Few things capture the magic of a crisp autumn morning quite like Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Warm, soft, and filled with sweet spices, they’re the kind of bake that makes the whole house smell like comfort itself.
These soft, spiced pastries wrap cozy fall flavors into every golden swirl — the perfect start to your day or centerpiece for your next gathering. If you love seasonal, spiced baking, you might also enjoy our Gingerbread Men, another warmly spiced classic that fills the kitchen with festive aromas.
Whether served fresh from the oven with a drizzle of glaze or enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are pure autumn joy. And if you’re looking for a sweet, simple companion treat, our Donut Muffins offer another cozy favorite that’s perfect for chilly mornings.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 2 hours (including rising)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Difficulty: Moderate
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- ¾ cup whole milk, warm (177ml)
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup pumpkin purée (122g)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (67g)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (57g)
- 3¾ cups all-purpose flour (469g)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2.6g)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (1g)
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ⅔ cup brown sugar, packed (133g)
- 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon (11g)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (57g)
For the Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (30–45ml)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5ml)
How to Make the Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Whisk in the pumpkin purée, sugar, egg, and melted butter.
- Gradually add the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes until soft and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Roll the dough into a 16×10 inch (40×25 cm) rectangle.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll tightly into a log, then slice into 12 even rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a silky glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Handy Tips
- Use pure pumpkin purée — not pumpkin pie filling!
- Knead the dough well for soft, fluffy rolls.
- If the glaze feels too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time.
Fun Variations to Try
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling up.
- Add a dash of pumpkin pie spice to the glaze for extra autumn flair.
- Swap the vanilla glaze for a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Nutrition Information (Per Roll)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 22g
The Sweet Story Behind Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are a beautiful twist on the beloved classic, blending cozy cinnamon swirls with the mellow sweetness of pumpkin. Popularized during the rise of fall baking and the pumpkin spice craze, these rolls have found a permanent place at brunch tables and autumn gatherings across the world.
Best Ways to Serve Your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
These homemade rolls are best enjoyed warm, with the glaze slightly melting into each spiral. Pair them with fresh-brewed coffee, chai tea, or a cozy mug of hot chocolate. They also store well — simply cover and keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
FAQs About Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Can I prep these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls the night before?
Yes! Shape them, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit out while the oven preheats, then bake fresh.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Absolutely. Bake, cool completely, then wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving.
Is there a substitute for pumpkin purée?
If needed, sweet potato purée works beautifully in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving the ultimate autumn breakfast or a sweet treat to impress, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls — soft, spiced, and full of cozy flavor — are sure to become your new seasonal favorite. Bake a batch, pour a warm drink, and let the fall vibes roll in.
