Fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

These soft and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are filled with cozy pumpkin pie spice in every bite, making them the ultimate fall treat. The pumpkin puree in the dough adds moisture and flavor, while the warm cinnamon sugar filling takes these rolls to the next level. Finished off with a luscious maple cream cheese frosting, these rolls are perfect for an indulgent breakfast, brunch, or sweet snack to celebrate the season.

Why You’ll Love This: These pumpkin cinnamon rolls are incredibly soft and flavorful, with a subtle pumpkin taste that blends perfectly with the cinnamon spice. The rich and creamy maple frosting adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the pumpkin puree keeps the rolls moist and tender. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat, these rolls will quickly become a fall favorite.

Perfect Occasion: These pumpkin cinnamon rolls are perfect for cozy fall mornings, brunch gatherings, or as a show-stopping treat for Thanksgiving or Halloween. They are also great to make ahead for weekend breakfasts or when you’re entertaining guests who love classic autumn flavors.

Decoration Tips: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the rolls with a light dusting of cinnamon after applying the frosting. You can also garnish with crushed pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added texture and flavor. For a beautiful presentation, serve the rolls warm with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea.

Recipe:

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup milk (whole, 2%, or almond milk)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ tsp quick rise yeast (1/4-ounce package)
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 egg, room temperature
• 4 cups bread flour
• 2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 3/4 tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 2/3 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup butter, softened

For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 3 tbsp butter, room temperature
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 4 tbsp pure maple syrup
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • Warm the milk to about 110°F (warm, but not hot). In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
   • Add pumpkin puree, room temperature egg, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until smooth.
   • Gradually stir in bread flour, pumpkin pie spice, and salt using a wooden spoon or mixer on low. Continue to knead for 8-10 minutes using a dough hook attachment or your hands until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet.
2. First Rise:
   • Transfer the dough ball to a large, greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and a warm towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the filling.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
   • After the dough has risen, transfer it to a well-floured surface. Roll it into a 14×16 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Shape the Rolls:
   • Starting from the shorter side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Seal the edges by pinching them closed. Cut the log into 12 equal sections using a serrated knife.
   • Place the rolls into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish (line with parchment paper for easy cleanup).
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and a warm towel. Let them rise for about 30 minutes until slightly puffed. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake the Rolls:
   • Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, until just slightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before frosting.
8. Make the Frosting:
   • In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and salt until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency if needed with a bit more powdered sugar or maple syrup.
9. Frost and Serve:
   • Spread the maple cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls. For a decorative touch, sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy!