The warm aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin wafts through my kitchen as these delightful Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls rise to perfection. There’s something truly special about this recipe, merging the essence of fall baking with a soft, gooey texture that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting, these rolls are not just a treat; they’re an experience, making them an ideal centerpiece for any gathering or cozy weekend brunch. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, transforming the usual fast-food routine into a homemade indulgence you’ll crave! Are you ready to get your hands doughy and create something truly scrumptious?
Why are these rolls a must-have?
Warm, Cozy Flavors: The delightful blend of pumpkin and cinnamon brings the essence of fall right into your home.
Indulgent Creamy Frosting: The rich cream cheese frosting adds a luscious finish, making each bite irresistibly decadent.
Super Soft Texture: Expect a pillowy, gooey delight that feels like a warm hug, perfect for Saturday mornings or festive gatherings.
Quick & Easy: With simple steps and short prep time, you can swap your fast food cravings for this delightful homemade treat!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at brunch or as a dessert, these rolls are guaranteed to impress friends and family alike. Serve them alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a perfect pairing!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- Milk – Activates yeast and helps create dough structure; warm to 100-110°F for best results.
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for dough rise; use fresh yeast activated in warm milk with a bit of sugar.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps activate yeast; brown sugar can enhance flavor depth.
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; be sure it’s pure and unsweetened.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the roll’s structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a different texture.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm fall spices into the dough; individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg work as substitutes.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and controls fermentation in yeast.
- Eggs – Adds richness and binding; using room temperature eggs yields the best results.
- Butter (softened & melted) – Contributes flavor and moisture; ensure it’s warm but not hot before using.
For the Filling
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling with a caramel-like flavor; combine with other spices for a robust taste.
- Ground Cinnamon – A key ingredient for the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – The main component of the frosting, adding creaminess and a slight tang; remember to soften it before mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting for that perfect texture and taste; sift for a smoother consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a hint of flavor; a little goes a long way!
- Additional Cinnamon – A touch can elevate the frosting with cozy spice notes.
Create these delightful Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls that will not only warm your kitchen but also your heart, turning your home into a haven of comforting fall flavors!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate Yeast
Begin by warming 1 cup of milk to between 100-110°F using a microwave or stovetop. Pour the warm milk into a bowl, stir in ¼ cup of sugar, then sprinkle 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast on top. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, signaling that your yeast is ready to rise and help create fluffy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a stand mixer, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon using a whisk attachment. Once mixed, add the frothy yeast mixture, 1 egg, 1 egg yolk, ¼ cup of melted and cooled butter, and 1 cup of pumpkin puree. Mix on medium-low speed for about 5 minutes until your dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat it lightly with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. During this time, the dough will become soft and airy, essential for creating those mouthwatering Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 4: Shape Rolls
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a 12″x18″ rectangle, about ½ inch thick. Brush the surface generously with ¼ cup of melted butter and sprinkle an even layer of ¾ cup of brown sugar mixed with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Roll the dough tightly away from you to maintain a compact shape, then cut it into 12 equal rolls with a sharp knife or dental floss.
Step 5: Second Rise
Place the sliced rolls in a greased 9″x13″ baking dish, ensuring they are close but not touching. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F. This second rise will ensure the rolls are light and fluffy, ready to bake into delightful Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 6: Bake
Once preheated, uncover the rolls and bake them in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until they’re golden brown and puffed up. The rolls should be lightly browned on top and feel soft to the touch. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to ensure they don’t over-bake, as you want them to stay moist and delicious.
Step 7: Frosting
As the rolls bake, prepare the creamy frosting by beating together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious topping for your warm Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls just as they come out of the oven.
Step 8: Ice Rolls
Immediately spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls straight out of the oven. The heat will help the frosting melt slightly, allowing it to seep into every gooey crevice. Serve these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls warm, and watch family and friends savor each indulgent bite!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
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Perfect Milk Temperature: Ensure your milk is warm, around 100-110°F, to properly activate the yeast. Too hot or cold can hinder rising.
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Fresh Yeast Check: Always use fresh active dry yeast, and test it with warm milk and sugar to confirm it activates. Old yeast will prevent your rolls from rising well.
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Clean Cuts: For neat rolls, utilize unsweetened dental floss or unflavored sewing thread to cut through the dough without squishing it.
