Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Why make this recipe

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin with the rich, creamy texture of the brown butter cream cheese frosting. This makes for a comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall.

These rolls are not only a sweet delight but also surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress family and friends with your baking skills. Enjoying the intoxicating aroma of fresh-baked cinnamon rolls filling your home is a bonus!

Equipment needed for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss

Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary equipment. Here’s what you will need to bring this recipe to life:

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Stand mixer or hand mixer
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
Oven

What You Need to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss

3 cups All-Purpose Flour
1 cup Pumpkin Puree (canned or fresh)
1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons Yeast (active dry yeast)
1 cup Milk (warm to 110°F (43°C))
2 large Eggs (room temperature)
1/2 cup Butter (softened)
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 cup Brown Sugar (light or dark)
2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (freshly ground preferred)
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (freshly grated)
1/2 cup Chopped Pecans (lightly toasted)
8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
1/4 cup Brown Butter (careful not to burn)
2 cups Powdered Sugar (sifted)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure preferred)
2 tablespoons Milk (adjust for consistency)

How to Cook Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss Step by Step

Start by making the dough for the cinnamon rolls. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to help the rolls rise.

Next, add the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, softened butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir these ingredients until they are well combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about five to seven minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, this will be easier using the dough hook.

Once the dough is ready, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour or until it doubles in size. While the dough rises, you can prepare the filling. Mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped pecans in a separate bowl. This mixture will give your rolls a sweet and rich flavor.

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Make sure to roll evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then sprinkle the cinnamon pecan filling evenly over the buttered dough.

Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring that you keep it as tight as possible for an even rise. Once you’ve reached the end, pinch the seam to seal it. Using a sharp knife or string, slice the log into even rolls, about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between them. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls proof again for about 30 minutes.

While the rolls are on their second rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

While the rolls bake, you can prepare the brown butter cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. In a pan, melt the butter over low heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma but be careful not to let it burn. Add the browned butter to the cream cheese, along with the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk until you reach your desired consistency.

When the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the brown butter cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. The warmth of the rolls will help the frosting melt slightly, creating a delicious glaze.

How to serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Cut each roll from the dish and place them on individual plates. Drizzle with extra cream cheese frosting for a finishing touch. These rolls are delightful with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.

You can even serve them for a special brunch, impressing your guests with the enticing aroma and flavors. Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top of the frosting for an extra touch; it not only enhances the look but also amps up the cinnamon flavor.

What to serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss

These delicious rolls pair beautifully with various drinks and sides. Consider serving them alongside a hot cup of spiced chai or a classic latte. A fresh fruit salad can also balance the sweetness of the rolls.

If you’re hosting brunch, think about complementing the rolls with scrambled eggs or soothing oatmeal to deliver a delightful morning spread. For a festive touch, include pumpkin spice lattes that resonate with the rolls’ flavors.

How to store Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss

To keep your pumpkin cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store them for longer, place them in the refrigerator where they can last about a week.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the rolls. Wrap each cooled roll in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips to make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss

Ensure your milk is warm but not hot; too high a temperature can kill the yeast.
For fluffier rolls, allow extra time for rising. If your kitchen is cool, consider preheating your oven slightly and turning it off. Place the dough inside to rise.
Use fresh spices to enhance the flavor of the filling. Freshly grated nutmeg and ground cinnamon make a noticeable difference.
Don’t skip the brown butter step for the frosting; the nutty flavor elevates the cream cheese frosting and complements the rolls perfectly.
If you prefer a lighter frosting, add more milk gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, consider adding chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for a sweet twist. You can also swap out the pecans for walnuts or leave out the nuts altogether if someone has nut allergies. Feel free to experiment with different frosting flavors, like maple or a classic vanilla glaze.

For a gluttonous option, you could layer more filling inside the rolls by doubling the amount of brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Just ensure to roll them tightly to accommodate the extra filling.

Best time to make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss

These scrumptious cinnamon rolls make an appearance during the fall season, especially around Thanksgiving and Halloween. Their warm, enticing flavors resonate well with festive gatherings and chilly weather. However, they are also delightful year-round whenever you’re craving a sweet treat.

They can be made for special occasions, cozy weekend breakfasts, or simply for a satisfying afternoon snack with friends. The aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon mingling in your kitchen is sure to brighten up any day.

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making cinnamon rolls is letting the dough rise too long, which can cause the rolls to become overly airy and lose structure. Aim for double in size, and check the dough frequently.

Another error occurs when not using enough flour while rolling out the dough, leading to a sticky mess that’s hard to manage. Always flour your work surface well.

Finally, be mindful while baking; overbaking can lead to dry rolls. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary significantly.

Nutritional notes

These rolls are a delicious treat that satisfies your sweet tooth, but it’s important to enjoy them in moderation. Each roll is rich in sugars and carbohydrates due to the flour and brown sugar. Additionally, while the pumpkin provides some vitamins, the cream cheese frosting adds calories that you want to manage if watching your intake.

However, the inclusion of pecans brings healthy fats into the mix. If looking for a healthier option, try reducing the sugar in the dough or frosting and increasing the amount of pumpkin puree.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to make the rolls a bit healthier. The texture might be denser, but it will still be delicious.

Can I prepare the cinnamon rolls the night before?
Absolutely! Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.

How do I know when my yeast is active?
Your yeast is active when it bubbles and foams after being combined with warm milk and sugar. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk too hot or cold.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Bliss are a delightful addition to any baking repertoire. With their warm, comforting flavors and creamy frosting, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring joy to any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a crisp autumn morning or as a festive treat, these rolls are bound to impress everyone around the table. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to enjoy the heartwarming experience of baking and sharing these delightful cinnamon rolls. Happy baking!