Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of warm spices and pumpkin wafting through your kitchen on a crisp morning. It’s the kind of scent that wraps you in a cozy hug and promises a day full of comfort and joy. If you’re searching for that perfect autumnal baking project to create those unforgettable moments, you’ve absolutely found it with these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls. They are the ultimate fusion of a classic breakfast favorite and the soul-warming flavors of fall, all rolled into one incredibly delicious pastry.

So, what exactly are Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls? This recipe takes the beloved, gooey cinnamon roll and brilliantly infuses it with the essence of the season. Instead of a traditional cinnamon-sugar filling, we use a rich, spiced pumpkin butter, which not only adds incredible moisture but also a deep, complex flavor that pure pumpkin puree alone can’t achieve. The dough itself is often enriched, creating a pillowy-soft base that perfectly soaks up the creamy glaze on top. This treat is incredibly significant because it elevates a familiar comfort food into a special occasion-worthy centerpiece, perfect for holiday brunches or a luxurious weekend breakfast. It aligns perfectly with our blog’s mission to create approachable yet impressive baked goods that turn your kitchen into a bakery. For another fantastic way to use this seasonal star, check out our guide on how to make pumpkin butter. The process of making these rolls from scratch is surprisingly straightforward, especially when you master a few key techniques for working with yeast dough, which you can learn all about in our baking tips for beginners.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it has become our family’s official signal that fall has arrived. The entire process, from kneading the soft dough to slathering on the spiced pumpkin butter, feels like a cherished ritual. I love how the entire house smells like a pumpkin spice dream while they bake, and seeing the sheer delight on everyone’s faces when I bring a warm pan to the table is my absolute favorite part. For me, these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls are so much more than a recipe; they are edible memories in the making.

Health and Nutrition

Why it’s good for your body

Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls offer a surprising nutritional boost because they feature real pumpkin. Pumpkin is a fantastic source of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and a strong immune system. While they are a treat, these cinnamon rolls also provide a good amount of dietary fiber from the pumpkin and whole wheat flour. This fiber helps you feel full and satisfied, so you are less likely to overindulge. Furthermore, the warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are not just for flavor. They contain powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation in your body. Even though they taste indulgent, Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls deliver important micronutrients. You can enjoy them knowing you are giving your body some valuable benefits. Although moderation is key, this recipe is a smarter choice than many other pastries. The pumpkin butter adds a rich, creamy texture without needing excessive amounts of butter or oil. Therefore, each bite supports your wellness goals in a delicious way.

How it fits in a healthy lifestyle

You can absolutely enjoy Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls as part of a balanced diet. Think of them as a celebratory breakfast or a satisfying weekend treat that fits within your overall eating pattern. For specific dietary goals, you can easily adapt the recipe. Use a trusted gluten-free flour blend to make them celiac-friendly. You can also experiment with alternative sugars or protein powder to better align with your nutritional needs. The key is mindful consumption; pair one roll with a source of protein like Greek yogurt for a complete and sustaining meal. This approach helps manage blood sugar levels and keeps energy steady. For more ideas on incorporating treats into your daily routine, explore our guide on healthy meal prep. Ultimately, Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls show that healthy eating includes foods that nourish both your body and your soul.

How to Prepare This Dish

Steps and time-saving tips

First, whisk together your warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in your stand mixer bowl. Let this mixture sit for about five to seven minutes until it becomes frothy. Meanwhile, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and spices in a separate bowl. Next, pour the yeast mixture into your dry ingredients along with the egg, pumpkin puree, and softened butter. Use your dough hook to knead the dough on medium speed for approximately seven minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. For a fantastic time-saving tip, you can prepare this dough the night before and let it do its first rise slowly in the refrigerator. After the dough doubles in size, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Subsequently, spread a generous layer of pumpkin butter evenly across the entire surface, followed by a sprinkle of your cinnamon-sugar mixture. Tightly roll the dough into a log, pinch the seam to seal, and slice it into even rolls with a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss. Finally, place the rolls in your prepared pan, let them rise again until puffy, and then bake them to golden perfection.

