Easy Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

With the crisp air of fall settling in, it’s time to indulge in the warm, spiced flavors that the season brings. If you’re searching for a delightful way to enjoy pumpkin beyond the usual lattes and pies, then this Easy Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is just the thing to brighten your day. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a sweet breakfast treat during the week, these rolls are not just delicious but also surprisingly simple to make.

Why You Will Love This Easy Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Imagine waking up to the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls baking in your kitchen. It’s a Saturday morning, and you have time to savor a leisurely breakfast with your loved ones. The beauty of this pumpkin cinnamon roll recipe is that it fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle. You can prepare the dough ahead of time or whip it up quickly in the morning, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors without the stress. These rolls are fluffy, decadent, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Moreover, the addition of pumpkin not only adds a lovely hue and flavor but also packs these rolls with nutritional benefits. Whether you’re celebrating the season or simply craving a comforting treat, these rolls are sure to please. Let’s dive into some practical tips and health benefits to make your experience with this recipe even better!

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree and spices. If you can, roast your own pumpkin to enhance the flavor.
• Don’t Over-Work the Dough: When mixing the dough, be gentle and avoid over-kneading to ensure they come out fluffy.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth frosting.
• Rise Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free location for the best results. If short on time, a warm oven can help speed this process up!

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

These pumpkin cinnamon rolls offer more than just tantalizing flavor. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, making your treat a bit healthier. Here are some key nutritional benefits:

• Pumpkin: Low in calories and high in fiber, pumpkin can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.
• Spices: The cinnamon and nutmeg used lend not just flavor but also potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties.
• Whole Wheat Option: Using whole wheat flour can boost the fiber content, making the rolls even more nutritious.
• Protein from Cream Cheese: The cream cheese frosting provides a bit of protein, helping to balance out the carbs in the rolls.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients (with substitution options in table format)

Ingredient	Amount	Substitution Options
Pumpkin Puree	1 cup	Sweet potato puree or applesauce
All-Purpose Flour	4 cups	Whole wheat flour or gluten-free blend
Active Dry Yeast	2 ¼ teaspoons	Instant yeast
Brown Sugar	½ cup	Maple syrup or coconut sugar
Cinnamon	2 teaspoons	Allspice or pumpkin spice blend
Nutmeg	½ teaspoon	Cardamom
Milk	½ cup	Almond milk or any plant-based milk
Butter	½ cup	Oil or dairy-free butter
Egg	1 large	Flax egg (for vegan option)
Cream Cheese	8 oz	Dairy-free cream cheese
Powdered Sugar	2 cups	Stevia sweetener or coconut sugar, ground

Instructions (step-by-step with cooking tips)

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (around 110°F) and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Add in the yeast mixture once it’s ready.
2. Add Flour and Spices: Gradually add the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough starts to come together. You may need to adjust the amount of flour depending on the humidity and your desired dough consistency.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour until it has doubled in size.
4. Prepare Filling: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle (about 15×24 inches) on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the dough, followed by a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
5. Roll and Cut: Carefully roll the dough tightly from one end to the other. Slice into rolls about 1-2 inches thick. Place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
7. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
8. Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are done, let them cool for a few minutes before generously spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Enjoy warm!

FAQ

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to rise a bit before baking.

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can use sweet potato puree or even unsweetened applesauce as a substitute in equal amounts.

Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, these rolls freeze beautifully! You can freeze them unbaked or baked. If unbaked, let them rise, then freeze in the pan. To bake, let them thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes! You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water), use dairy-free butter and cream cheese, and opt for a plant-based milk for a vegan version.

Conclusion with light call to action

These Easy Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting epitomize the joy of fall baking. Not only are they a treat to the taste buds, but they also fill your home with delightful aromas and warmth. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your cinnamon rolls and share your experience in the comments below!

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