Introduction
Is there anything cozier than the scent of warm spices and baking dough wafting through your kitchen on a crisp morning? Honestly, that feeling of anticipation, knowing something truly special is coming out of the oven, is pure magic. Today, we are creating that exact feeling with the ultimate autumnal treat: Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls. This recipe wraps all the warmth of the season into one irresistible, gooey, and utterly delicious pastry that will have everyone begging for the recipe.
So what exactly are Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls? Essentially, we take the classic, beloved cinnamon roll and give it a full fall makeover. We enrich the dough with real pumpkin puree for incredible moisture and a subtle earthy sweetness. Then, instead of a standard cinnamon-sugar filling, we slather on a generous layer of spiced pumpkin butter, which creates an intensely flavorful and aromatic center. Finally, a smooth cream cheese glaze crowns each roll, balancing the spices with its tangy sweetness. This recipe matters because it transforms a simple baking project into a celebratory event, perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply treating yourself. It fits our blog’s mission perfectly, as we always strive to share approachable recipes that deliver restaurant-quality results right in your own home. For more inspiration on using seasonal flavors, explore our collection of incredible fall desserts. Furthermore, if you find yourself with extra pumpkin puree, you must try our famous pumpkin chocolate chip cookies next. They are another family favorite that captures the essence of the season in every single bite.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it truly marks the beginning of fall in our household. I started making these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls years ago as a way to welcome the changing leaves and cooler weather, and it quickly became our cherished Saturday morning tradition. The process of kneading the soft, orange-hued dough feels meditative, and the smell as they bake never fails to bring my entire family gathered in the kitchen, plates in hand. For me, these rolls are more than just a breakfast; they are a warm, delicious memory in the making.
Health and Nutrition
Why it’s good for your body
These Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls offer a surprisingly nutritious twist on a classic treat. First, pumpkin puree provides a powerful dose of vitamin A, which actively supports healthy vision and a strong immune system. Furthermore, the warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg do more than just add flavor; they also deliver antioxidants that help combat inflammation in your body.
Additionally, this recipe uses pumpkin butter as its star ingredient, which often contains less sugar than traditional fillings. Consequently, you can enjoy a sweet pastry without the typical sugar crash. Moreover, pumpkin contributes a good amount of fiber, which actively promotes healthy digestion and helps you feel satisfied longer. Therefore, each bite of these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls supports your well-being in multiple ways.
Finally, enjoying what you eat is a vital part of health, and these rolls certainly deliver on joy. Ultimately, treating yourself to a homemade Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Roll means you control the quality of every ingredient, making it a wholesome choice for a comforting breakfast or snack.
How it fits in a healthy lifestyle
You can absolutely enjoy these Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls as part of a balanced diet. Think of them as a celebratory breakfast for the weekend or a special dessert rather than an everyday item. Pairing one with a source of protein, like a glass of milk or a Greek yogurt, can help balance your blood sugar and keep you full. This approach aligns perfectly with building sustainable eating habits that don’t feel restrictive.
If you have specific dietary needs, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For more ideas on creating delicious treats that cater to various needs, explore our guide on gluten-free baking. Remember, a healthy lifestyle is all about flexibility and finding joy in your food. For more inspiration on balancing indulgences with nutrition, check out our tips for healthy meal prep that can help you stay on track throughout your busy week.
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Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls
Description
Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls swirled with sweet pumpkin butter and topped with a creamy glaze.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet instant yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 tbsp softened butter
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pumpkin butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Add warm milk, pumpkin puree, butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread pumpkin butter evenly, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll dough tightly from the long end. Cut into 9 slices and place in a greased baking pan. Let rise 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or until golden. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
How to Prepare This Dish
Steps and time-saving tips
First, gather all your ingredients to make the process smooth and efficient. Next, whisk together your warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. Meanwhile, combine the flour, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, then stir everything until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for several minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. For a fantastic time-saving tip, use a stand mixer with a dough hook to handle the kneading for you. Afterwards, place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size. This usually takes about an hour, so you can prepare your filling during this wait.
Roll the risen dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Then, generously spread your homemade pumpkin butter over the entire surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon-sugar mixture over the pumpkin butter layer. Carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the long side. Use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife to slice the log into even rolls. Place these rolls snugly into a buttered baking dish. Let them rise again for another thirty minutes until they look puffy. Finally, bake your Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls until they turn golden brown and your kitchen smells incredible.