Mistakes I’ve made and learned from

I have absolutely made my share of mistakes with these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls! Initially, I often used yeast that was too old, which resulted in dense, flat rolls that refused to rise properly. I learned the hard way to always test my yeast in warm liquid first to ensure it’s active and bubbly. Another common error I made was rolling the log too loosely, which caused the filling to ooze out everywhere during baking and created messy, deflated spirals. Now, I roll the dough tightly from the very beginning and use a serrated knife for clean cuts. For more insights on working with yeast, check out my guide on baking with yeast. Also, if your filling tends to leak, my post on preventing filling leakage has several helpful tricks that saved my bakes.

Cultural Connection and Variations

Where this recipe comes from

Imagine a crisp autumn morning where the scent of warm spices and baking bread fills the kitchen. This is the heartwarming scene where Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls truly feel at home. While cinnamon rolls have deep roots in Scandinavian and German baking traditions, often enjoyed as a weekend treat, the addition of pumpkin butter is a uniquely North American twist. It speaks to our love of seasonal, harvest-inspired flavors and the tradition of preserving autumn’s bounty.

Many families have their own cherished version of Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls, often passed down through generations. In some households, the recipe is a closely guarded secret, while in others, it’s a joyful, collaborative effort that marks the start of the holiday season. The process of rolling the dough and spreading the filling becomes a personal ritual, connecting us to bakers of the past even as we create new memories. This dish beautifully marries Old World technique with New World ingredients, resulting in a pastry that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

How it fits in today’s cooking

Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls have secured a beloved spot in modern cooking because they perfectly capture the essence of fall. They are a staple for holiday breakfasts, from Thanksgiving morning to Christmas brunch, and have also become a cherished weekend project for home bakers seeking that cozy, aromatic experience.

Today’s cooks are creatively adapting the classic recipe to fit various dietary needs and flavor adventures. Some are making them ahead by preparing the rolls the night before and baking them fresh in the morning, while others are experimenting with different spices or even a cream cheese swirl. For those looking to expand their seasonal baking repertoire, these rolls pair wonderfully with other autumnal treats. You can explore more inspiration with our ultimate collection of pumpkin recipes that are perfect for fall. The versatility of pumpkin butter itself is a key to its modern appeal, as it can be used in so many ways. Discover the many possibilities with our guide on creative ways to use pumpkin butter beyond the baking sheet. This ensures the tradition continues to evolve and delight new generations.

Taste and Texture

What makes it delicious

These Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls deliver a truly decadent sensory experience. Imagine pulling apart a warm, impossibly soft roll to reveal a swirl of spiced pumpkin butter that is both rich and creamy. The dough itself is incredibly tender and airy, so it offers a satisfyingly chewy pull with every single bite. Aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger warmly mingle with the sweet, earthy essence of pumpkin, because this combination creates a fragrance that will fill your entire kitchen. The filling melts luxuriously into the layers, while a generous slather of cream cheese frosting on top adds a cool, tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the warm spices. This combination of textures—from the fluffy dough to the gooey filling and the smooth frosting—makes each mouthful complex and utterly delightful. Ultimately, these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls are a masterclass in autumn comfort baking.

Boosting the flavor

You can easily elevate these rolls with a few simple tweaks. For a deeper flavor, try using brown butter in your dough or even in your frosting for a wonderfully nutty aroma. A pinch of cardamom or a dash of black pepper added to your spice blend will introduce a warm, complex kick that complements the pumpkin beautifully. Although the cream cheese frosting is classic, a drizzle of salted caramel sauce introduces a lovely sweet-and-salty contrast. Consider topping your warm Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls with a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunchy texture. For an even more intense pumpkin experience, swirl a spoonful of our homemade pumpkin butter into the cream cheese frosting itself. Finally, always serve them warm, because a gentle heat makes the spices more fragrant and the filling even more gooey. If you love this flavor profile, you must explore our ultimate guide to creating the perfect cinnamon rolls for more inspirational ideas.

Tips for Success

Best practices for results

Always use room temperature ingredients for your Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls because this allows the dough to rise more evenly and creates a softer texture. Furthermore, make sure to roll the dough out into a tight, even log before slicing to guarantee beautifully uniform rolls. For the best flavor and consistency, chill your pumpkin butter slightly before spreading it, as this prevents it from making the dough soggy and difficult to handle. Finally, always allow the baked rolls to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before frosting them so the icing doesn’t immediately melt and get absorbed. You can find more detailed guidance on handling enriched doughs in our guide on how to make cinnamon rolls.

Mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is adding too much flour to the dough while kneading, which unfortunately results in a dense and tough final product. Instead, you should lightly oil your hands and work surface to prevent sticking without incorporating extra flour. Another error is overproofing the shaped Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls, so although you want them to be puffy, you must bake them before they double in size to avoid them collapsing in the oven. Moreover, do not skip the step of covering the rolls with a towel while they proof, even though it seems simple, because this prevents the dough from drying out and forming a skin. For more solutions to common baking issues, our article on baking mistakes and fixes is an excellent resource.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

How to serve this dish

Present your warm Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls on a beautiful wooden board or a vintage cake stand for a rustic, inviting look. For a special touch, drizzle the cream cheese glaze tableside right before serving. Furthermore, a light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of toasted pecans adds wonderful texture and visual appeal.

These rolls absolutely shine at a festive holiday brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast. They also make a memorable treat for casual dinners and celebrations like Thanksgiving morning. Ultimately, the inviting aroma and taste of Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls turn any meal into a special occasion.

What goes well with it

For a beverage, a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk perfectly cuts through the sweetness. Alternatively, a chai latte complements the warm spices in these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls beautifully.

In terms of sides, a savory dish creates a fantastic balance. For instance, you can pair these sweet rolls with a hearty savory breakfast casserole. Consequently, this combination satisfies all your morning cravings.

Finally, consider adding a dollop of vanilla whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. Moreover, a side of our simple fresh fruit salad introduces a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced flavors.

Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls

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These Soft Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls are made with instant yeast, pumpkin pecan butter, and a brown sugar frosting. They’re soft and fluffy, gooey in the center, and the perfect pumpkin cinnamon roll for fall!

• Author: Michelle
• Prep Time: 150 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Total Time: 175 mins
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x
• Method: Breakfast
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (one yeast packet)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 eggs, room temperature
• 4 – 4 1/2 cups all purpose flour, plus more for rolling
• 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup – 2/3 cup pumpkin butter*
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup
• 3 Tbsp milk
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Dough:
2. Heat unsalted butter and buttermilk in a small saucepan until warm, about 112-115 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Pour in the bowl of a standing mixer, and sprinkle instant yeast and sugar over the mixture. Let stand 5 minutes.
4. Add salt, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until combined, using the paddle attachment.
5. Remove the paddle attachment and replace with the dough hook.
6. Add in 4 cups of flour, and mix with the dough hook for 5 minutes. If the dough is still sticky and has not removed itself from the sides of the bowl, add in the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, 1/4 cup at a time, and mix the dough until it is tacky, not sticky.
7. Shape dough into a ball and place the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it double in size in a warm place (about 30-60 minutes).
8. Filling:
9. Once the dough has doubled in size, turn the dough out onto a well floured surface and roll the dough into a large rectangle, roughly 12×18".
10. With a knife or rubber spatula, spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/4" border on all sides.
11. Spread pumpkin butter on top of the butter.
12. In a bowl, whisk granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice together. Generously sprinkle the mixture over the pumpkin butter.
13. Roll the dough tightly (you roll the long side), and using a sharp knife, cut the rolls into 10-12 slices.
14. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish (use a 9×13 baking dish or a large 10" pie plate).**
15. Cover loosely with plastic wrap, and let the rolls rise in a warm place for 20-30 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.
16. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Remove plastic wrap and bake the rolls for 22-25 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown.
17. Frosting:
18. In a small saucepan, melt butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and milk, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat and transfer to the bowl of your standing mixer, and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
19. With a standing mixer or hand mixer, add the powdered sugar into the brown sugar mixture, and mix until the frosting is smooth (frosting will feel thin).
20. Spread the frosting over the tops of the warm rolls immediately, or let the frosting sit and thicken up, then spread it over the rolls.
21. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

*Pumpkin butter: Using 2/3 cup pumpkin butter will make the rolls a bit more gooey. You can use homemade or store-bought pumpkin butter. My favorite is Williams-Sonoma Pumpkin Pecan Butter.