Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect autumn treat that combines the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin and chai spices with the beloved cinnamon roll dough. These soft, gooey, and indulgent rolls are filled with a spiced pumpkin filling, drizzled with a luscious cream cheese frosting, and offer a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. Perfect for chilly mornings, family gatherings, or holiday breakfasts, these cinnamon rolls offer comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you are a pumpkin lover or a chai fan, this recipe is a must-try for the season!

Making cinnamon rolls at home may seem daunting, but this recipe breaks it down into simple steps that anyone can follow. The dough is soft, light, and tender, thanks to the addition of pumpkin puree, while the spiced chai filling adds a cozy, aromatic touch. Paired with a velvety cream cheese frosting, these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are truly irresistible. Read on for a step-by-step guide to creating these warm, spiced rolls that will fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma and leave your taste buds dancing.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Irresistibly Soft and Gooey: These cinnamon rolls have the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough and a rich, gooey center. The pumpkin and chai spice filling creates a flavorful contrast to the pillowy dough, making each bite pure heaven.
• Perfect for Fall and Holiday Gatherings: The addition of pumpkin and chai spices makes these rolls a seasonal favorite, perfect for cozy mornings or holiday celebrations. The warm spices and pumpkin flavor will get you in the fall spirit every time.
• Customizable Frosting: While this recipe features a delicious cream cheese frosting, you can easily tweak it to your preference by adding different flavors, such as maple or vanilla, for extra sweetness.
• Homemade Delight: There’s nothing quite like the feeling of pulling a batch of warm, freshly baked cinnamon rolls from the oven. The satisfaction of homemade cinnamon rolls with a pumpkin twist is a true treat for your senses.
• A Fun and Impressive Recipe: These cinnamon rolls look as amazing as they taste, and they make a beautiful centerpiece for any breakfast spread or dessert table. Plus, they are sure to impress guests or loved ones when you serve them warm.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 3 hours (includes dough rise time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (not including resting and rising time)
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (baking time)
• Servings: Approximately 12 rolls
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per roll, depending on size and frosting.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 20-25g

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs

For the Pumpkin Chai Filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (if needed, to adjust frosting consistency)

Special Equipment

To make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, having the following equipment on hand will make the process easier:

1. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need several mixing bowls—one for the dough, one for the filling, and one for the frosting.
2. Stand Mixer (Optional): While you can mix the dough by hand, using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment makes kneading much easier and quicker.
3. Rolling Pin: A rolling pin is essential for rolling out the dough to the desired thickness and shape.
4. 9×13-inch Baking Dish: This size is ideal for baking the cinnamon rolls. If you don’t have this exact size, a similar-sized dish will work as long as the rolls fit snugly together.
5. Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper will make it easier to remove the rolls once baked and prevent them from sticking.
6. Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is handy for spreading the melted butter on the dough before rolling it up with the filling.
7. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect cinnamon rolls, so ensure you have standard measuring cups and spoons on hand.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Mix the dry ingredients together until well combined.

In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, pumpkin puree, butter, and eggs. Stir until the butter begins to melt into the mixture. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 5 minutes.

Once the dough is kneaded, form it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

2. Make the Pumpkin Chai Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the pumpkin chai filling. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.

In a separate small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add the pumpkin puree to the melted butter and stir until well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Once the dough has finished rising, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 16 inches by 12 inches.

Spread the pumpkin-butter mixture evenly over the dough using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon. Then, sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture evenly on top.

3. Roll and Cut the Dough

Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal the dough. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the dough into 12 equal pieces.

Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a 9×13-inch baking dish, placing them close together so they will rise and bake into soft, gooey rolls. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes.

4. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have finished their second rise, place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Once done, remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes in the pan.

5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.

6. Frost the Cinnamon Rolls

Once the cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. The frosting will melt slightly and create a deliciously creamy topping. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise, as this is what gives the rolls their soft, fluffy texture. If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area, such as near a warm oven or in a turned-off oven with the light on.
• Use Fresh Yeast: Always make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to expired yeast, so always check the expiration date before using.
• Roll the Dough Evenly: When rolling out the dough, try to keep the thickness even across the entire surface so the cinnamon rolls bake uniformly. If the dough is too thick in some areas, the rolls may bake unevenly.
• Add More Spice if Desired: If you love chai spices, feel free to add a little more cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom to the filling or frosting for an extra burst of flavor.
• Let the Rolls Cool Slightly Before Frosting: If you frost the rolls too early, the frosting might melt completely into the rolls, making them too gooey. Allow the rolls to cool for at least 5 minutes before applying the frosting.

Variations of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Maple Frosting: Swap out the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze made with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a bit of butter for a different flavor profile.
• Nutty Pumpkin Chai Rolls: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra texture and a nutty flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Chai Rolls: For an added indulgence, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the pumpkin filling before rolling the dough.
• Vegan Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the butter with a non-dairy alternative, use plant-based milk, and swap out the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg for a vegan version of these cinnamon rolls.

Storage and Shelf Life

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze the unbaked rolls before the second rise. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake them, let them thaw and rise for 1-2 hours before baking as usual.

For frosted rolls, store them in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Pair these delightful rolls with complementary dishes or drinks to enhance the experience:

• Coffee or Chai Latte: The spiced flavors of chai and cinnamon are the perfect match for a warm cup of coffee or a chai latte.
• Apple Cider: A refreshing glass of apple cider is an excellent drink to enjoy alongside the rich flavors of these cinnamon rolls.
• Scrambled Eggs or Bacon: For a more savory breakfast or brunch, serve these cinnamon rolls with scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to balance out the sweetness.

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Conclusion

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fall indulgence, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and chai with the classic appeal of cinnamon rolls. The soft, gooey rolls, spiced filling, and creamy frosting come together to create a truly satisfying treat that’s perfect for any fall occasion. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast or sharing them with friends and family, these cinnamon rolls will quickly become a favorite. With a little time and care, you can create these mouthwatering delights in the comfort of your own kitchen and enjoy the cozy, spiced flavors of autumn all year long.