As the leaves begin to dance with hues of orange and gold, my kitchen transforms into a haven of fall flavors. The aroma of warm spices fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around for a special treat—Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. These soft and fluffy delights are not only a breeze to whip up but also make for a perfect breakfast or brunch experience. Each roll, drizzled with a creamy maple frosting, offers a hint of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the rich pumpkin spice. Whether you’re celebrating a cozy weekend morning or preparing for a holiday gathering, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls are sure to become your new go-to comfort food. Are you ready to elevate your fall baking game and create something irresistibly delicious?
Why Make Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Irresistible Aroma: The moment you start baking, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting scent of pumpkin spice that instantly sets a cozy mood.
Soft and Fluffy: These rolls are incredibly tender, making each bite a delightful experience—perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.
Quick and Easy: With a straightforward process, even novice bakers can create these treats without any stress.
Versatile Treat: Serve them warm with a steaming cup of coffee or tea or enjoy them as a sweet addition to your holiday gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and a rich maple cream cheese frosting will wow your family and friends, ensuring they’ll ask for seconds! For more delicious breakfast inspiration, check out our Pancakes and German Pancakes recipes!
Fluffy and Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- Milk – Provides moisture and activates yeast; substitute with non-dairy milk if needed.
- Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the dough and ensures it rises properly; fresh yeast yields the best results.
- Butter (melted) – Adds rich flavor and tenderness; can be replaced with dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for superior taste.
- Egg – Contributes to the structure of the rolls; a flax egg works as a vegan substitute.
- Pumpkin Puree – Imparts moisture, vivid color, and delicious flavor; use canned pumpkin, not pie filling.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the dough’s backbone; gluten-free flour mix can be substituted if necessary.
- Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar – Sweetness and moisture are added with these sugars; use light or dark brown sugar interchangeably.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – A classic blend giving it that fall flair; if you’re out, cinnamon is a suitable substitute.
- Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
For the Filling
- Brown Sugar – Sweetness in the filling; adjust to taste.
- Cinnamon – Classic spice that deepens the flavor; essential for that comforting taste.
For Baking and Frosting
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the rolls; can substitute with non-dairy cream if desired.
- Cream Cheese (for frosting) – Provides a creamy, tangy base; use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener for the frosting, adding a delightful flavor twist.
- Powdered Sugar – Helps thicken and sweeten the frosting; adjust based on your texture preference.
Creating these Fluffy and Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is a charming way to celebrate the fall season with a touch of warmth and sweetness!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffy and Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Dough
Warm the milk to a cozy 105°F-110°F using a small saucepan or microwave. Mix the warmed milk with granulated sugar and active dry yeast in a mixing bowl, stirring gently. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, signaling that the yeast is alive and ready to help create your fluffy and soft pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, remaining granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout. This mixture will give your pumpkin cinnamon rolls that delicious fall flavor.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the pumpkin puree, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg. Using a spatula or dough hook attachment of a stand mixer, blend this wet mixture with the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms. This will create the soft base for your fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Knead Dough
Switch to a dough hook attachment if using a stand mixer and knead the dough for about 7-10 minutes. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and slightly sticky, showing signs of elasticity. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This fragrant filling will enhance your pumpkin cinnamon rolls. Set this mixture aside so it’s ready to delightfully sprinkle on your rolled-out dough later in the process.
Step 6: Shape Rolls
After the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface, about ¼-inch thick. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar filling evenly on top. Roll the rectangle tightly from one long side to the other, and slice the rolled dough into 9 equal pieces to form rolls.
Step 7: Second Rise
Transfer the sliced rolls into a greased baking pan, placing them close together. Cover with a cloth and allow the rolls to rise for another 15-20 minutes. During this time, they will puff up beautifully, preparing them to bake into fluffy and soft pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Once heated, pour heavy cream carefully over the risen rolls, providing extra moisture and richness. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and puffed up, filling your home with enticing aromas as they bake to perfection.
Step 9: Make Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the maple cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, softened butter, maple syrup, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar if desired, creating the perfect frosty topping for your fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Step 10: Serve
Once baked, let your pumpkin cinnamon rolls cool for a few minutes in the pan. Generously spread the maple cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into every crevice. Serve these delightful treats warm and watch everyone savor the delicious flavors of fall!
Expert Tips for Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Fresh Yeast Matters: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for maximum rising potential. A dead yeast won’t help create those fluffy rolls!
Perfect Milk Temperature: When warming the milk, keep it between 105°F-110°F. Too hot will kill the yeast, resulting in flat rolls instead of fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Floss for Clean Cuts: Use dental floss to slice the rolled dough into pieces. It prevents squishing and maintains the perfect shape of each roll.
Adjusting Sweetness: Taste your cinnamon and brown sugar filling before sprinkling it on. You may want to adjust the sweetness to suit your preference!
