Best Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll (Print)

Fluffy pumpkin cinnamon rolls baked with spice and topped with creamy frosting for cozy, sweet comfort.

# Components:

→ Dough

01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
08 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
09 - 2/3 cup whole milk, lukewarm
10 - 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
11 - 1 large egg, room temperature

→ Filling

12 - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
13 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
14 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
15 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

→ Cream Cheese Frosting

16 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
17 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
18 - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
19 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
20 - 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, as needed

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, blend all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger together.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, lukewarm milk, pumpkin purée, and the egg until thoroughly combined.
03 - Add wet mixture to dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or with a mixer for 6 to 8 minutes, adding more flour as needed until smooth and elastic.
04 - Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rest in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
05 - Punch down dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16 by 12 inch rectangle.
06 - Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the filling. Spread softened butter over rolled dough and sprinkle evenly with the sugar mixture.
07 - Carefully roll dough up from the long side into a tight log. Slice evenly into 12 portions.
08 - Arrange rolls in a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes, until puffy.
09 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 22 to 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
10 - Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then blend in milk as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
11 - Spread cream cheese frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses real pumpkin purée for extra flavor and moisture
  • Features warm autumn spices throughout both dough and filling
  • Made from pantry basics with no hard-to-find ingredients
  • Can be prepared ahead for easy morning baking
02 -
  • Perfect make-ahead treat for family gatherings or weekend brunch
  • Stays soft for days with proper storage
  • Frosting can be customized to taste
03 -
  • Do not rush the kneading—you want a smooth elastic dough for best texture
  • Check yeast's expiration date for a proper, reliable rise
  • Roll the dough evenly so every swirl is generous with filling