Have you ever craved a warm, gooey pastry on a chilly autumn morning? What if you could combine the comforting flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon with a creamy filling? Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect answer! These delightful rolls not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also capture the essence of fall in every bite. In this post, we’ll guide you through making these irresistible treats, ensuring they become a staple in your seasonal baking repertoire.

Ingredients List

To create the perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and seasonal ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dough Ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for your rolls.
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough.
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth.
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk: Activates the yeast.
• 1/3 cup (80ml) unsalted butter, melted: Richness in the dough.
• 1/2 cup (120g) pumpkin puree: For flavor and moisture.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together.

Filling Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened: Provides a rich, creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar: Adds a deep sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The signature spice for cinnamon rolls.
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened: Enhances the filling’s creaminess.

Icing Ingredients:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the icing.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor.

Suggested Substitutions:

• All-purpose flour: Can be replaced with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Pumpkin puree: Substitute with applesauce for a different flavor profile.
• Cream cheese: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix melted butter, pumpkin puree, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture once it’s frothy.
4. Combine Everything: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Roll and Fill

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
2. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Roll It Up: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.

Step 5: Cut and Second Rise

1. Slice the Rolls: Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Second Rise: Cover the dish with a cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing

1. Mix the Icing: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle Over Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over the top.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per roll (approximately):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 5g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and nutrients without compromising flavor.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut down on the sugar in the dough and filling by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added healthy fats and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving ideas:

• Serve Warm: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience.
• Pair with Coffee: Complement with a cup of your favorite coffee or chai tea for a cozy breakfast.
• Top with Whipped Cream: For an indulgent dessert, add a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Activating the Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and activated properly for the dough to rise.
2. Over-kneading the Dough: Knead just until smooth; overworking can lead to tough rolls.
3. Skipping the Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls fresh:

• Store in an Airtight Container: Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Storage: They can last up to a week in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
• Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Freeze individual rolls wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their soft, gooey centers and rich cream cheese filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the fridge, and bake it the next morning.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can be great alternatives for the filling.

3. How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.