If you love the cozy flavors of fall, then you’re in for a treat! Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of sweet and spice, guaranteed to warm your heart. In this article, I’ll share my easy step-by-step recipe, plus tips to make these rolls even better. You won’t want to miss out on these satisfying bites that are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
– 1/4 cup milk, warmed
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Filling & Frosting
– Filling:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon milk (if needed, for consistency)
The key to great pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls lies in your choice of ingredients. Start with fresh, high-quality pumpkin puree. It adds moisture and flavor. Use active dry yeast for a fluffy roll. Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
The dry mix of flour, sugar, and spices creates a lovely base. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth. The filling combines brown sugar and cinnamon for a sweet and spiced taste.
For the cream cheese frosting, use softened cream cheese and butter. This gives the frosting a smooth texture. Adjust the milk to get the right consistency. You want it spreadable but not runny.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re set for a delicious baking experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
– In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Mix well to blend the dry ingredients.
– In a separate bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of warmed milk, 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg. Whisk until smooth.
– Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms.
Kneading and Rising the Dough
– Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes. It should feel smooth and elastic.
– Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Assembling the Rolls
– Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Roll it out into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches.
– Spread 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter evenly over the dough’s surface. Then sprinkle 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon all over the buttered dough.
– Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 12 even rolls.
Baking the Rolls
– Place the sliced rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
– While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat together 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
– If you want a thinner consistency, add 1 tablespoon of milk as needed.
Finishing Touches
– Once the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly. Drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the baked rolls. Enjoy the warmth and sweet aroma!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
To make great dough, the yeast needs warmth. The ideal temperature is about 110°F (43°C). This warmth helps the yeast grow. You will know the dough has risen when it doubles in size. It should feel puffy and soft when you touch it.
Enhancing Flavor
Want to boost the taste? Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough. This extra spice gives the rolls a warm flavor. You can also use brown butter instead of regular butter. Brown butter has a nutty taste that makes the rolls richer.
Presentation Suggestions
Warm cinnamon rolls taste best. They are soft and gooey right from the oven. Serve them on a festive plate for a nice touch. You can sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for added flair. This garnish makes your treats look even more inviting.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make these rolls truly special with flavor twists. Adding chocolate chips brings a sweet touch. Just fold in a half cup before rolling. You can also use different spices, like cardamom or allspice, for a warm, rich flavor. These small changes can make a big impact.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use a blend of gluten-free flour. It works well in this recipe. For a vegan treat, swap cream cheese with a plant-based alternative. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter. These changes ensure everyone can enjoy the rolls.
Stuffed Options
Get creative with your filling! Add chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture. Walnuts or dried cranberries work great. If you want a different cream cheese filling, mix in some maple syrup or orange zest. This gives a delightful twist to the classic rolls.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in the fridge for up to four days. If you have extra frosting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy your rolls with fresh frosting later.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use either the oven or the microwave. If you choose the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the rolls soft and warm. If you use the microwave, heat one roll at a time for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them tough.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze both unbaked and baked rolls. For unbaked rolls, place them in a greased baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze. Once frozen, wrap the dish tightly with foil. For baked rolls, let them cool completely. Then, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are fully baked?
You can tell if your cinnamon rolls are fully baked by checking their color. They should be golden brown on top. You can also gently press the top of a roll. If it springs back, it’s done. Another tip is to check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. It should reach 190°F (88°C) for perfect rolls. If you follow these steps, your rolls will be fluffy and tasty.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, place it in a greased bowl and cover it. You can let it rise in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This slow rise adds great flavor. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature. Then, roll it out and continue with your recipe.
What is the best way to freeze and reheat pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls?
To freeze your rolls, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them soft and fresh.
Can I use other types of cheese for the frosting?
Yes, you can use other cheeses for your frosting. Mascarpone or ricotta can work well for a different flavor. Adjust the sugar and vanilla to match your taste. Cream cheese is great for a tangy touch, but feel free to experiment.
Are these rolls suitable for breakfast or dessert?
These pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls are great for both breakfast and dessert. They have a sweet flavor and soft texture that fits any time of day. Enjoy them warm with coffee in the morning or as a sweet treat after dinner. They are versatile and delicious, making them a favorite for any occasion.
In this article, we covered how to make delicious pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls. We detailed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your dough. We explored variations and storage options to help you enjoy these treats longer.
Baking these rolls can be fun and rewarding. With the right steps, you’ll create a warm, sweet treat for any occasion. Enjoy the process and share with friends and family for smiles all around!
