Go Back

Pumpkin Shaped Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Delicious pumpkin-shaped cinnamon rolls topped with creamy frosting, perfect for fall gatherings and breakfast treats.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American, Fall
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the dough

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup pure pumpkin puree

For the filling

  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the cream cheese frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk (optional for consistency) Add as needed for desired frosting consistency.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Clear your kitchen surface and gather all ingredients and measuring tools.
  • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes or until frothy.
  • In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Pour the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and pumpkin puree into the dry ingredients.
  • Mix until combined, using your hands as necessary.

Dough Preparation

  • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean towel. Let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

Filling Preparation

  • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg together.

Assembly

  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface.
  • Roll it out into a rectangle, about 16x12 inches thick.
  • Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it.
  • Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seam to seal it.
  • Cut the roll into 12-15 slices using a sharp knife or kitchen string.
  • Arrange the slices in a greased baking pan, leaving space between them.
  • Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Baking

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before frosting!

Frosting Preparation

  • In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter, beating until smooth.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Add milk if necessary for desired consistency.
  • Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can freeze the rolls for up to 3 months.
Keyword Cinnamon Rolls, Cream Cheese Frosting, Fall Baking, Harvest Treats, Pumpkin Rolls