This Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe is the cozy, comforting treat you never knew you needed until now. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls infused with the rich, autumnal flavor of pumpkin and warming spices, all topped with a luscious frosting that marries the boldness of coffee with the sweet, sticky charm of maple syrup. Perfect for chilly mornings or weekend brunches, this recipe brings a festive twist to a classic favorite that will have you reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but they each play a crucial role in making these pumpkin cinnamon rolls irresistible. From the creamy pumpkin puree to the aromatic spices and the uniquely flavorful coffee maple frosting, every element enhances texture, taste, and color for that perfect bite.
- Warm milk (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast gently without killing it, ensuring a fluffy dough.
- Active dry yeast: The magic behind your dough’s rise and airy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness and helps the yeast ferment.
- Unsalted butter, melted and softened: Brings richness to the dough and smoothness to the frosting.
- Pumpkin puree: Offers moisture, vibrant color, and that unmistakable fall flavor.
- Large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the dough’s tenderness.
- All-purpose flour: The structure of your rolls, lending them soft but sturdy texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves: Classic warm spices that make these rolls smell heavenly and taste like autumn on a plate.
- Brown sugar: Deep, caramel notes that create a gooey filling.
- Cream cheese: For a creamy, tangy frosting that complements the sweet dough beautifully.
- Strong brewed coffee: Adds a subtle complexity and rich depth to the frosting.
- Maple syrup: Sweet, natural syrup that gives the frosting its signature flavor twist.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors in the frosting.
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining warm milk and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit until you see a foamy layer form on top—this means your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to help your dough rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and egg until smooth. This mixture is the flavorful foundation for your dough, bringing moisture, sweetness, and richness.
Step 3: Combine Yeast and Pumpkin Mixture
Pour the foamy yeast mixture into your pumpkin mixture and stir thoroughly to marry the flavors and activate the dough’s rising process.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Whisk together your flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg separately. Then gradually add this dry blend to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough begins to form.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, knead your dough for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step develops the gluten, making your rolls soft and elastic. Afterward, place dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—it’s like magic unfolding in your kitchen.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Give the dough a gentle punch to release air, then roll it into a large rectangle on a floured surface. This sets the stage for your scrumptious filling.
Step 7: Add the Filling
Spread softened butter evenly over your dough, then sprinkle a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. This flavor-packed layer promises gooey sweetness with every bite.
Step 8: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough from the longer side into a tight log. Slice it into 12 even rolls—these spirals of pumpkin and spice are about to become your new favorite treat.
Step 9: Second Rise
Place the rolls in a greased pan, cover them, and let rise for another 30 minutes to achieve ultimate fluffiness. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 10: Bake Until Golden
Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes. Watch them transform into golden perfection, filling your kitchen with sweet, spicy aroma.
Step 11: Prepare the Coffee Maple Frosting
While rolls bake, beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then coffee, maple syrup, and vanilla. Keep mixing until your frosting is luxuriously creamy and ready to elevate your rolls.
Step 12: Frost and Serve
Spread the frosting generously over warm cinnamon rolls, letting it melt into every nook and cranny. Get ready for pure bliss in every bite.
How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some toasted pecans or chopped walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that plays beautifully against the soft rolls. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can also amplify the autumn vibes.
Side Dishes
Serve these cinnamon rolls alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea to complement the coffee maple frosting perfectly. Fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, adds a refreshing contrast and balances the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the rolls in a rustic wooden tray or a colorful ceramic dish to make your display irresistibly inviting. For a fun twist, layer rolls and frosting in a trifle dish as an all-in-one dessert showcase that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pumpkin cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, consider refrigeration, but remember to bring them back to room temperature or warm them gently before serving.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy your Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe any time you crave a cozy treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated rolls by microwaving them for 20 to 30 seconds or warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. For an added touch, add a dab of butter before warming for extra moisture.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and adds the same creamy texture and flavor. Just be sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid extra spices and sweetness.
What kind of coffee is best for the frosting?
Use a strong brewed coffee or espresso for the best flavor punch in your frosting. Cold brew can work too if you prefer it less acidic and smoother.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
With a few substitutions like plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and egg replacers, you can make these vegan-friendly. Just note that texture and flavor might vary slightly.
How long does it take for the dough to rise?
The first rise typically takes about 1 hour in a warm, draft-free place until the dough doubles in size. The second rise for the shaped rolls takes about 30 minutes to 45 minutes, ensuring they’re light and fluffy when baked.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes! After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature and complete its rise before shaping and baking the next day.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, fall-inspired homemade treat, this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe is your perfect go-to. It’s comforting, flavorful, and guaranteed to fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that will make any morning feel special. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it might just become your all-time favorite seasonal indulgence.
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Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Maple Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 30m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 1h 30m
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these soft and flavorful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls topped with a rich Coffee Maple Frosting. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, these rolls combine the warmth of pumpkin with a sweet, creamy frosting enhanced by coffee and maple syrup. Ideal for fall mornings or holiday brunches, this recipe offers a cozy twist on classic cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
For the Coffee Maple Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and egg. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Yeast and Pumpkin Mixtures: Add the foamy yeast mixture to the pumpkin mixture and stir thoroughly until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Roll Out Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Prepare Filling and Spread: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves; sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Shape Rolls: Tightly roll the dough from the long edge into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices. Place the rolls into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving space between each.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Prepare Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, cooled coffee, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Finish and Serve: Once the rolls are warm from the oven, spread the coffee maple frosting over them. Serve immediately to enjoy the rolls soft and fresh.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor, or canned pumpkin puree if unavailable.
- Letting the dough rise in a warm place helps achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- You can adjust the amount of coffee in the frosting to your taste for more or less coffee flavor.
- These rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
