Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

Dough

85 grams (3 ounces) butter
120 milliliters (1/2 cup) milk
7 grams (2 1/4 teaspoons) yeast
440 grams (3 1/2 cups) flour
50 grams (1/4 cup) brown sugar
50 grams (1/4 cup) white sugar
a pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ginger
160 grams (2/3 cup) pumpkin puree
1 egg

Filling

145 grams (3/4 cup) brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon

Icing

145 grams (5 ounces) cream cheese
30 milliliters (2 tablespoons) milk
240 grams (2 cups) powdered sugar

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Make sure it's large enough to allow the dough to rise without spilling over. If you have a bowl with a lid, it’s even better to keep the dough moist.
Stand Mixer with Dough Hook Attachment
This will save you a lot of effort in kneading the dough and ensure a smooth, elastic consistency.
Rolling Pin
Essential for rolling out the dough evenly. Lightly flour it to prevent sticking.
Baking Dish
An 8x8 inch baking dish works perfectly. Grease it well or use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Pastry Brush
Helps in evenly spreading the butter over the dough before adding the filling.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Set aside to cool slightly. Ensuring the butter is not too hot will prevent it from killing the yeast.

Step 2

2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, spices, and both types of sugar. If using active dry yeast instead of instant, dissolve it in the warm milk and let it sit for 10 minutes before adding it to the flour mixture.

Step 3

3. Pour three-quarters of the melted butter into the bowl with the flour mixture. Add the egg, milk, and pumpkin puree.

Step 4

4. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 5

5. Place the dough in a bowl greased with the remaining butter. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6

6. For the filling, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Step 7

7. After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangular shape, about 0.3cm (1/8 inch) thick.

Step 8

8. Brush the rolled-out dough with the remaining melted butter and evenly sprinkle with the sugar-cinnamon mixture.

Step 9

9. Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a cylinder shape. Cut the roll into 12 to 18 even pieces, depending on the desired thickness.

Step 10

10. Grease a baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Place the buns cut side up into the dish, leaving a bit of space between them. Cover with plastic wrap and let them rise for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 11

11. Preheat the oven to 347°F (175°C) about 15 minutes before the buns have finished rising.Use an oven thermometer for accurate temperature.

Step 12

12. Bake the risen buns for about 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Step 13

13. While the buns are baking, prepare the icing by mixing together the cream cheese, milk, and powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 14

14. Once the buns are done baking, let them cool slightly before drizzling the icing on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings

Serving these pumpkin cinnamon rolls is a delightful experience in itself. Picture a basket lined with a charming, rustic cloth, filled with warm, aromatic rolls that invite you to dig in. Serve them straight from the oven, allowing the cream cheese icing to melt slightly into the grooves of the swirled dough for an irresistible presentation.

For added flair, garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or an extra dash of cinnamon. These rolls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, making them perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or a leisurely brunch with friends. If you’re feeling festive, serve alongside a pumpkin spice latte to fully embrace the autumn vibes.

Leftovers—if there are any—can be easily reheated in the microwave for a few seconds, keeping them gooey and delicious for days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their softness. They also make for a fantastic on-the-go snack or a thoughtful gift when wrapped in a snug little parchment paper bundle and tied with a string.

Variations

To make these pumpkin cinnamon rolls gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help provide structure and elasticity to the dough, similar to wheat flour.

For vegan variations, replace the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) instead of the chicken egg. Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk. Finally, opt for a dairy-free cream cheese in the icing. The result is just as delicious and satisfying, while accommodating vegan dietary preferences.

Faq

How do I know if my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size. A good trick is to press lightly with your fingertip; if the indentation remains, the dough is ready.
Can I use regular active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to dissolve it in warm milk and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy before adding it to the dough.
How can I avoid the dough sticking to my rolling pin?
Lightly flour both the rolling pin and the surface you’re working on. Also, you can place a piece of parchment paper over the dough and roll over it.
My rolls always seem undercooked, what can I do?
Try baking them on the middle rack of your oven and check with a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center roll; if it comes out clean, they are done.
Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! After cutting the rolls, place them in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking the next day.
How can I ensure my icing is smooth and lump-free?
Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature and sift the powdered sugar before mixing to avoid lumps. Beat the mixture well until it's silky smooth.