Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, sweet treat that perfectly captures the spirit of fall, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These rolls bring together the tender warmth of pumpkin-infused dough, the spicy cinnamon-sugar filling, and an irresistibly smooth maple cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a festive brunch or just a special weekend indulgence, this recipe balances comforting autumn flavors with a soft, pillowy texture that makes every bite feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your hands on simple, quality ingredients is the secret to achieving that perfect flavor and texture in these cinnamon rolls. Each element plays a crucial role, bringing moisture, spice, richness, and sweetness that build the delicious layers of the dish.

• Warm milk (110°F): Activates the yeast and helps the dough rise beautifully.
• Active dry yeast: The magical leavening agent that makes the dough light and fluffy.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for fermentation.
• Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, a subtle earthiness, and that warm fall color.
• Large egg: Binds ingredients together and enriches the dough’s texture.
• Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Delivers richness and tenderness to both dough and filling.
• All-purpose flour: Builds the structure of the dough for the perfect chew.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: Layer on the classic autumn spice warmth throughout the dough.
• Brown sugar: Deepens the filling’s flavor with its molasses richness.
• Pumpkin pie spice: Uplifts the filling with a cozy spice blend.
• Cream cheese: The base for a luscious, tangy frosting.
• Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic sweetness to the frosting.
• Pure maple syrup: Brings a natural, caramel-like sweetness to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Begin by mixing warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl. Allowing this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy signals that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic on the dough.

Step 2: Combine wet ingredients

In a larger bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, egg, and melted butter until you get a smooth, even blend. This crucial step ensures your dough stays tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients and yeast mixture

Gradually stir in the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the foamy yeast mixture. As the dough begins to form, you’ll notice the fragrant spices weave through the pumpkin’s sweetness—this is where the base flavor builds.

Step 4: Knead the dough

Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes. This process develops the gluten, giving your rolls that soft yet elastic bite you’re aiming for.

Step 5: First rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise somewhere warm until it doubles in size, usually about an hour. This first rise brings life and fluffiness to your rolls.

Step 6: Prepare the filling

While the dough is rising, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. This spice-laden butter filling is what will swirl inside each roll for layers of flavor and moisture.

Step 7: Roll out the dough

After the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle. Having the dough evenly rolled helps in creating perfectly sized rolls.

Step 8: Spread the filling

Spread the prepared butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on one long side free. This untouched edge will help seal the rolls when you roll them up tight.

Step 9: Roll and seal

Carefully roll the dough up from the long edge with filling, pinching the seam firmly to seal it so none of that delicious filling escapes during baking.

Step 10: Cut into pieces

Cut the rolled log into 12 even slices and arrange them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Each slice is a promise of gooey, spiced goodness.

Step 11: Second rise

Cover the dish and let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes. This second rise ensures extra softness and height once baked.

Step 12: Bake to golden perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cinnamon rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, until they turn a beautiful golden brown, filling your kitchen with that unmistakable autumnal aroma.

Step 13: Prepare the maple cream cheese frosting

While the rolls bake, beat cream cheese and softened butter together until creamy and smooth. This silky base is the foundation for your luscious frosting.

Step 14: Add flavor and sweetness

Mix in vanilla extract, pure maple syrup, and powdered sugar, combining until the frosting is perfectly smooth and ready to coat those warm rolls.

Step 15: Frost the rolls

Let the rolls cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then spread the maple cream cheese frosting generously over the top, allowing it to melt slightly into every crevice.

Step 16: Serve and enjoy!

Serve these Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe warm for the ultimate comforting treat. Watch smiles grow with each sweet, soft bite.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic maple cream cheese frosting is divine on its own, sprinkling a few toasted pecans or walnuts on top adds a delightful crunch and nutty dimension. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the aroma and make your presentation look extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair these pumpkin cinnamon rolls with a cup of hot spiced apple cider or freshly brewed coffee to complement the warm spices. A simple side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, can balance the sweetness and make your brunch or breakfast spread feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the rolls stacked in a large rustic basket lined with a cozy cloth napkin. Alternatively, turning these rolls into pull-apart portions on a wooden board encourages interactive, family-style sharing that’s perfect for gatherings. Drizzle extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of edible flowers to wow your guests visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chilling helps keep the maple cream cheese frosting fresh and the rolls moist, making it easy to enjoy a treat the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after cutting and placing them in the pan—just cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge, let them rise again briefly, and bake as usual. Baked rolls also freeze well; wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag to enjoy later.

Reheating

To warm up refrigerated or frozen cinnamon rolls, microwave for about 20-30 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until warm through. You can add a dollop of extra maple cream cheese frosting afterward for a fresh, melty touch.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, providing consistent moisture and flavor. Just be sure not to use pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

What can I substitute if I don’t have maple syrup?

If maple syrup isn’t on hand, you can use honey or a mild corn syrup in your cream cheese frosting. However, maple syrup adds that unique, rich flavor that truly elevates the frosting’s taste.

How can I make these rolls dairy-free?

Try substituting dairy milk with almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives. The soft texture and incredible flavors will still shine through beautifully!

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, doubling the recipe is straightforward. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish or multiple pans to accommodate the extra rolls and allow enough space for rising and baking evenly.

Why are my cinnamon rolls not soft enough?

Softness largely depends on proper kneading, rising times, and oven temperature. Make sure the dough is elastic after kneading, allow both rises to double in size, and bake until just golden. Overbaking can dry rolls out, so watch closely towards the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the cozy charm and utterly delicious experience of these Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. From mixing the dough to devouring the last sticky, sweet bite, this recipe invites warmth and joy into your kitchen. Trust me, once you bake these rolls, they’ll become your go-to autumn treat that everyone asks for again and again. So grab your ingredients and get ready to fall in love with pumpkin all over again!

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