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Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls combine soft, fluffy dough with sweet pumpkin and cinnamon flavors, offering a healthier alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure and texture for fluffy rolls.
  • 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree Adds moisture, natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamin A.
  • 1/4 cup Sugar Sweetens the dough; can substitute with low-calorie sweetener.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Milk (warm) Activates the yeast; plant-based options can be used.
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast Needed for dough to rise.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (melted) Adds richness; can be replaced with coconut oil.
Filling Ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adds warmth and spice.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Sweetens the filling and creates a caramelized crust.
Icing Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Cream Cheese Whipped for icing.
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup Adds extra sweetness and flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances icing flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour, pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, and the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If too sticky, add more flour.
  4. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Shaping and Filling
  1. Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
  2. Spread the melted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon on top.
  3. Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
  4. Cut the rolled dough into 1-inch thick slices, yielding about 12 rolls.
Final Rise and Baking
  1. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and cover them. Allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Making the Icing
  1. In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Once the rolls are baked, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls before serving.

Notes

For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour. Make dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Try a pumpkin glaze for added flavor.