Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe

If you are looking to cozy up your mornings with something extra special, you simply must try this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe. It’s a comforting swirl of tender pumpkin-enhanced dough filled with spiced brown sugar, all topped off with a rich, luscious frosting that marries the boldness of coffee with the sweetness of maple syrup. This recipe will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and deliver cinnamon rolls so addictive you’ll find yourself sneaking bites long before breakfast time. Let’s dive into this autumnal delight that feels like a warm hug in every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your pumpkin cinnamon rolls. From the warm spices to the creamy coffee maple frosting, every element adds something unique and delicious.

• Warm milk (3/4 cup): Activates the yeast and helps create a soft, tender dough.
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magic behind the dough’s fluffy rise.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to the dough.
• Unsalted butter, melted and softened (3/4 cup total): Provides richness and moisture for both dough and filling.
• Pumpkin puree (1/2 cup): Infuses a subtle pumpkin flavor and moist texture.
• Large egg (1): Binds and enriches the dough.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups): The base that supports the soft chewiness and structure.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances all the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Cinnamon (3 tablespoons total): One teaspoon in the dough, two tablespoons in the filling for that spicy warmth.
• Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warm spiciness to the dough.
• Brown sugar (1 cup): Caramel-like sweetness in the filling.
• Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Lends an extra little zing.
• Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Deepens the complexity of the spices.
• Cream cheese (4 ounces): Creates the creamy base of our luscious frosting.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• Brewed coffee (2 tablespoons): Infuses just enough espresso flavor to cut the sweetness and add depth.
• Maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Gives that cozy, rich sweetness complementing coffee.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances every other flavor beautifully.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by pouring warm milk into a small bowl and sprinkling the active dry yeast on top. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This is like waking up the yeast, which will help your dough rise beautifully and achieve that soft, pillowy texture.

Step 2: Combine wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This mix adds moisture, sweetness, and the lovely pumpkin flavor that sets these cinnamon rolls apart from the usual.

Step 3: Mix yeast with pumpkin mixture

Pour the foamy yeast mixture into your pumpkin mix and stir until everything is well combined. This step ensures the yeast is evenly distributed and ready to work its magic.

Step 4: Add dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Slowly add this dry blend to the wet ingredients while stirring, until a soft dough forms. The spices in the dough bring those nostalgic scents that make pumpkin cinnamon rolls irresistible.

Step 5: Knead and let rise

Flour your surface and knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Then place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and set it somewhere warm to rise until it doubles in size—about 1 hour. This patient waiting results in that tender, perfect texture we all crave.

Step 6: Shape the dough

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. This will become the canvas for the mouthwatering filling.

Step 7: Add the filling

Spread softened butter evenly over the rectangle of dough. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Sprinkle this spiced sugar mixture generously over the butter, making sure every bite will have that glorious gooey, spicy filling.

Step 8: Roll and cut

Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log shape, then slice into 12 equal pieces. Arranging the rolls snugly in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan helps them bake evenly and puff perfectly.

Step 9: Final rise and preheat

Cover the pan and let your rolls rise again for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This second rise will help create that soft, fluffy interior you’re dreaming of.

Step 10: Bake to golden perfection

Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen now is truly heavenly.

Step 11: Make the coffee maple frosting

While the rolls are in the oven, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Gradually blend in powdered sugar, brewed coffee, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until creamy and luscious. This frosting is the crowning glory of this recipe.

Step 12: Frost and serve warm

Spread the frosting generously over your warm cinnamon rolls so it melts into every nook and cranny. Serve immediately and prepare to be delighted by every bite of these irresistible Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

For a simple yet elegant touch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting to add a lovely crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or a delicate drizzle of extra maple syrup can also elevate the visual appeal and flavor even more.

Side Dishes

Pair these pumpkin cinnamon rolls with a creamy latte, chai tea, or even a glass of fresh apple cider for a cozy autumn breakfast or afternoon treat. A side of fresh fruit or a small bowl of yogurt balances out the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the cinnamon rolls on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper. You can place them in small individual ramekins and frost them right before serving for a delightful grab-and-go style. These rolls also work perfectly as a centerpiece at fall brunches or holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them covered well preserves their softness and keeps the frosting from drying out.

Freezing

These rolls freeze wonderfully before or after baking. To freeze dough, wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. For baked rolls, place them in a freezer-safe container with layers of parchment paper between. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your rolls gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes to bring back that freshly-baked taste and texture. You may wish to add a little extra frosting on top after reheating for that melty, irresistible finish.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra spices and sugar.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Yes, letting the dough rise twice is key to getting soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls. The first rise helps develop the dough’s texture, and the second ensures the rolls expand properly before baking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some substitutions, yes. Swap butter for a vegan-friendly alternative, use plant-based milk for the dough, and replace cream cheese with a vegan version. You’ll want to also use flax or chia eggs to replace the chicken egg.

How strong should the brewed coffee be for the frosting?

Use a strong brewed coffee or espresso for the frosting so the coffee flavor stands out but doesn’t overpower. Two tablespoons of cooled, concentrated coffee works beautifully to balance the sweetness.

Can I prepare the rolls ahead and bake later?

Definitely! You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them after the second rise, covered tightly, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super convenient for fresh cinnamon rolls any time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way the warm spices and pumpkin come together with the bold coffee maple frosting in this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe. It’s the perfect treat to brighten chilly mornings or impress guests at a brunch. Once you try these, they’re bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection—trust me, they’re worth every delicious bite!

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