Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup whole milk, warmed
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough will be slightly sticky due to the pumpkin.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
Prepare the Filling
- Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
Assemble the Rolls
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
- Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along one long edge.
- Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes until puffy.
Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before glazing.
Make the Glaze
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, then milk and vanilla. Beat until smooth and spreadable.
- Drizzle over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
Tips for the Best-Ever Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Check your yeast: Make sure it’s not expired and proof it in warm milk if you’re unsure about its activity.
- Don’t over-flour: The dough should be slightly sticky. Too much flour makes tough rolls.
- Even rolling: Keep the dough rectangle as even as possible for uniform rolls.
- Sharp cuts: Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut clean slices without squashing.
- Storage: These keep covered at room temperature for 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
The pumpkin adds incredible moisture and a subtle fall flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm spices. These rolls are tender, fluffy, and absolutely worth the time investment!
- Prep Time: 3 hours (includes rising time)