Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

Picture this: your kitchen filled with the warm, intoxicating aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin wafting through the air on a crisp autumn morning. These fluffy, golden pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls are autumn comfort food at its finest.

Here’s a fun fact: did you know that pumpkin spice was originally used in pumpkin pie recipes dating back to the 1700s? This recipe transforms that classic flavor combination into pillowy soft rolls that practically melt in your mouth. What makes these rolls truly special is their incredibly soft texture and rich pumpkin flavor that’s perfectly balanced with warm spices.

They’re surprisingly simple to make and require just basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. If you loved our classic apple cinnamon breakfast bread, you’ll absolutely fall head over heels for these seasonal beauties. Get ready to create the ultimate fall morning treat that’ll have your family begging for seconds!

What Are Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls?

Ever wondered why we call them “rolls” when they’re clearly spirals of pure deliciousness? These pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls are basically autumn wrapped up in a fluffy, sweet embrace! The name comes from their characteristic rolled shape, where pumpkin-enriched dough gets slathered with a cinnamon-spice butter mixture, rolled up tight, then sliced into individual portions.

It’s like giving a regular cinnamon roll a cozy fall makeover with real pumpkin puree and warming spices. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these rolls are definitely the scenic route! Ready to roll up your sleeves and create some magic?

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The Perfect Fall Comfort Food Experience

These pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls deliver everything you crave in autumn comfort food. The tender, pillowy dough infused with real pumpkin puree creates an incredibly moist texture that’s impossible to resist. Each bite melts in your mouth while delivering waves of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and that signature pumpkin flavor we all associate with cozy fall mornings.

Budget-Friendly Homemade Goodness

Making these rolls at home costs a fraction of what you’d spend at a bakery or coffee shop. With basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and a can of pumpkin puree, you can create a batch of 12 gorgeous rolls for under $8. Compare that to spending $4-6 per roll at specialty bakeries, and you’re looking at serious savings while enjoying superior quality and freshness.

Irresistible Toppings and Flavor Combinations

The magic happens with the layers of flavor: a rich cinnamon-brown sugar filling that caramelizes as it bakes, creating those signature gooey pockets. Top it off with a luscious cream cheese glaze that adds the perfect tangy sweetness to complement the warm spices.

The combination of textures – soft dough, gooey filling, and creamy glaze – creates a symphony in every bite. If you enjoyed our popular maple pecan sweet rolls, these pumpkin spice versions will become your new autumn obsession. Why not treat your family to these homemade beauties this weekend?

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

Quick Overview

These pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls combine the best of fall flavors in an easy-to-follow recipe. What makes them special is the incredibly soft, tender dough enriched with pumpkin puree, which creates a beautiful orange hue and subtle pumpkin flavor.

The rich cinnamon-spice filling caramelizes perfectly during baking, while the cream cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

Total Time:

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total: 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough:

3½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
⅓ cup warm milk (110°F)
⅓ cup pumpkin puree
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 large egg

For the Filling:

½ cup softened butter
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ginger
⅛ teaspoon cloves

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
3-4 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast In a small bowl, combine warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the surface and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and will help your rolls rise properly.

Step 2: Make the Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Create a well in the center and add the foamy yeast mixture, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and egg. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: First Rise Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size. The pumpkin will make the dough rise slightly slower than regular cinnamon roll dough.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling While dough rises, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until smooth and well combined. Set aside at room temperature.

Step 6: Roll and Fill Punch down risen dough and roll into a 16×12 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along one long edge.

Step 7: Roll and Slice Starting from the filled long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 8: Second Rise Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch pan, cover with a cloth, and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy and touching each other.

Step 9: Bake Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 190°F.

Step 10: Make the Glaze While rolls bake, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then milk, vanilla, and salt. Beat until creamy and smooth.

Step 11: Glaze and Serve Let rolls cool for 5 minutes, then drizzle with cream cheese glaze. Serve warm for the ultimate experience!