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Ideal Rising Environment: A warm kitchen makes all the difference! If your home is cool, preheat the oven slightly, then turn it off to create a cozy rising space for the dough.
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Baking Time Alert: Stick to the recommended baking time of 25-30 minutes. Watch for golden-brown tops and test with a toothpick; it should come out clean for perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during their hectic week! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise—simply shape them and place in a greased baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This method ensures they remain fresh and rise beautifully when you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, just pull them out of the fridge, allow them to come to room temperature (about 30 minutes), then proceed to bake as instructed. This way, you’ll still enjoy warm, fluffy rolls without the stress of last-minute prep!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful rolls your own with these flavorful twists!
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Sweet Potato: Substitute pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potatoes for a subtly different flavor profile. You’ll find a surprisingly delicious taste!
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Maple Frosting: For a twist, try using maple syrup instead of powdered sugar in your frosting. The warm caramel flavor will beautifully complement the pumpkin!
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Nutty Flavor: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for an extra crunch and rich nutty flavor. Each bite will give you that delightful texture contrast.
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Chocolate Chips: Toss in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips in the filling for a decadently sweet touch. They melt into gooey pockets of chocolate goodness!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the filling for an unexpected heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet rolls.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical touch that brings a fun texture to your cinnamon rolls.
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Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Transform this recipe into muffin form by baking the dough in a muffin tin for easy sharing. Perfect for brunch gatherings!
For more delightful treats that channel the warmth and flavors of fall, consider trying Pumpkin Spice Gooey or those irresistible Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. Each variation adds a special twist to your baking adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Fridge: Store the frosted rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cream cheese frosting will stay fresh, keeping the rolls moist and irresistible.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap unbaked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: To enjoy your freshly baked Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, wrap them in foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their warmth and gooey texture.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dough up to the second rise, cover it well, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking to enjoy a warm, fresh treat whenever the craving hits!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Imagine the warm aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon filling your home while you create a cozy brunch experience for friends and family.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon rolls.
- Maple Pecan Coffee: The nutty flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of the rolls, enhancing their fall-inspired essence.
- Classic Scrambled Eggs: Light, fluffy eggs add a savory element that balances the sweet, gooey rolls beautifully.
- Chai Tea Latte: The spiced warmth of chai echoes the flavors of the rolls, making it a perfect cozy drink pairing.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a unique twist, serve these buttery potatoes alongside to enjoy contrasting textures at brunch.
- Pumpkin Spiced Latte: Elevate your pumpkin experience with this creamy drink, flavored with warming spices to match the rolls perfectly.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Add some variety with a dose of sweetness from these mini treats that amplify the cinnamon theme.
- Fall Vegetable Medley: Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts and butternut squash offer an earthy balance to your sweet dessert.
- Apple Cider Mimosas: Brighten up your brunch with a fizzy drink that showcases the season’s apple harvest and enhances the overall flavors.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin puree for these rolls?
Absolutely! Look for 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices. Check the label to ensure it’s free from added ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your rolls.
What’s the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep them fresh, store any leftover frosted rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream cheese frosting will help maintain the moisture of the rolls, keeping them just as delicious!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap unbaked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a labeled freezer-safe bag, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
What should I do if my rolls don’t rise properly?
If your rolls don’t rise well, check the activation of your yeast first. Ensure the milk is warm enough (100-110°F) and that the yeast is fresh—really, it needs to bubble after a few minutes of mixing. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a warm spot, like a preheated (then turned off) oven, to encourage rising.
Are these rolls safe for those with gluten allergies?
For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking. Just be sure to check that the flour includes xanthan gum or add a little to help create the structure that gluten provides.
How can I make these rolls ahead of time?
If you want to prepare in advance, you can make the dough up to the second rise. After shaping the rolls, cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking to enjoy freshly baked Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls whenever you like!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate Yeast: Warm milk to 100-110°F, stir in sugar, sprinkle yeast, and let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare Dough: Combine flour, sugar, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon in a stand mixer. Add yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and pumpkin puree; mix until smooth.
- First Rise: Shape dough into a ball, place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour.
- Shape Rolls: Roll dough into a rectangle, brush with butter, sprinkle with filling, roll tightly, and cut into 12 rolls.
- 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.
- Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, pumpkin puree, vanilla, ground cinnamon, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Ice Rolls: Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve.
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