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Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

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  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • Dough:
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
  • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • Filling:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 1/2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • Frosting:
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 12 tbsp milk or heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Activate the Yeast – In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk and one tablespoon of the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to make the dough rise.
  2. Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients – Add the pumpkin puree, melted butter, the rest of the sugar, and the egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk or mix until well combined and smooth. The pumpkin will give the liquid a bright, cheerful color.
  3. Step 3: Build the Dough – Add 3 cups of flour, salt, and pumpkin pie spice to the wet ingredients. Using a dough hook or a sturdy spoon, mix until a soft dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, half a cup at a time, until the dough is slightly tacky but doesn’t stick to your fingers.
  4. Step 4: Knead and First Rise – Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes, or 5 minutes in the mixer, until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 60 to 90 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Step 5: Prepare the Filling – In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Make sure your butter for the filling is very soft so it spreads easily without tearing the delicate dough.
  6. Step 6: Roll and Shape – Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly over the top. Roll the dough tightly starting from the long edge. Cut into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
  7. Step 7: Second Rise – Place the cut rolls into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise is crucial for that signature fluffy texture.
  8. Step 8: Bake to Perfection – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22 to 27 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on top. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
  9. Step 9: Frost the Rolls – While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Spread the frosting over the rolls while they are still warm so some of it melts into the centers.
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Diet: Vegetarian