, roll tightly. Cut into 12 pieces.
- Second Rise: Place rolls in greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Make Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, pumpkin puree, vanilla, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
- Frost Rolls: Spread frosting over warm rolls immediately after baking.
