Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk (warmed to 110°F); 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting); 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup packed brown sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened); 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

As autumn settles in, there’s nothing cozier than homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, filled with spiced brown sugar and topped with cream cheese glaze. The dough comes together with real pumpkin puree and rises until fluffy before baking into golden spirals. Let these tender, warmly spiced rolls transform your dessert table or weekend brunch into something memorable and sweet.

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Freshly baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with cream cheese frosting drizzled on top

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

For the dough

Whole milk – Warmed just enough to activate the yeast without killing it.

Active dry yeast – The key to fluffy, risen rolls, so make sure it’s fresh.
Granulated sugar – Balances the pumpkin’s earthiness with just the right sweetness.

Pumpkin puree – Use the plain, unsweetened kind—this isn’t the place for pie filling.
Egg – Room temperature blends seamlessly into the dough.
Unsalted butter – Melted and slightly cooled so it doesn’t scramble the egg.

Vanilla extract – A warm, aromatic touch that enhances the pumpkin.
All-purpose flour – Measured properly for the perfect dough texture.
Salt – Never skip it—it’s the flavor booster every dough needs.

Ground cinnamon – The cozy spice that makes these rolls unforgettable.
Ground nutmeg – Just a hint adds depth without overpowering.

For the filling

Unsalted butter – Softened so it spreads like a dream over the rolled-out dough.

Brown sugar – Packed tightly for that rich, caramel-like sweetness.
Ground cinnamon – Double the cinnamon means double the coziness.
Ground ginger – A subtle kick that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

For the glaze

Cream cheese – Softened to silky perfection for a lump-free glaze.
Powdered sugar – Sifted to avoid any gritty texture.
Unsalted butter – Softened so it blends effortlessly into the glaze.
Heavy cream – Thins the glaze to that ideal drizzle consistency.

Vanilla extract – A little extra warmth to tie everything together.

Ingredients for homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls arranged on counter

Cook Time for Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

I always tell my friends that good things take time, and these fluffy spiced pumpkin cinnamon buns are no exception. The rising time gives them that incredible soft texture we all love.

While you wait for the dough to rise, why not browse some of my other holiday breakfast inspiration? I’ve gathered my favorite cozy morning treats that pair perfectly with these rolls.

Step	Time
Prep Time	30 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	2 hours (includes rising time)

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk, active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and activated.

Step 2: Create the Dough

Whisk the pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, remaining granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the yeast mixture until fully incorporated. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft, cohesive dough forms.

Mixing pumpkin cinnamon roll dough in a large bowl

Step 3: Knead and Rise

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll and Fill

Roll the risen dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger evenly across the surface. Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the longer edge, and cut it into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife.

Rolling pumpkin cinnamon roll dough with spiced filling

Step 5: Second Rise and Bake

Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes until they become puffy. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 6: Bake and Glaze

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown on top. While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.

Finished Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with cream cheese frosting drizzled on top

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Over the years, I’ve learned a few secrets that make these homemade pumpkin rolls with warm glaze truly special. Here are my favorite ways to customize this recipe to make it your own!

Flavor Swap: Try adding orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a bright citrus twist that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour and check out my healthy baking collection for more inspiration.

Texture Fix: If your dough feels too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it becomes workable but still soft.
Storage Tip: These baked pumpkin rolls with cream cheese frosting keep beautifully for up to 3 days. Simply warm them gently in the oven before serving, and explore my Thanksgiving dessert ideas for more make-ahead treats.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

I always believe that homemade treats can be nourishing in more ways than one. These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls bring not just comfort but some wonderful nutritional perks too.

Pumpkin puree provides a solid dose of vitamin A and fiber, while cinnamon offers anti-inflammatory properties. For those keeping an eye on nutrition, check out my healthy fall dinner recipes to balance your seasonal eating.

Sometimes I swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for extra fiber, and the results are just as delicious. If you’re looking for more nutritious baked goods, my healthy muffin recipes collection has plenty of inspiration.

Nutrient	Benefit
Vitamin A (from pumpkin)	Supports vision and immune health
Fiber	Aids digestion and promotes fullness
Cinnamon	Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties

For more detailed baking science and technique, I often reference Smitten Kitchen’s detailed baking instructions which align with my approach to creating perfect texture in baked goods.

A Lighter Version of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

I know many of you love indulgent treats but also want healthier options. Over the years, I’ve perfected some simple swaps that lighten up these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls without sacrificing that cozy comfort we all crave.

For a lower-sugar version, I reduce the brown sugar in the filling by half and add a touch of mashed banana for natural sweetness. The pumpkin puree already brings such wonderful moisture that you won’t miss the extra sugar. If you’re looking for more sugar-conscious baking ideas, my gluten-free pumpkin bread recipe uses similar principles.

Another favorite tweak: substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for extra fiber and nutrients. The texture remains beautifully soft, and the nutty flavor complements the pumpkin beautifully. For more inspiration on healthier baking, browse through my healthy baking collection where I share all my tested variations.

Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets

Over coffee with friends, I’ve learned how many families are navigating special dietary needs while still wanting to enjoy homemade treats together. Whether you’re sugar-conscious, diabetic-friendly in your approach, or simply exploring low glycemic options, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can adapt beautifully to meet your needs.

For those monitoring blood sugar, I’ve found that using natural sweetener alternatives like stevia or xylitol in both the dough and filling works wonderfully. Start with half the sugar amount and adjust to taste – the pumpkin and spices provide so much flavor already. Another simple swap: use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting for added protein with less sugar.

