Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful way to celebrate the fall season. These sweet rolls feature a soft, spiced dough infused with pumpkin, giving them an irresistible flavor and texture. Perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. With a rich brown butter cream cheese frosting on top, these rolls are the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
 - Tools and Preparation
 - Essential Tools and Equipment
 - Importance of Each Tool
 - Ingredients
 - For the Dough
 - For the Filling
 - For the Frosting
 - How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
 - Step 1: Prepare the Dough
 - Step 2: Knead and Rise
 - Step 3: Fill and Roll
 - Step 4: Bake the Rolls
 - Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
 - Step 6: Frost and Serve
 - How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
 - With a Hot Beverage
 - Drizzled with Extra Frosting
 - Topped with Nuts or Seeds
 - Served Warm
 - How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
 - Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
 - Common Mistakes to Avoid
 - Storage & Reheating Instructions
 - Refrigerator Storage
 - Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
 - Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
 - Frequently Asked Questions
 - Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
 - What can I substitute for brown sugar?
 - How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
 - Can I add nuts or raisins to my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
 - Final Thoughts
 - 📖 Recipe Card
 
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a cozy taste that’s perfect for autumn.
 - Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
 - Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
 - Impressive Presentation: These rolls not only taste amazing but also look beautiful when served fresh out of the oven.
 - Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready.
 
Tools and Preparation
To create your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
 - Measuring cups and spoons
 - Rolling pin
 - Baking sheet
 - Parchment paper
 - Whisk
 
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
 - Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness in the dough for perfect rolls.
 - Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your delicious cinnamon rolls.
 

Ingredients
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fall breakfast. A pumpkin spiced yeasted dough is filled with a brown sugar filling then topped with a brown butter cream cheese frosting. What is not to love!?
For the Dough
- 2 1/4 Teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast (1 Standard American Package)
 - 6oz (3/4 Cup) Warm Water (check your yeast for temp, usually around 115F/46C)
 - 50 Grams (1/4 Cup) Granulated Sugar/Caster Sugar
 - 2 Tablespoons Butter, browned
 - 1 Large Egg, at room temperature
 - 1 Tablespoon Dry Milk Powder
 - 1 Teaspoon Salt
 - 5.3oz (2/3 Cup) Pure Pumpkin Puree (Not Pumpkin Pie Filling)
 - 1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
 - 406 Grams-468 Grams (3 1/4-3 3/4 Cup) All-Purpose Flour/Plain Flour
 
For the Filling
- 150 Grams (3/4 Cup) Brown Sugar
 - 1 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
 - 1 1/2 Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
 - 3oz (6 Tablespoons) Butter, browned
 
For the Frosting
- 4oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
 - 2oz (1/4 Cup) Browned Butter, softened to room temperature
 - 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
 - 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
 - 180 Grams (1 1/2 Cups) Confectioners Sugar/Powdered Sugar
 
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let it sit until foamy.
 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice.
 - Add the yeast mixture to this bowl and stir well.
 - Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
 
Step 2: Knead and Rise
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface.
 - Knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.
 - Place in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
 - Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
 
Step 3: Fill and Roll
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
 - Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
 - Spread browned butter over the dough and sprinkle with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice evenly across.
 - Roll up tightly from one end to another and slice into equal portions.
 
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Place sliced rolls on a lined baking sheet; allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes.
 - Bake in preheated oven for approximately 25–27 minutes until golden brown.
 
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and browned butter until creamy.
 - Add vanilla extract and heavy cream; mix well before gradually adding confectioners sugar until smooth.
 
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread frosting over each roll before serving warm.
Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy breakfast at home!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you want them as a sweet breakfast treat or a cozy dessert, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee – Pairing your rolls with a fresh cup of coffee enhances the warm spices.
 - Tea – A spiced chai or herbal tea complements the cinnamon and pumpkin flavors beautifully.
 
Drizzled with Extra Frosting
- Cream Cheese Frosting – Add more frosting on top for an indulgent experience.
 - Maple Syrup – Drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness and depth.
 
