Delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for Fall and Holidays 🎃🥐✨

1. Introduction

As the air turns crisp and autumn colors emerge, nothing beats the comforting aroma of warm, freshly baked pumpkin cinnamon rolls. These fall cinnamon rolls combine the rich, hearty flavors of pumpkin with the classic sweetness of cinnamon swirls, making them perfect for holiday mornings, cozy afternoons, or as a festive treat. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, or simply embracing the cozy vibes of fall, these pumpkin spice rolls are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

2. Ingredients for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
½ cup warm milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs

For the filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional)

And for the cream cheese glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pumpkin Spice Rolls

Preparing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk until well blended. Add the pumpkin puree and continue mixing. Slowly add the dry ingredients: flour, yeast, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use your stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for convenience.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Rolling Out and Filling

Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll into a rectangle about 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.

Forming the Rolls

Tightly roll up the dough from the longer side, creating a log. Cut into approximately 12 equal slices using a serrated knife. Place the slices in a greased baking dish, leaving space between them for expansion.

Second Rise

Cover the pan with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let the rolls rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up nicely.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pumpkin cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Preparing the Glaze

While the rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

Finishing Touch

Drizzle the warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls generously with the cream cheese glaze. Serve immediately for the softest, most flavorful experience.

4. Tips for Perfect Fall Cinnamon Rolls

Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience and authentic flavor.
Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
Adjust spices to taste—add more cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for extra warmth.
For a gooey texture, slightly underbake and drizzle with extra glaze before serving.

5. Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. For best taste, reheat until just warm to preserve their soft, fresh-baked texture.

6. Serving Suggestions

Pair these fall cinnamon rolls with warm apple cider or spiced chai latte.
Serve alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Add a dusting of additional cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make these pumpkin cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. Remove from fridge and let rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin with canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and ideal for this recipe, providing the perfect moisture and flavor.

Are pumpkin cinnamon rolls suitable for gluten-free diets?

While this recipe uses regular flour, you can adapt it by using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind, texture and rise may vary.

How long does it take to make pumpkin cinnamon rolls from start to finish?

Including rising and baking time, the entire process takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

Enhance your baking experience with these essential tools:

KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer: Make kneading and mixing easier and more efficient, ensuring your dough has the perfect consistency.

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: While not necessary for baking, it’s perfect for reheating rolls or trying alternative cooking methods.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Perfect for preparing side dishes or snacks to serve alongside your pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker: Coffee pairs beautifully with these sweet treats for a delightful breakfast experience.

9. Conclusion

There you have it — a foolproof recipe for creating the most delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls perfect for fall and holiday celebrations. The combination of cozy spices, sweet pumpkin, and creamy glaze makes these rolls a surefire hit with family and friends alike. Whether for a festive breakfast or a seasonal treat, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls will become a new holiday staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy baking, and indulge in the warm, comforting aroma of fall!

Delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for Fall and Holidays