These pumpkin-shaped cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on a classic treat, perfect for fall gatherings or holiday breakfasts. Shaped to resemble cute little pumpkins, they’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit with both kids and adults. With the addition of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon sticks for stems, this easy recipe turns ordinary cinnamon rolls into a festive, fun dessert or breakfast item that’s perfect for the season.
Why You’ll Love This:
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and the fun it brings to the table. Using store-bought cinnamon roll dough means minimal effort, but the unique pumpkin shape and seasonal flavors make these rolls feel special and homemade. The soft, gooey rolls with a sweet cinnamon filling are elevated with a light touch of pumpkin pie spice, creating the perfect fall treat.
Perfect Occasion:
These pumpkin-shaped cinnamon rolls are ideal for fall-themed breakfasts, Halloween parties, or even Thanksgiving brunch. They’re quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings or when you need to impress guests with minimal effort. Kids will especially love the festive pumpkin shapes, and they make a great addition to any seasonal gathering.
Decoration Tips:
For a more festive look, drizzle some orange-tinted icing over the top of the cinnamon rolls to enhance their pumpkin appearance. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or top with a sprinkling of chopped nuts for extra texture. If you’re serving them at a party, consider arranging the rolls on a platter surrounded by small decorative pumpkins or autumn leaves for a seasonal touch.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of cinnamon rolls dough
- Icing (included with the cinnamon rolls)
- Cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
- Cinnamon sticks (optional, for decoration)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prep the Twine:
Begin by preheating your oven according to the package instructions for the cinnamon rolls, which is usually around 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, cut three pieces of twine for each cinnamon roll. Ensure the twine is food-safe and suitable for baking—natural fibers like cotton work best for this. - Shape the Cinnamon Rolls into Pumpkins:
Unroll the cinnamon rolls and place each one in the center of three crisscrossed pieces of twine. Carefully tie the twine around the roll, leaving some space to create gentle indents that will give the roll a pumpkin-like shape as it bakes. Avoid tying the twine too tightly to prevent cutting through the dough. Leave the top of the roll untied, as this is where you’ll insert the cinnamon stick “stem” after baking. - Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Once all the cinnamon rolls are tied and shaped, place them into a baking dish. Ensure the rolls are close but not touching, so they have enough room to rise and bake evenly. - Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:
Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes or according to the package instructions. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary depending on your oven. The rolls should be golden brown around the edges and slightly firm in the center. - Prepare the Icing:
While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the icing by either using the one provided in the package or enhancing it with a little extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for more flavor. Stir the spices into the icing and have it ready to spread as soon as the rolls come out of the oven. - Finish and Decorate:
Once the rolls are golden brown and baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut and remove the twine once the rolls are cool enough to handle. Spread the prepared icing generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into the cinnamon layers. - Add the Final Touches:
For a festive touch, sprinkle the top of the iced rolls with a bit more cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. To complete the pumpkin look, insert a cinnamon stick into the center of each roll to mimic a pumpkin stem.
Enjoy these fun and festive pumpkin-shaped cinnamon rolls with your family and friends, and embrace the cozy flavors of fall!
