Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are irresistibly soft, fluffy, and bursting with pumpkin flavor. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they combine the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with a luscious maple frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging on a cozy Sunday morning, these rolls will surely become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, these rolls are easy to make, even for beginners.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls work well as a sweet breakfast option, a brunch centerpiece, or even as dessert.
- Small Batch Delight: This recipe yields just six rolls, making it ideal for small gatherings or a cozy family breakfast without leftovers.
- Versatile Toppings: Enjoy them plain or dress them up with the rich maple frosting for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while keeping your workspace organized.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough, ensuring uniform cooking.
- Baking dish: A good-quality dish ensures even baking and helps prevent sticking.

Ingredients
To create these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, gather the following 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
Start by warming the milk until it’s comfortably warm but not hot. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk with instant yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Then add in flour, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix until combined.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, mix together light brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. This blend will create an aromatic filling for our rolls.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen sufficiently, punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough and sprinkle evenly with your prepared filling mixture.
Step 5: Forming Rolls
Starting from one end of the rectangle, roll up tightly into a log shape. Pinch seams to seal. Slice into six equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 8: Make Maple Frosting
While baking, prepare your frosting by creaming together room temperature butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Add in maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, salt, egg yolk, and water until smooth.
Step 9: Frost & Serve
Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, generously drizzle with maple frosting before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Serving pumpkin cinnamon rolls can turn any breakfast or brunch into a delightful feast. These warm, fluffy rolls are not just tasty but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
Classic with Maple Frosting
- Drizzle warm maple frosting over each roll for a sweet finish that complements the pumpkin flavor.
With a Side of Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside sliced bananas, apples, or berries to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rolls.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Pair your rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea to enhance the flavors and provide a cozy vibe.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent touch that makes these rolls feel like dessert.
Sliced and Toasted
- Slice the rolls in half and toast them lightly for added texture, then spread some butter or jam for extra flavor.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
To create the best pumpkin cinnamon rolls, attention to detail is key. Here are some essential tips for perfect results.
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Use Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm (100-115ºF) to activate the yeast properly and help the dough rise effectively.
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Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This will help create that fluffy texture you desire.
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Don’t Skip the Rise Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly before baking is crucial for achieving soft, airy rolls.
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Layer Generously: When spreading the cinnamon-sugar filling, be generous. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
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Serve Warm: For maximum enjoyment, serve these rolls warm right out of the oven or after a quick reheat.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own but can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the rolls.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that contrasts nicely with the fluffy rolls.
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Scrambled Eggs: Serve soft scrambled eggs on the side for a protein boost that pairs well with sweet flavors.
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Oven-Baked Apples: Baked apples with cinnamon make a comforting side that enhances the autumnal vibe of pumpkin rolls.
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Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can offer a nutritious option alongside your sweet treats.
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Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dish provides healthy fats and fiber, making it a nutritious complement to your breakfast spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
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Bold measurement errors: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Too much flour can make your rolls dense, while too little yeast can prevent them from rising properly.
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Bold ignoring the resting time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial. Skipping this step can lead to flat rolls that lack fluffiness.
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Bold not using warm milk: Ensure your milk is warm (100-115ºF) before adding it to the dough. Cold milk slows down yeast activation.
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Bold overbaking the rolls: Keep a close eye on baking time. Overbaking can dry out the rolls, making them less enjoyable.
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Bold neglecting the frosting consistency: The frosting should be smooth and spreadable. Adjust with more milk or powdered sugar as needed for the right texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and heat the rolls for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
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Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
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Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover it, and let the rolls warm through (about 5 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.
Can I use other types of flour for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends, but adjust liquid accordingly for texture.
How do I make the filling more flavorful?
Consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to enhance texture and flavor in your filling.
Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, then refrigerate overnight before baking.
What can I substitute for eggs in Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute in this recipe.
Are there any variations for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Try adding chocolate chips or swapping spices like nutmeg and ginger based on personal preference!
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Their soft, fluffy texture combined with rich pumpkin flavor makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or different spices. Enjoy this cozy recipe and share it with friends!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or brunch. These soft and fluffy rolls are infused with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Topped with creamy maple frosting, they offer a delightful sweetness that enhances each bite. With easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is great for bakers of all levels, ensuring you can whip up a batch for any occasion—from cozy family mornings to festive gatherings. Enjoy the seasonal flavors of fall wrapped in every delicious swirl!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- 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 (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)
- 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 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's between 100-115ºF. Combine with instant yeast in a bowl and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise in a greased bowl covered with a towel for 60 minutes.
- Combine filling ingredients (brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves) in a separate bowl.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle (¼ inch thick), spread softened butter over it, and sprinkle with the filling mixture.
- Roll tightly into a log shape and slice into six equal pieces. Place in a greased baking dish to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
- For frosting: Cream together butter and powdered sugar; add maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, salt, egg yolk, and water until smooth.
- Drizzle frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 195mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg