Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Delight

Get ready to indulge in autumn’s favorite treat: Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls! These soft, fluffy rolls combine rich pumpkin goodness with sweet cream cheese, making them a perfect fall delight. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this step-by-step guide will help you create a warm, cozy treat that impresses everyone. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen smell irresistible!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– ½ cup pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup brown sugar (for filling)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for filling)
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
– 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Gathering these ingredients will help you create the best pumpkin spice cream cheese cinnamon rolls. Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and texture.
All-purpose flour gives the rolls their structure, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. Active dry yeast helps the rolls rise, making them light and fluffy. Salt enhances the flavors, and the spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—bring that warm, cozy taste.
Warm milk activates the yeast, while melted butter adds moisture. The egg binds the ingredients together. Pumpkin puree is the star, adding rich flavor and moisture. Vanilla extract boosts the taste. For the filling, brown sugar and cinnamon create a sweet contrast to the cream cheese.
Finally, the frosting made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla is the perfect sweet finish. Each ingredient works together to create delicious rolls. Enjoy the blend of tastes and textures in every bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Dough
1. Start by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl.
2. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. The mixture should become frothy and bubbly.
3. Once ready, mix in the melted butter, egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
4. Add in the ground cinnamon and nutmeg, and stir well.
5. Gradually add the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. If it sticks, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Kneading and Rising
1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth.
4. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Preparing the Filling and Shaping Rolls
1. While the dough rises, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. After the dough has risen, punch it down gently.
3. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
4. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough.
5. Sprinkle the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture across the cream cheese layer.
6. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
7. Pinch the seam closed to seal it well.
Final Rising and Baking
1. Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces.
2. Arrange the slices in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving space between them.
3. Cover the pan with a clean cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
To make great cinnamon rolls, you need to activate the yeast. Start with warm milk, around 110°F. This warmth helps the yeast grow. If your yeast does not froth, it may be old or inactive.
Humidity can change how much flour you need. On humid days, use less flour. If your dough feels sticky, add a little more flour. Keep mixing until it feels smooth.
Filling Techniques
Spreading cream cheese evenly takes practice. Use a spatula or a butter knife. Start from the middle and push outward. Be gentle to keep the dough intact.
When rolling the dough, start at one end. Roll it tightly but not too tight. You want to keep the filling inside. Pinch the seam closed to hold everything together.
Frosting Tips
You can change the frosting to fit your taste. Add more vanilla for extra flavor. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or cinnamon.
For the right frosting consistency, whisk with milk slowly. Aim for a smooth, drizzling texture. If it’s too thick, add more milk a teaspoon at a time.
Variations
Flavor Adjustments
You can make these rolls even better! Try adding chocolate chips. The sweet chocolate adds a fun twist. Nuts also work great. Chopped pecans or walnuts give a nice crunch. You can also switch up the spices. Instead of just cinnamon and nutmeg, try ginger or allspice. Each spice can change the taste in a unique way.
Dietary Modifications
Want a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free flour. It works well in this recipe. You can also make it dairy-free. Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free spread. Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk. This makes the rolls kinder to those with dietary needs.
Creative Serving Ideas
These rolls taste amazing with seasonal fruits. Serve them with fresh apples or pears. The sweetness pairs well with the spice. You can also enjoy them with drinks. A warm cup of coffee or tea makes a perfect match. The flavors blend together for a cozy treat.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To store leftover cinnamon rolls, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in the fridge. They can last about a week in the fridge.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save cinnamon rolls for later, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool down to room temperature. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, take them out of the freezer. Place them in the fridge overnight to thaw. For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10-15 minutes. This will make them soft and tasty again.
FAQs
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
You can use mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Both add a similar texture and flavor. If you need a quick fix, you can also use canned pumpkin pie filling. Just remember, it has added spices and sugar.
How do I know when my rolls are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color on top. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your rolls are ready. The rolls should feel soft and spring back when touched.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dough, let it rise, then punch it down. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, let it come to room temperature before shaping the rolls.
How long will the cinnamon rolls stay fresh?
These rolls stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use the dough cycle on your bread machine. Simply add the ingredients in the order recommended by the machine. Once it’s done, shape and bake your rolls as usual.
Making these cinnamon rolls is fun and rewarding. We covered the key ingredients, from flour and sugar to pumpkin puree and cream cheese. You learned step-by-step instructions to prep, knead, and bake these tasty treats. Plus, we shared helpful tips on perfecting your dough, filling techniques, and even frosting variations.
Remember, you can get creative with flavors and dietary needs. Store them properly for a longer shelf life. Enjoy these warm rolls for breakfast, dessert, or any time! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills.
