There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon buns wafting through your home on a crisp autumn morning. Add the seasonal magic of pumpkin, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate fall treat: Pumpkin Cinnamon Buns. These soft, fluffy rolls are packed with warm spices, sweet pumpkin goodness, and topped with a luscious vanilla glaze, making them perfect for cozy mornings, holiday gatherings, or as an indulgent weekend project.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone looking to try their hand at a new recipe, these pumpkin cinnamon buns are an excellent choice. Let’s dive into how to make this autumnal favorite from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Buns are perfect for:
- Fall Lovers: Embrace the flavors of the season with pumpkin, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla.
- Family Gatherings: Impress your loved ones with homemade buns that look and taste like they’re from a bakery.
- Beginner Bakers: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
Not only are they packed with warm, cozy flavors, but the pumpkin puree also makes these buns extra moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
Mashed sweet potato or butternut squash puree works as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Can I skip the glaze?
Certainly! These rolls are delicious on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer a less sweet finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: For combining ingredients and kneading the dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Rolling pin: To roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Greased baking dish: For baking the rolls.
- Whisk or fork: To mix the glaze until smooth.
- Sharp knife or dental floss: For slicing the rolls cleanly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, and yeast.
- Add the warm milk, melted butter, pumpkin puree, egg, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, kneading until a soft dough forms. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top.
Shaping the Rolls:
- Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Slice the log into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Baking the Rolls:
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each for rising.
- Cover and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and fluffy.
Making the Glaze:
- While the buns are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven.
Tips for Success
Dough Tips:
- Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. A temperature of around 110°F (43°C) is ideal.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten for a fluffy texture.
Shaping Tips:
- For even rolls, use a ruler to measure your dough rectangle and make evenly spaced cuts.
- Use dental floss to slice the log cleanly without squishing the rolls.
Baking Tips:
- Check the rolls at the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking. They should be lightly golden on top.
