There’s something truly enchanting about rolling out soft, pillowy dough infused with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and the warmth of cinnamon. As the autumn air chills, these pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls transform your kitchen into a cozy haven, where every swirl promises a moment of pure comfort. The dough itself, enlivened with vibrant pumpkin puree, feels silkier than your average roll, and the sweet brown sugar–cinnamon filling tucks inside each spiral like a hidden autumn treasure. Once baked to a golden glow, these rolls emerge tender and aromatic, just begging for a generous slathering of tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting that melts into every crevice. It’s like hugging a warm blanket in dessert form—one bite and you’ll understand why fall bakers everywhere can’t stop making (and devouring) these beauties.
Beyond the irresistible taste, making these pumpkin cinnamon rolls is a ritual that brings friends and family together around the kitchen island. You might find your kids sneaking bits of dough or your partner sampling a nub of cream cheese before you’ve even finished spreading it. It’s that kind of recipe: interactive, slightly messy, and utterly rewarding. Whether you’re gearing up for a Sunday brunch or planning treats for holiday gatherings, these rolls hit all the right notes. They’re sweet without being overwhelming, richly flavored but still light enough to enjoy second—and third—helpings. And let’s not forget how vibrant that orange hue looks next to steaming mugs of coffee or spiced chai. With a total rest time of about two hours and moderate baking effort, you’ll have a centerpiece-worthy dessert that looks and tastes like you’ve toiled all day—when really, it practically bakes itself (with a little yeast-powered magic).
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PUMPKIN CREAM CHEESE CINNAMON ROLLS
Every scrumptious bite of these pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls comes down to a handful of superstar ingredients working together in delicious harmony. From the foundation of a well-kneaded dough to the silky cream cheese glaze, each component plays an essential role in creating that tender crumb, rich filling, and luscious finish you crave.
- All-purpose flour
Provides the structure and gluten development needed for a soft yet elastic dough that holds those swirls beautifully.
- Granulated sugar
Adds sweetness to the dough while giving yeast the food it needs to activate and help the rolls rise.
- Instant yeast
Responsible for the fluffy, airy texture by creating carbon dioxide bubbles throughout the dough as it proofs.
- Salt
Balances sweetness and strengthens gluten strands, ensuring the dough develops flavor and stability.
- Whole milk
Enriches the dough with fat and moisture, resulting in a tender crumb and richer overall taste.
- Unsalted butter (dough)
Contributes to a soft, rich dough and prevents it from drying out during baking.
- Pumpkin puree
Infuses the dough with moisture, vibrant color, and subtle autumnal sweetness, making every roll extra tender.
- Egg
Binds the ingredients together and adds richness and a slight lift to the dough’s texture.
- Brown sugar
Adds deeper, molasses-like sweetness to the cinnamon filling, creating those sticky, gooey centers.
- Ground cinnamon
Delivers warm, spicy notes that pair perfectly with pumpkin and cream cheese for that classic flavor combo.
- Unsalted butter (filling)
Acts as the glue for the brown sugar and cinnamon, ensuring the filling spreads evenly and bakes to blissful gooeyness.
- Cream cheese
Forms the tangy base of the frosting that cuts through the sweetness and complements the pumpkin spice.
- Unsalted butter (frosting)
Lightens and smooths the cream cheese, giving the glaze a luxurious, silky texture.
- Powdered sugar
Sweetens and thickens the frosting without any graininess, creating a cloud-like finish.
- Vanilla extract
Enhances all the flavors with a warm, fragrant note that ties the frosting to the pumpkin spice base.
HOW TO MAKE PUMPKIN CREAM CHEESE CINNAMON ROLLS
Before diving into the step-by-step process, know that these instructions guide you through everything from mixing and kneading the pumpkin-enriched dough to creating the ultra-smooth cream cheese frosting. Each stage—from the first rise to the final icing—builds layers of flavor and texture, ensuring you end up with warm, fluffy rolls that drizzle with sweet cream cheese goodness.
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Whisk briefly to distribute each element evenly, then set this dry mixture aside so it’s ready to welcome the wet ingredients.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the whole milk and unsalted butter together. Stir occasionally until the butter melts completely and the mixture feels comfortably warm to the touch (around 110–115°F), which helps activate the yeast.
3. Pour the warmed milk–butter mixture into the flour mixture. Add the pumpkin puree and the large egg. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms and the ingredients are just combined.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6–8 minutes, pressing and folding until you have a smooth, elastic dough that springs back when gently poked.
5. Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
6. While the dough rises, whisk together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl to prepare your filling.
7. Once risen, roll the dough into a 16×9-inch rectangle on a floured surface, taking care to keep the edges straight for even spirals.
8. Brush the entire surface with melted butter, then sprinkle the brown sugar–cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, pressing lightly so it adheres.
9. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut into 12 even slices, ensuring each slice holds its swirl.
10. Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes, allowing the spirals to puff up.
11. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, until they’re golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched.
12. While the rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
13. Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls so it melts into each crevice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PUMPKIN CREAM CHEESE CINNAMON ROLLS
Once your pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, the fun really begins. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm, when the frosting is still melting into the soft swirls and the aroma of pumpkin spice fills every corner. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday brunch or curling up with a cozy afternoon tea, serving these rolls thoughtfully elevates the experience and makes each bite feel extra special.
- Serve Warm with a Dusting of Cinnamon
After frosting, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top to enhance that classic spice flavor. Present on a warmed platter so the rolls stay soft and the frosting retains its creamy texture.
- Pair with Hot Beverages
Offer a lineup of drinks—like a bold coffee, chai latte, or hot apple cider. The spiced sweetness of the rolls pairs beautifully with the warm, comforting notes of these beverages, creating a harmonious fall flavor profile.
- Add Toasted Pecans or Walnuts
For a contrasting crunch, sprinkle chopped, toasted nuts over the frosting just before serving. The nutty texture complements the tender swirls and gives each bite an exciting twist.
- Create Mini Roll Bites
If you’re entertaining a crowd, slice the rolls into smaller pieces and arrange them on cocktail forks. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, allowing guests to sample multiple items without committing to a full roll.
HOW TO STORE PUMPKIN CREAM CHEESE CINNAMON ROLLS
Keeping your pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls fresh is all about controlling moisture and temperature. With the right storage methods, you can preserve that tender crumb and luscious frosting for days, so you can enjoy these treats throughout the week or prep them in advance for guests. Below are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your rolls stay as delightful as the moment they came out of the oven.
- Room Temperature in an Airtight Container
If you plan to eat the rolls within 1–2 days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents dryness and keeps the frosting soft. For best results, place a layer of parchment between rolls to avoid sticking.
- Refrigeration for Longer Freshness
To extend their shelf life to 4–5 days, cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap or place them in a sealed container and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature or warm them in the microwave before serving for that fresh-baked feel.
- Freezing for Future Enjoyment
Wrap individual rolls or the entire pan securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or let stand at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to dig in, reheat a single roll in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or place the container in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. This restores the soft structure and melts the frosting back into its signature gooey perfection.
CONCLUSION
Reflecting on this pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon roll journey, it’s clear that a handful of quality ingredients and a bit of patience can yield something truly magical in your kitchen. From the moment you mix the vibrant pumpkin puree into the dough to the final swirl of cream cheese frosting, each step builds layers of flavor and texture that come together in warm, comforting bites. You’ve learned how to craft the perfect dough, whip up a rich cinnamon filling, and finish with a tangy-sweet glaze—all while soaking in the cozy, fall-inspired atmosphere these rolls create. Whether you’re impressing guests at a brunch table or indulging in a quiet moment with a mug of hot coffee, these rolls are the epitome of autumnal bliss.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later, whether you’re tackling it for a holiday bake-off or planning a casual family breakfast. Don’t forget that you can also find a FAQ below to help troubleshoot any yeast-related hiccups or offer tips on substitutions. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—so please leave your comments, questions, or feedback! Baking is all about sharing experiences, so let me know if you added nuts, tried the make-ahead method, or discovered a new favorite twist. Happy baking, and here’s to many more cinnamon-swirled mornings!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Description
These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect fall treat, with soft dough infused with pumpkin and spices, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. A must-try for your autumn gatherings!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Set aside.
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In a small saucepan, heat milk and butter over medium heat until butter is melted and mixture is warm to the touch.
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Add the warmed milk mixture to the flour mixture, then add pumpkin puree and egg. Mix until dough forms.
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Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for the filling.
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Roll the risen dough into a rectangle approximately 16x9 inches.
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Brush the melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the surface.
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Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough and cut into 12 even slices.
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Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
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While rolls are baking, make the frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until smooth.
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Spread cream cheese frosting over warm rolls and enjoy!
Note
- The pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also makes the rolls extra moist.
- These rolls can be made the night before; just cover and refrigerate them after shaping, then let them rise before baking.
- Experiment by adding nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture.
- For a lighter dough, you can use half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour.
- If you don't have instant yeast, you can use active dry yeast, but be sure to dissolve it in warm milk first.