What to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls With

These indulgent rolls pair beautifully with hot coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider for the ultimate autumn morning experience. For a complete brunch spread, serve alongside crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Consider offering vanilla Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey as a lighter accompaniment. The tangy yogurt cuts through the richness while adding protein to make it a more substantial meal.

For special occasions, pair with champagne or prosecco for an elegant brunch cocktail, or serve with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for a cozy family breakfast that screams fall comfort.

Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

Temperature Matters Most

Always use a thermometer to check your milk temperature – it should be between 105-115°F. Too hot will kill the yeast, while too cool won’t activate it properly. The pumpkin puree should be at room temperature to prevent shocking the yeast.

Don’t Skip the Rising Time

Patience is key with yeast dough. The pumpkin makes the dough slightly heavier, so it may need the full rising time or even a bit longer. Look for the dough to double in size rather than watching the clock.

Perfect Rolling Technique

Roll the dough evenly to about ¼-inch thickness for consistent rolls. When spreading the filling, leave that ½-inch border on one edge – this prevents overflow when rolling and helps create a good seal.

Substitution Options

Can’t find pumpkin puree? Substitute with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash puree. For dairy-free versions, use plant-based milk and vegan butter. You can replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Don’t add too much flour while kneading – the dough should be slightly sticky. Over-baking will dry them out, so watch for that golden brown color. Use unflavored dental floss to cut rolls without squishing them.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Fresh Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. The pumpkin keeps them moist longer than regular cinnamon rolls.

Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Let come to room temperature before serving, or warm briefly in the microwave.

Freezing: Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 3 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and warm in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.

Reheating: For best results, warm in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes. Microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds. Make fresh glaze if the original has hardened.

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare through step 8, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Roll
Calories	385
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	45mg
Sodium	285mg
Total Carbs	65g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	35g
Protein	6g
Vitamin A	25% DV
Iron	8% DV

Nutrition values are approximate and based on standard ingredient measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls through the shaping stage, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and complete their final rise before baking. This actually improves the flavor as the dough develops more complexity.

What if I don’t have pumpkin puree?

Sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree work perfectly as substitutes. You can even use applesauce, though the flavor will be different. Canned pumpkin gives the best results and authentic fall flavor.

Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?

Check your yeast expiration date first. Cold ingredients can slow rising, so ensure your milk and pumpkin puree are at room temperature. Rising time may take longer in cool kitchens – try placing the bowl near a warm (not hot) oven.

Can I freeze the unbaked rolls?

Yes! After shaping, place rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator, allow final rise, then bake as directed.

How do I know when they’re fully baked?

The tops should be golden brown, and they should sound hollow when gently tapped. An instant-read thermometer inserted in the center should read 190°F. Don’t overbake or they’ll become dry.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the filling sugar by up to ¼ cup, but don’t eliminate it entirely as it helps create that characteristic gooey texture. The glaze sugar can be reduced to taste as well.

Additional Helpful Tips and Variations

Flavor Variations:

Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist
Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and richness
Try a maple cream cheese glaze by substituting 2 tablespoons maple syrup for some of the milk
Add orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy note that complements the pumpkin

Special Occasion Ideas:

Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized party treats
Shape into a wreath for holiday gatherings by arranging rolls in a circle
Make individual mini rolls in muffin tins for portion control
Create a pull-apart bread by placing rolls closer together in a round pan

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

If dough seems too wet, gradually add flour one tablespoon at a time during kneading
For extra soft rolls, brush tops with melted butter before and after baking
If rolls brown too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking
For perfectly even slices, chill the rolled log for 15 minutes before cutting

Storage Pro Tips:

Line your storage container with parchment paper to prevent sticking
If glaze hardens, simply remake it fresh when ready to serve
Individual wrapped rolls make perfect lunchbox treats or gifts
Freeze pre-made filling in ice cube trays for quick future batches

These pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls represent everything wonderful about fall baking – they’re comforting, aromatic, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, holiday gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet and seasonal, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results every single time.

The combination of tender pumpkin-enriched dough, warming spices, and creamy glaze creates a treat that’s impossible to resist and sure to become a family favorite for years to come!