Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Fall Baking’s BEST Secret!
Fluffy, spiced, and filled with warm autumn flavor, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fall comfort treat. With tender pumpkin dough, a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re everything you love about cinnamon rolls—only better.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- stand mixer with dough hook optional
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Thermometer for checking milk temperature
- Plastic Wrap
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (105–115°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk, or as needed
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, salt, egg, and pumpkin puree to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add 3 1/2 cups flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Add more flour if needed.
- Knead dough 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, cover, and rise until doubled, 1–2 hours.
- Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl to make the filling.
- Punch down dough. Roll into 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread filling, leaving 1/2-inch border.
- Roll up dough tightly from long edge. Pinch seam and cut into 12 slices.
- Place rolls in greased 9x13-inch pan. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until fluffy.
- Frost rolls while warm. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use a thermometer to keep your milk between 105–115°F to activate the yeast. Don’t skip the second rise—it ensures fluffiness! You can prep the rolls the night before, refrigerate them, and bake fresh in the morning. Try maple glaze for a different twist!