Topped with Nuts or Seeds
- Chopped Pecans – Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a crunchy texture.
 - Pumpkin Seeds – Add roasted pumpkin seeds for a nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
 
Served Warm
- Warm Up – Heat the rolls slightly before serving to enhance their gooeyness and flavor.
 - With Ice Cream – Serve warm rolls alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option.
 
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
To ensure your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always check that your yeast is fresh for proper rising.
 - Warm Water Temperature – Ensure the water is around 115°F (46°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
 - Knead Well – Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to achieve fluffy rolls.
 - Allow Enough Rising Time – Let the dough rise until doubled in size, which ensures light and airy rolls.
 - Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be golden brown but not dry.
 
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Adding side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some tasty options to enjoy alongside your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:
- Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the rolls.
 - Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness to your plate.
 - Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
 - Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal can complement the flavors while adding heartiness.
 - Sausage Links – Turkey or chicken sausage links offer a savory protein option that pairs well with sweet rolls.
 - Breakfast Potatoes – Crispy breakfast potatoes give a satisfying crunch alongside soft cinnamon rolls.
 
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong yeast: Make sure to use instant dry yeast for best results. Active dry yeast may require different preparation.
 - Not checking water temperature: Ensure your warm water is around 115°F (46°C). Too hot or too cold can affect yeast activation.
 - Overworking the dough: Knead just until smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls instead of soft ones.
 - Skipping the rise time: Allow the dough enough time to rise and double in size. This step is crucial for fluffy rolls.
 - Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using ingredients at room temperature, especially eggs and butter, ensures even mixing and a better texture.
 

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
 - They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
 
Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
 - Frozen rolls can be kept for up to 2 months.
 
Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
 - Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds on high.
 - Stovetop: Place on a pan over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
 
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:
Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow extra time for rising before baking.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can substitute coconut sugar or a mix of granulated sugar with molasses for a similar flavor.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size, and you can gently poke it; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.
Can I add nuts or raisins to my Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with nuts or raisins in the filling according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Their soft texture combined with sweet brown butter cream cheese frosting makes them irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize them with your favorite spices or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cozy fall morning treat!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 47 minutes
 - Yield: Makes approximately 12 rolls 1x
 
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of autumn with these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, spiced dough infused with pure pumpkin creates a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Each roll is filled with a rich brown sugar mixture and generously topped with creamy frosting, making them an irresistible comfort food that will warm your heart. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy morning at home, these sweet rolls are sure to impress with their stunning presentation and delectable taste.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 Teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast
 - 6oz (3/4 Cup) Warm Water
 - 50 Grams (1/4 Cup) Granulated Sugar
 - 2 Tablespoons Butter, browned
 - 1 Large Egg, at room temperature
 - 1 Tablespoon Dry Milk Powder
 - 1 Teaspoon Salt
 - 5.3oz (2/3 Cup) Pure Pumpkin Puree
 - 1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
 - 406 Grams-468 Grams (3 1/4–3 3/4 Cup) All-Purpose Flour
 - 150 Grams (3/4 Cup) Brown Sugar
 - 1 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
 - 1 1/2 Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
 - 3oz (6 Tablespoons) Butter, browned
 - 4oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
 - 2oz (1/4 Cup) Browned Butter, softened to room temperature
 - 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
 - 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
 - 180 Grams (1 1/2 Cups) Confectioners Sugar
 
Instructions
- Prepare the dough by combining warm water and yeast in a small bowl until foamy.
 - In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, browned butter, egg, dry milk powder, salt, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Add the yeast mixture and stir well.
 - Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms; knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).
 - Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle, spread with browned butter, sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice evenly over the surface. Roll tightly and slice into portions.
 - Place on a lined baking sheet to rise again for 30 minutes before baking at 350°F (175°C) for 25–27 minutes until golden.
 - While baking, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese and browned butter until creamy; mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream, then gradually add confectioners sugar until smooth.
 - Once rolls are baked and slightly cooled, frost generously before serving warm.
 
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
 - Cook Time: 27 minutes
 - Category: Dessert
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (90g)
 - Calories: 292
 - Sugar: 19g
 - Sodium: 218mg
 - Fat: 12g
 - Saturated Fat: 7g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 4g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 39g
 - Fiber: 2g
 - Protein: 5g
 - Cholesterol: 37mg
 





