Name: Decadent Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for Fall Mornings
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 3 to 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with a gluten-free blend.); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Ensure it is 100% pure pumpkin.); ½ cup Brown Butter (Melt unsalted butter until golden brown.); 2 ¼ teaspoons Yeast (Fresh yeast is ideal; active dry yeast works as well.); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.); ⅓ cup Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and caramel notes.); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (Consider substituting with pumpkin pie spice.); ½ cup Heavy Cream (Coffee creamer can be used as a substitute.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Can be swapped with ricotta or mascarpone.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and thickens the icing.)

As the first hints of fall breezes in, I can’t help but reminisce about the annual baking challenge with my family. This year’s winner? The mouthwatering Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls that have us drooling all morning long. With the delightful richness of nutty brown butter and the warm embrace of pumpkin, these rolls elevate any breakfast or brunch into a cozy celebration. Not only are they fluffy and soft, but they’re also a freezer-friendly option, so you can enjoy a taste of autumn any day of the week. Do you want to discover the magic of these seasonal treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these rolls a must-try?

Irresistibly Fluffy: The soft, pillowy texture makes each bite feel like a warm hug, perfect for those crisp fall mornings.

Nutty Flavor Boost: The brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates these rolls far beyond your usual cinnamon rolls.

Gooey Delight: Topped with a velvety cream cheese icing, each roll delivers a deliciously gooey experience that you won’t forget.

Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast or brunch, these Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a show-stopper at any gathering, just like my Cinnamon Roll Savor.

Easy to Freeze: Make a batch and freeze them for an easy, delightful indulgence any day of the week!

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

Discover the essential ingredients needed to create these delightful rolls!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and flavor; ensure it is 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Brown Butter – Enhances nutty flavor; make by melting unsalted butter until golden brown, or use regular butter for a milder taste.
Yeast – The leavening agent that creates fluffiness; fresh yeast is ideal, but active dry yeast works as well.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.

For the Filling

Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramel notes to the filling.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; consider substituting with pumpkin pie spice for a twist.

For Extra Moistness

Heavy Cream – Added before baking for extra moistness; coffee creamer can be used as a substitute if needed.

For the Icing

Cream Cheese – A creamy base for the icing; can be swapped with ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese icing, ensuring a delightful finish.

Now you have all the ingredients you’ll need to whip up these delicious Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls that will make your fall mornings feel extra special!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of warm milk with 2 ¼ teaspoons of yeast and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Gently stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and ½ cup of cooled brown butter. Gradually add 3 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it turns smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back when gently pressed. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, which should take approximately 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, in a medium bowl, mix together ⅓ cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and ½ cup of softened brown butter until well blended. This filling will create a sweet and spice-filled flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin essence in your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon brown sugar filling evenly over the surface of the dough. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, and then slice it into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise
Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, arranging them close together for a snug fit. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and allow the rolls to rise again for about 30 to 45 minutes until they are puffy and have expanded. This second rise is key to achieving fluffy Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 6: Preheat & Bake
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After the second rise, carefully pour about ½ cup of heavy cream over the rolls to keep them moist during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the edges are set.

Step 7: Make the Icing
In a medium bowl, beat together 4 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. This icing will add a luscious finishing touch to your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 8: Serve
Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls. The gooey texture and sweet icing create a delightful experience. Serve these enticing rolls fresh, ideally with a warm cup of coffee or cider to enhance your cozy fall mornings.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in autumn’s flavors without the last-minute stress! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix and knead the dough, then partition it into your baking dish with the filling, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This will enhance the flavors while keeping the rolls fresh. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before pouring heavy cream over the rolls and baking as instructed. You’ll enjoy the same delightful, gooey texture just as if they were freshly made!

Expert Tips for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Activate Yeast Correctly: Ensure your milk is warm (about 110°F) to activate the yeast effectively without killing it. Hot milk can stop yeast from working.
Heavy Cream Magic: Pour heavy cream just before baking; it ensures the rolls stay moist and tender. Don’t skip this step!
Avoid Dry Rolls: Limit the downtime for the assembled rolls before baking—long refrigeration can dry them out.
Serve Freshly Baked: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the microwave for a soft and gooey texture!
Flavor Boost Ideas: For added warmth, consider mixing in nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a unique twist on these Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls to suit your taste buds!

Nutty Spices: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth. These spices complement the pumpkin beautifully, taking flavors to the next level.
Icing Options: Swap out the cream cheese icing for a maple glaze or even a vanilla bean frosting for a sweet twist. Your rolls will sing with seasonal flavor!
Chopped Nuts: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for added crunch and texture. They bring a delightful contrast to the softness of the rolls.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute regular butter with vegan butter and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the icing, making this recipe perfect for those avoiding dairy.
Flavor Infusions: Try stirring in some chocolate chips or a caramel swirl to the filling for a sweet surprise in every bite. Who can resist a gooey chocolate ribbon?
Extra Pumpkin: Love pumpkin? For an intensified flavor, add an additional ½ cup of pumpkin puree to the dough or filling. It’s pumpkin spice season after all!
Cinnamon Enhance: Substitute regular cinnamon with an aromatic pumpkin pie spice blend to celebrate fall flavors in a whole new way!
Savory Twist: For a fun savory version, swap the cream cheese icing for a herb-infused butter spread. It pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the pumpkin!

These variations not only keep things interesting but allow you to make these rolls your own and keep the whole family excited, just like I do with my Cheesy Chicken Hashbrown. Enjoy the journey of flavor exploration!

Storage Tips for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and ready to enjoy.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, place the rolls in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze assembled and baked rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, and enjoy the gooey perfection of your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

What to Serve with Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

There’s nothing quite like enjoying fragrant, warm rolls straight from the oven that transport you to cozy autumn mornings.

Hot Coffee: The rich flavors of brown butter and pumpkin pair perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee, enhancing the rolls’ warmth.
Spiced Apple Cider: A glass of this delightful beverage adds a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates your breakfast experience.
Maple-Glazed Bacon: The salty, sweet notes of crispy bacon beautifully complement the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls, creating a wonderful flavor balance.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits like apples and pears brings brightness and a refreshing crunch to your table.
Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey offers a tangy creaminess that cuts through the sweetness of the rolls.
Nutty Granola: The crunchiness and hearty texture of granola add a delightful contrast to the soft cinnamon rolls, making each bite a joy.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace all things pumpkin with this creamy, spiced drink, creating a cozy fall theme at your breakfast table.
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: For a fun twist, serve some extra frosting on the side for dipping, satisfying cravings with rich creaminess.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Pair these indulgent rolls with a side of fluffy doughnuts for a double dose of sweet comfort.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert treat, warm up your rolls and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—a perfect combo of hot and cold!

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
When choosing pumpkin puree, ensure it’s labeled as 100% pure pumpkin. Avoid any that say “pumpkin pie filling,” as these contain added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. If you can, buy canned pumpkin from reputable brands to ensure quality. Fresh pumpkin can also work; just make sure to roast and puree it properly.

How should I store leftover Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
To store your delicious rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer freshness, move them to the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 3-4 days. Be sure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze these rolls for up to 3 months. To do so, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven until warm and gooey.

What if my dough doesn’t rise as expected?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Always check the expiration date on your yeast, and make sure your milk is warm but not hot (around 110°F), as too hot can kill the yeast. If that happens, you can allow the dough to rest in a warmer area, or give it more time if you think it needs it.

Are there any dietary considerations with these rolls?
Yes! These Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls contain gluten and dairy products. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, if you or your guests have dairy allergies, use a dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternative for the icing. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if serving to guests.