Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. Soft and fluffy, they are infused with rich pumpkin flavor and a delightful cinnamon sugar filling. Topped with a creamy maple frosting, each bite melts in your mouth. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that complements any meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have fresh cinnamon rolls ready in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are great for holiday breakfasts, weekend brunches, or as a sweet treat after dinner.
- Small Batch Recipe: This small batch yields just six rolls, making it easy to enjoy without leftovers.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your maple frosting and toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls successfully, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline the process and ensure perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
- Rolling pin: Helps you achieve the perfect thickness when rolling out the dough.
- Baking dish: Ensures even baking and provides the ideal space for your rolls to rise.

Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1/3 cup Whole Milk (warm to the touch (100-115ºF))
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 tsp Instant Yeast (1/2 package)
- 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Pumpkin Puree
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1 large Egg (lightly beaten)
For the Filling
- 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar (lightly packed)
- 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger
- 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp AllSpice
- 1/8 tsp Ground Cloves
For the Frosting
- 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp Pure Maple Syrup
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 tbsp Whole Milk
- 2 cups Sifted Powdered Sugar
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1 large Egg Yolk
- 1 tbsp Water
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by warming the milk until it feels warm but not hot. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add in pumpkin puree, melted butter, and lightly beaten egg. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In another bowl, mix together light brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and ground cloves.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough on a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread softened butter over the surface of the dough evenly.
Step 5: Add Filling
Sprinkle the filling mixture evenly over the buttered surface of the rolled-out dough.
Step 6: Form Rolls
Starting from one end of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Cut into six equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place each roll in a greased baking dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 9: Prepare Frosting
While baking, beat together room temperature butter with maple syrup and vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. If needed, add milk to reach desired consistency.
Step 10: Frost & Serve
Once baked and slightly cooled, drizzle maple frosting over warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
These delightful pumpkin cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.
With Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy layer that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Enjoy warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast option.
With a Hot Beverage
- Pair your rolls with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance their cozy flavors.
Topped with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and texture.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A light drizzle of pure maple syrup can enhance the sweetness and create a delightful glaze.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Making perfect pumpkin cinnamon rolls is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out soft and flavorful.
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Use Warm Milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast, ensuring your dough rises properly.
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Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten in the dough, making your rolls fluffy and soft.
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Let Dough Rise: Allowing the dough to rise adequately gives your rolls their light texture.
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Check Spices: Fresh spices will enhance flavor; make sure your cinnamon and other spices are not expired.
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Don’t Skip the Frosting: The maple frosting adds a delicious finish that makes these rolls truly irresistible.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin cinnamon rolls can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and balance to your sweet rolls.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy side that complements sweetness.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein, making your breakfast more filling and nutritious.
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Oven-Baked Bacon: Substitute traditional bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option alongside sweet rolls.
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Savory Breakfast Casserole: A small portion of savory casserole can contrast nicely with the sweet flavor of the rolls.
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Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding can be flavored with vanilla or almond milk, offering a light yet satisfying option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
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Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder the rising process of the dough. Always use warm milk and bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing.
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Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accurate measurements.
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Under-kneading the dough: Insufficient kneading prevents gluten development, resulting in tough rolls. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for best results.
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Skipping the first rise: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for light and fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this process; let it double in size for optimal texture.
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Ignoring oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cool can ruin your rolls. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- These rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds until heated through.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a lightly greased skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls special?
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls combine soft, fluffy dough with rich pumpkin flavor and a delightful cinnamon sugar filling, topped with maple frosting.
Can I use other types of flour?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends, adjusting liquid as needed for consistency.
How do I customize my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips into the filling for extra flavor and texture!
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls beforehand. Just refrigerate them overnight and bake in the morning.
Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?
Yes! Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and butter, and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of egg for binding.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not just delicious; they are also versatile enough for breakfast or dessert. Enjoy them warm with maple frosting or customize them with your favorite fillings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the delightful warmth of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect treat for any occasion. Soft and fluffy, these rolls are infused with rich pumpkin flavor and a sweet cinnamon sugar filling, all topped with creamy maple frosting that melts in your mouth. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they bring comfort and joy to every bite. With a simple small batch recipe yielding just six rolls, you can enjoy these delicious creations without worrying about leftovers. Customize your rolls with your favorite toppings for an extra special touch.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Whole Milk (warm to the touch (100-115ºF))
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 tsp Instant Yeast
- 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Pumpkin Puree
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1 large Egg (lightly beaten)
- 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar (lightly packed)
- 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger
- 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp AllSpice
- 1/8 tsp Ground Cloves
- 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp Pure Maple Syrup
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 tbsp Whole Milk
- 2 cups Sifted Powdered Sugar
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Water
Instructions
- Warm the milk until it feels warm but not hot. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix in pumpkin puree, melted butter, and beaten egg until a dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl and let it rise for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick and spread softened butter over it. Sprinkle the filling mixture evenly on top.
- Roll tightly into a log shape and cut into six equal pieces. Place each roll in a greased baking dish to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the frosting, beat together room temperature butter with maple syrup and vanilla extract before gradually adding powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drizzle frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