Portion size matters too. I sometimes bake these as mini rolls in a muffin tin for better portion control. They bake faster and make it easier to enjoy just the right amount. Remember, it’s all about finding what works for your body while still savoring the joy of baking and sharing food with loved ones.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

I’ll never forget the first time I served these warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls to my family on a crisp autumn morning. The aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin filled our kitchen, and my daughter’s eyes lit up when she saw the cream cheese frosting drizzled over those golden spirals. That moment of shared joy around our breakfast table is exactly why I love baking these homemade pumpkin rolls with warm glaze.

Beautifully served Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls on a rustic wooden board with coffee

These fluffy spiced pumpkin cinnamon buns pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For holiday gatherings, I love serving them alongside my favorite pumpkin muffins to give guests options. They also make a wonderful dessert when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top.

For brunch parties, I arrange these soft pumpkin dessert rolls with icing on a beautiful platter with fresh fruit and roasted pumpkin seeds for sprinkling. The combination of textures and flavors creates a memorable spread that feels both special and comforting.

Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made plenty of baking mistakes over the years, and these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls have taught me some valuable lessons. Avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure your homemade pumpkin rolls turn out perfect every time.

One mistake I made early on was using cold pumpkin puree straight from the fridge. This cools down the yeast and slows rising dramatically. Always bring your pumpkin to room temperature first for the best fluffy spiced pumpkin cinnamon buns.

Another issue: over-flouring the dough. Pumpkin puree varies in moisture, so add flour gradually until the dough just pulls away from the bowl. Too much flour creates dense rolls instead of soft pumpkin dessert rolls with icing.

Don’t skip the second rise after shaping! I once rushed this step and ended up with compact spirals. That patient rise gives them their beautiful light texture. For more baking guidance, I often reference Smitten Kitchen’s detailed baking instructions which align with my approach.

Lastly, spreading frosting on hot rolls makes it melt right off. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes so your cream cheese frosting stays beautifully swirled on top. If you love cream cheese toppings, my pumpkin cupcake recipe uses a similar technique.

How to Store Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

I remember the first time I made a double batch of these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for my daughter’s autumn birthday party. We had plenty leftover, and I discovered they freeze beautifully for future cozy mornings.

For short-term storage, keep your baked pumpkin rolls with cream cheese frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’ve frosted them, I suggest placing parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, freeze unfrosted rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and warm in the oven before adding fresh frosting.

To reheat, place individual rolls in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. This restores that fresh-baked texture perfectly. For more make-ahead breakfast ideas, check out my Christmas breakfast collection featuring other spiced treats.

If you’re planning a holiday brunch, my healthy Thanksgiving desserts guide includes tips for keeping baked goods fresh when preparing ahead for guests.

Try This Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Yourself

I’ll never forget the first time I served these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls to my extended family during our annual fall gathering. The way my aunt asked for the recipe before she even finished her roll told me this homemade pumpkin rolls with warm glaze would become a forever favorite.

There’s something magical about pulling a pan of these golden, fragrant spirals from the oven and seeing everyone gather around in anticipation. Whether you’re making them for a special holiday breakfast or just because it’s Tuesday, these spiced pumpkin pastry with cream cheese topping will create memories around your table too.

I encourage you to try this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls recipe yourself and make it your own. Share them with people you love, and don’t be surprised if they ask you to make them again and again. For more pumpkin inspiration, explore my pumpkin cookies, pumpkin protein bars, or even savory pumpkin ravioli for a full seasonal menu.

If you’re looking for other comforting baked goods, my cottage cheese banana bread offers another nutritious twist on a classic, while these soft dinner rolls are perfect for your holiday table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Trader Joe’s discontinue pumpkin cinnamon rolls?

While I can’t speak for Trader Joe’s inventory decisions, their seasonal items often come and go. The beauty of making these homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is that you can enjoy them anytime! Nothing beats the fresh-baked flavor of your own creation.

Does cinnamon go well with pumpkin?

Absolutely! Cinnamon and pumpkin are a match made in autumn heaven. The warm spice complements pumpkin’s natural sweetness perfectly, creating that classic fall flavor we all love in these spiced pumpkin dessert rolls.

Why put heavy cream on cinnamon rolls before baking?

Pouring a bit of heavy cream over the rolls before baking creates an incredibly moist, rich texture as it bakes into the dough. It’s my secret for extra decadent Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls that stay wonderfully soft.

What is a dirty cinnamon roll?

A “dirty” cinnamon roll typically means it’s loaded with extra indulgent toppings or mix-ins. Think extra gooey filling, cream cheese frosting swirls inside and out, or even chocolate additions. Our version keeps it classic but equally irresistible!

Cozy Pumpkin Recipes for Fall Mornings

Nothing says autumn like the warm scent of pumpkin spice filling your kitchen. These reader favorites bring comfort to breakfast tables and holiday gatherings alike.

Pumpkin Protein Bars – Healthy breakfast bars packed with pumpkin flavor and wholesome ingredients for busy mornings.

Pumpkin Cupcakes – Moist spiced cupcakes topped with creamy frosting, perfect for fall celebrations and lunchbox treats.

Pumpkin Cookies – Soft, cake-like cookies with warm spices and optional cream cheese glaze for afternoon tea time.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread – Tender loaf sweetened naturally with pumpkin and warm autumn spices for everyone to enjoy.

Savory Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

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