Storage Essentials: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep fresh for up to 5 days and can be revived with a quick microwave reheat.
Fluffy and Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful pumpkin cinnamon rolls to your taste!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture perfectly. The added nuttiness boosts the flavor profile, creating a satisfying bite with each roll.
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Choco-Pumpkin Twist: Fold in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. The rich chocolate mingles with pumpkin spice, turning ordinary rolls into decadent treats that will have everyone reaching for more.
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Sweet Potato Substitute: Swap pumpkin puree for sweet potato or butternut squash puree for a unique flavor twist. This variation retains the same moistness and adds a subtle sweetness that offers a different autumn flair.
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Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Turn the rolls into a baked casserole by cutting the dough into pieces and layering in a baking dish before adding cream and baking. The result is a gooey, shareable dish perfect for brunch tables.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make these rolls accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Be sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free as well.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ground ginger into the filling mix. It’s a surprising twist that wakes up the taste buds and adds depth to each bite.
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Coconut Cream Topping: Substitute the maple frosting with whipped coconut cream for a tropical touch that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin’s earthiness. This variation brings a light and fluffy alternative to the table.
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Apple Cinnamon Filling: Incorporate finely chopped apples into your filling for a classic autumn combination. The juicy apples add natural sweetness and a delightful texture that enhances the overall flavor.
Feel inspired to experiment with these variations and find your perfect blend! For further breakfast inspiration, don’t miss our delicious Cinnamon Roll Protein shakes or the scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Cake.
What to Serve with Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
The perfect meal is all about balance, and these delightful rolls offer a cozy sweetness that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a mix of orange segments, apples, and pears adds a light, fruity contrast to the sweet rolls.
- Crisp Bacon: Salty, crispy bacon creates a savory counterpart, enhancing the sweet and fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls for a heartier breakfast combo.
- Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices in a creamy chai latte echo the pumpkin spice flavors, making for a delightful, aromatic pairing that warms your soul.
- Maple-Glazed Sausages: Sweet and savory, these sausages offer a deliciously rich flavor balance, perfectly suited to round out a cozy brunch spread.
- Creamy Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal, topped with nuts and a drizzle of honey, complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls while adding a hearty texture.
- Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Enjoying these rolls alongside a cup of pumpkin spice coffee enhances the fall-inspired flavors while providing a delightful energy boost.
- Spiced Pear Compote: A spoonful of warm pear compote brings an invitingly sweet and spiced element, elevating your pumpkin cinnamon rolls for a unique dessert experience.
- Honey Butter: Slathering a touch of honey butter on your rolls enhances their sweetness and buttery richness, creating a mouthwatering indulgence.
- Whipped Cream: A soft dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate your rolls into a sweet dessert delight, especially perfect if served warm.
How to Store and Freeze Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for maximum softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls after they bake and cool completely. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen rolls, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat rolls in the microwave briefly or in the oven for that fresh-baked warmth without compromising their fluffy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, making your busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions through Step 6 (shaping the rolls), then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop, keeping them just as delicious when baked. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as usual. Alternatively, you can bake the rolls, allow them to cool, and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!
Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
Which pumpkin puree should I use for fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely, for the best results, use canned pumpkin puree, as it provides the right moisture and flavor. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that could alter the taste of your rolls.
How can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best freshness, I recommend reheating them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. They will retain their soft, fluffy texture!
Can I freeze my pumpkin cinnamon rolls?
Yes! To freeze your fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls, allow them to cool completely after baking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or oven.
How can I troubleshoot if my rolls don’t rise?
Very! If your rolls don’t rise, check the freshness of your yeast first—expired yeast is a common culprit. Also, ensure that the milk was warmed to the right temperature (105°F-110°F) when activating the yeast, as higher temperatures can kill it. If both of these components are good, you might try placing the dough in a warmer area to encourage rising.
What dietary adjustments can I make for fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls?
You can easily make these rolls suitable for various dietary needs! For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use dairy-free alternatives for butter and cream cheese. Additionally, a gluten-free flour mix can be used instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
How long should I let the dough rise?
Let the dough rise for approximately 30 minutes in a greased bowl covered with a clean cloth, or until it doubles in size. This initial rise is crucial for developing that fluffy texture. After shaping the rolls, allow them to rise again for about 15-20 minutes before baking.
Fluffy and Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the milk to a cozy 105°F-110°F. Mix with granulated sugar and active dry yeast, and let sit for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, remaining granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Combine the frothy yeast mixture with pumpkin puree, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 7-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling in a bowl. Set aside.
- Roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness, spread butter, and sprinkle filling. Roll tightly and slice into 9 pieces.
- Place rolls in a greased pan, cover, and let rise for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour heavy cream over risen rolls and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Prepare frosting by whisking cream cheese, butter, maple syrup, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Cool rolls slightly, frost generously, and serve warm.