Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing wafting through your home. This recipe is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall while creating a cozy moment for your family. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling work and kids or a professional looking to impress your loved ones, these rolls are a quick solution that brings warmth and joy to any table. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a cherished tradition in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make! In under two hours, you can whip up a batch that fills your home with a heavenly scent. The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, the creamy maple icing adds a sweet touch that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of your rolls, providing structure and texture.
- Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and that lovely fall flavor. Canned or homemade works great!
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the spices and enhance the dough.
- Milk: Helps activate the yeast and keeps the rolls tender.
- Butter: Melted butter enriches the dough, giving it a rich flavor.
- Egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping the dough rise and adding richness.
- Active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes your rolls fluffy and light.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that brings comfort and a hint of sweetness.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds depth and a cozy aroma to your rolls.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like richness to the filling.
- Ground cinnamon: Used in the filling for that classic cinnamon roll taste.
- Cream cheese: The star of the icing, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the icing and gives it that smooth finish.
- Maple syrup: Adds a delightful sweetness and a hint of fall flavor to the icing.
For those looking to switch things up, consider using whole wheat flour for a heartier roll or adding nuts for a delightful crunch. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, gooey treat that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Start by combining warm milk and active dry yeast in a bowl. The milk should be warm, not hot—think of it as a cozy bath for the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll see it start to bubble and foam, which means it’s alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Once your yeast is frothy, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the pumpkin puree, melted butter, sugar, egg, and spices. The warm spices will fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma. Mix everything until it’s well combined, creating a lovely, fragrant mixture.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Now, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your wet mixture. I like to do this in batches to avoid a flour explosion! Mix until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Time to get your hands a little messy! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. Think of it as giving your dough a little workout—it’ll thank you later!
Step 5: Let the Dough Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. You’re looking for it to double in size. This is the perfect time to sip on a warm cup of tea while you wait!
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once your dough has risen, it’s time to roll it out! On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread it with softened butter, then sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the top. This is where the magic happens—your rolls will be bursting with flavor!
Step 7: Shape the Rolls
Now, roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, creating a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into equal pieces. I usually aim for about 12 rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish, cut side up, and get ready for the second rise!
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture we all love. You can use this time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Bake the Rolls
Once your rolls have puffed up nicely, it’s time to bake! Pop them in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. The smell will be heavenly, and you might find it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they cool!
Step 10: Prepare the Icing
While the rolls are baking, let’s whip up that creamy maple icing. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and maple syrup until smooth. This icing is the cherry on top of your delicious creation!
Step 11: Drizzle Icing
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing generously over the top. Watch as it melts into the warm rolls, creating a dreamy, sweet topping. Now, it’s time to dig in!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Don’t rush the rising time; it’s key for fluffy rolls.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the rolls for clean edges.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough. A wine bottle can serve as a fun alternative!
- Sharp knife: For cutting the rolls. A pizza cutter is a great substitute.
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works best. Any oven-safe dish will do.
Variations of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier roll.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.
- Spiced Up: Experiment with additional spices like ginger or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk and a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan-friendly version.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing
- Warm Beverages: Pair these rolls with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy treat.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
- Presentation: Dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for an appealing finish.
- Brunch Delight: These rolls make a perfect centerpiece for a fall brunch spread.
FAQs about Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing
Can I make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking in the morning. This makes for a delightful breakfast treat with minimal morning fuss!
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use applesauce or mashed bananas as a substitute. While the flavor will change slightly, they’ll still add moisture and sweetness to your rolls.
How do I store leftover rolls?
To keep your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven for a warm treat!
Can I use a different icing?
What’s the best way to reheat these rolls?
The best way to reheat your rolls is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will keep them soft and warm, just like when they were freshly baked!
Summarizing the Joy of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing
There’s something truly magical about baking Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing. The process fills your home with warmth and the sweet scent of fall, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around the table. Each bite is a delightful blend of soft, fluffy dough and creamy icing, making it a treat that brings smiles and happy memories. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or shared at a festive gathering, these rolls are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of love, comfort, and the joy of home-cooked goodness.
PrintPumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Icing Recipe You’ll Love!
Delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls topped with a creamy maple icing, perfect for fall.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add pumpkin puree, melted butter, sugar, egg, and spices to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut into rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- For the icing, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Drizzle icing over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter in the icing.
- These rolls can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Adjust the sweetness of the icing to your preference.
