Name: Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp active dry yeast; ½ cup warm milk; ½ cup pumpkin puree; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup

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If you’re craving something that wraps you in the warmth of autumn mornings, this Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, fluffy rolls infused with rich pumpkin flavor, layered with sweet cinnamon filling, and crowned with a luscious maple glaze. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and buttery goodness that makes it an unforgettable fall treat, ideal for leisurely weekend brunches or festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver baking pan filled with nine cinnamon rolls arranged in three rows and three columns. Each cinnamon roll has golden-brown, slightly shiny tops with visible dark brown cinnamon swirls spiraled inside soft, fluffy layers. The rolls are tightly packed, with some edges touching, showing light, fluffy sides with a slight fluffiness texture. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface next to a black cooking spatula with a smooth, matte finish. The image is taken from above, showing the rolls close-up. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting these cozy pumpkin cinnamon rolls just right starts with a few simple ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and color that give these rolls their unforgettable charm.

3 cups flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and softness.
1 tbsp yeast: The magical ingredient that makes your rolls rise and become fluffy.
½ cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough perfectly.
½ cup pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, a subtle sweetness, and that irresistible fall hue.
¼ cup sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough to complement the spices.
1 egg: Contributes richness and helps bind the dough together.
¼ cup butter, melted: Creates a tender crumb and buttery flavor.
1 tsp cinnamon: Blends into the dough for a gentle spice that enhances the filling.
Filling — ½ cup brown sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon + ¼ cup butter: The decadent, gooey layer that makes each bite so comforting.
Glaze — 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp maple syrup: A sweet, sticky finish that brings everything together with a hint of maple goodness.

How to Make Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by mixing the warm milk, yeast, sugar, and pumpkin puree in a bowl. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes until it bubbles slightly. This step wakes up the yeast and incorporates the pumpkin’s moisture into the dough, setting the stage for perfect rise and softness.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Once the yeast is activated, add the flour, egg, melted butter, and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix everything until it comes together, then knead the dough for about 8 minutes. Kneading develops the gluten so your rolls have that ideal chewy yet tender texture, while the cinnamon infuses warmth right into the dough itself.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour. This rise is key—it allows the dough to double in size and become beautifully airy, making your rolls fluffier after baking.

Step 4: Roll Out and Prepare the Filling

Once risen, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top. For an extra special touch and texture, feel free to sprinkle some chopped pecans before rolling it up. This filling layer is what delivers the signature melty, spiced burst inside each roll.

Step 5: Roll, Slice, and Arrange

Carefully roll up the dough from one long edge, tucking it tightly as you go to create beautiful spirals. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 12 even pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space for expansion during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your cinnamon rolls in a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re puffed up and golden brown on top, and the house smells like cozy autumn bliss.

Step 7: Drizzle with Maple Glaze

While the rolls are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar and maple syrup to make the glaze. Drizzle it generously over the hot rolls so it melts into all the nooks and crannies, adding that final touch of sweet, sticky happiness to your Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe.

How to Serve Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe

A silver baking tray filled with nine cinnamon rolls arranged in a 3 by 3 grid, each roll showing several spiral layers of golden brown dough with a light spread of creamy, white icing on top, giving a smooth texture that contrasts with the soft swirls. The rolls sit on a white parchment paper lining inside the tray. To the upper left side is a white bowl containing light brown cinnamon filling with two cinnamon sticks crossing on top, and behind it, a white bowl with a wooden spoon resting in thick white icing. A woman's hand holds a small golden spoon dipping into the cinnamon filling. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a light-colored cloth to the right of the tray. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top adds a wonderful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft rolls. You can also dust a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on the glaze for extra aroma and seasonal flair.

Side Dishes

These pumpkin cinnamon rolls shine best with a simple cup of spiced chai, coffee, or creamy hot chocolate. If you want to round out your brunch spread, consider savory options like scrambled eggs or a crisp green salad to balance the indulgence with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these rolls on a wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins and autumn leaves for a charming, festive display. You can also pipe the glaze in zigzags for a visually appealing finish or present them in individual ramekins as personal pumpkin cinnamon roll pots.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend freshness, refrigerate them, but be aware the texture might firm up slightly; just reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, these rolls freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the rolls in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or reheat in a preheated 350 °F oven for about 10 minutes to revive that fresh-baked softness. Adding a touch of extra maple syrup or butter on top before warming intensifies the indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is the easiest option when pumpkin isn’t in season. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.

What can I substitute for maple syrup in the glaze?

If you’re out of maple syrup, honey or a light corn syrup can be used as alternatives. They’ll still provide the sweetness and sticky texture, though the distinctive maple flavor will be a bit different.

How do I know when the yeast is properly activated?

You’ll see the mixture bubble or foam on the surface after 5 minutes if the yeast is active. If nothing appears, your yeast may be old or the liquid too hot or cold, so consider starting over with fresh yeast and the right temperature for the milk.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, use vegan butter, and swap the egg for a flax egg or applesauce. The texture may vary slightly but they will still taste delicious and cozy.

What’s the best way to get that soft, fluffy texture in the rolls?

Thorough kneading to develop gluten, allowing the dough to rise fully, and baking at the correct temperature all contribute to that unbeatable fluffiness. Don’t rush the rising time—it’s essential for light, airy rolls.

Final Thoughts

This Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe isn’t just a breakfast; it’s a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a little fall-inspired indulgence. I truly hope you give these rolls a try—they’ll fill your kitchen with the sweetest smells and your heart with joy, making every autumn morning a little bit cozier.