If you’re looking for the ultimate fall baking recipe, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls will become your go-to treat. They’re soft, fluffy, packed with warm spices, and smothered in rich brown butter cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re planning an impromptu cozy brunch or prepping ahead for a holiday breakfast, this recipe has you covered.

These homemade pumpkin cinnamon rolls are filled with real pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and layered with brown sugar and cinnamon for the perfect autumnal bite. You’ll appreciate the depth of flavor that browned butter adds to both the dough and the frosting. If you’ve never worked with browned butter, check out how to brown butter properly — it’s easier than you think and takes this recipe to the next level.

Baking with yeast dough might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the right steps — and using tools like a kitchen scale for accuracy (see why a kitchen scale matters in baking) — you’ll get consistent results every time. If you’re in a time crunch, the make-ahead option allows you to do most of the work the night before, then simply pop them in the oven in the morning.

Why Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Are a Fall Favorite

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls combine two beloved fall flavors — pumpkin and cinnamon — into one warm, fluffy bite.
They’re versatile: enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a cozy afternoon treat.
The scent of cinnamon and pumpkin spice baking in the oven creates the ultimate fall ambiance.

Make Right Now vs. Make Ahead: What’s the Difference?

Make Right Now: The whole process (including rising time) takes about 3½ hours. Great for weekends or relaxed mornings.
Make Ahead: Prep everything the night before, refrigerate the rolls, and bake fresh the next day. Perfect for holidays or guests.

Both options deliver soft, fluffy rolls with golden-brown tops and gooey centers — the choice is yours!

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Each ingredient in these rolls plays a vital role in delivering flavor, texture, and structure:

Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and that signature autumn flavor. Be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves — the spice profile of fall.
Browned Butter: Deepens the flavor with rich, nutty undertones. Used in the dough, filling, and frosting.
Instant Yeast: Quick-rising and reliable. Make sure it’s fresh for proper activation.
Dry Milk Powder: Optional, but it enhances the richness and texture of the dough.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough; measure carefully for best results.
Cream Cheese: For a tangy, creamy frosting that balances the sweetness of the roll.

Step-by-Step Dough Preparation

Activate Yeast: Mix yeast with warm water (around 110–115°F) and let it foam.
Mix Ingredients: Add sugar, browned butter, pumpkin puree, egg, milk powder, and spices.
Add Flour: Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Knead: Use a dough hook for 8 minutes or knead by hand.
Proofing: Let dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).

Creating the Filling: The Pumpkin Spice Core

The secret to irresistibly gooey cinnamon rolls is the spiced filling:

Mix together:
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
Melt 6 tbsp browned butter and spread over the rolled-out dough.
Evenly sprinkle the spice-sugar mixture to cover the surface.

Rolling, Cutting, and Arranging the Dough

Roll dough into a large rectangle (about 16×14 inches).
Roll tightly from the long edge to form a log.
Slice into 12 even pieces using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss.
Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13” baking dish.

Baking Options: Now or Later

Same-Day Baking:

Let the rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 22–27 minutes, or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.

Make-Ahead Baking:

After placing the rolls in the pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Let them sit at room temperature for 45–60 minutes before baking.
Bake as usual and frost while warm.

For baking safety, especially with yeast-based recipes, follow USDA yeast and baking safety tips.

Cream Cheese Brown Butter Frosting

This frosting melts into every nook and cranny of the warm rolls — it’s the ultimate finish:

4 oz cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup browned butter (softened)
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp heavy cream
1½ cups powdered sugar

Directions:

Beat cream cheese and browned butter until fluffy (2–3 mins).
Add vanilla, cream, and powdered sugar.
Mix on low, then whip on high for 4 minutes.
Slather generously over warm rolls.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Room Temp: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days, but bring to room temp before eating.
Freezer:
- Unbaked: Freeze before second rise. Thaw overnight, rise, and bake.
- Baked: Freeze individually and microwave for 20–30 seconds to reheat.

Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

Try these customizations:

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
Swap cream cheese frosting with a maple glaze for extra fall flavor.
Use gluten-free flour to make them celiac-friendly.
Make them vegan using plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make pumpkin cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temp, let rise, and bake the next day.

What is the difference between pumpkin puree and pie filling?
Pumpkin puree is pure pumpkin, while pie filling contains sugar and spices — not interchangeable in baking.

Why didn’t my cinnamon rolls rise?
Your yeast may be expired or the dough was kept in a cold area. Always use fresh yeast and a warm spot for proofing.

Can I freeze pumpkin cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking. Just allow time to thaw and rise if frozen before baking.

Do I need to use a stand mixer for the dough?
Nope! You can knead by hand — it just takes a bit more effort. A mixer simply speeds things up.

Conclusion

Whether you’re baking a cozy treat for yourself or prepping breakfast for guests, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls offer the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and ease. The make-ahead option gives you flexibility, while the from-scratch method rewards you with warm rolls straight from the oven. Try them once, and you’ll want to make them every fall!