Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Delight in the seasonal flavors of Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! These soft, fluffy rolls combine the rich taste of brown butter and pumpkin, making them a perfect treat for fall gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. The addition of spiced cream cheese frosting elevates these cinnamon rolls to a whole new level of indulgence. Whether you are celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a lazy Sunday morning, these rolls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and pumpkin creates a unique taste that is both comforting and delicious.
• Perfect for Fall: These cinnamon rolls capture the essence of autumn with warm spices and pumpkin.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create these delightful rolls.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast, dessert, or a snack; they fit any occasion beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Share them at gatherings, and watch everyone rave about their scrumptiousness!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer makes kneading dough effortless, ensuring a smooth texture. If using a bowl, you can still achieve great results with some elbow grease!
• Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly, which is key for uniform cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

Delightfully soft cinnamon rolls made with pureed pumpkin and fragrant brown butter, crowned with a spiced cream cheese topping—perfect for autumn indulgence!

For the Dough:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (browned)
• 1 cup warm whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree
• 4¾ – 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp kosher salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla essence
• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Begin by warming butter in a pot until it reaches a golden hue. Allow it to cool before using it in your dough.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix warm milk with 2 tablespoons of sugar in a large bowl or stand mixer.
2. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it froth for about 5 minutes.
3. Add remaining sugar, the prepared brown butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, flour, and salt.
4. Knead for 5–6 minutes until the dough is smooth.
5. Leave the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, blend together dark brown sugar, pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice into a smooth paste.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

1. Roll the risen dough into a rectangle measuring roughly 20 by 10 inches.
2. Spread softened butter over the surface.
3. Evenly distribute the filling across the dough.
4. Roll it up tightly from one end to another and slice into 12 individual rolls.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

1. Arrange sliced rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Allow them to rise again while preheating your oven to 350°F.
3. Before baking, pour cream over the rolls for added moistness.
4. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

Whisk together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla essence, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy!

Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, coat them generously with your spiced cream cheese frosting. Enjoy every bite as you savor these seasonal flavors!

How to Serve Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for sharing during festive gatherings or cozy mornings. Their warm, spiced aroma and rich flavors create a delightful experience for any occasion.

For Breakfast

• Pair with fresh fruit: Serve alongside seasonal fruits like apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with coffee: The warm, spiced flavors complement a hot cup of coffee or chai tea.

As a Dessert

• Top with extra icing: Drizzle additional spiced cream cheese frosting on top for an indulgent treat.
• Serve warm: Heat them slightly before serving to enhance the gooey texture and flavor.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Present on a festive platter: Arrange them beautifully on a holiday-themed dish for an eye-catching centerpiece.
• Offer as party favors: Wrap individual rolls in cellophane for guests to take home as sweet reminders of the celebration.

With Ice Cream

• Pair with vanilla ice cream: The creamy coldness of ice cream perfectly balances the warmth of the cinnamon rolls.
• Try with caramel sauce: Drizzling caramel over the top adds extra sweetness and richness.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Achieving the ideal Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your yeast and spices are fresh to achieve optimal rise and flavor.
• Don’t rush the rising: Allow your dough enough time to rise until it doubles in size for fluffy rolls.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even results.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preferences for added warmth.
• Store properly: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory balance to the sweet rolls.
2. Breakfast Sausages: Savory sausages add a hearty touch that pairs well with sweet pastries.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your breakfast spread.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a deliciously creamy side dish.
5. Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate creates a warm beverage pairing that enhances the fall flavors.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This light, nutritious option offers a unique texture that complements the rolls wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making delicious Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, a few common pitfalls can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring Yeast Activation: Failing to let the yeast froth can lead to dense rolls. Always ensure your milk is warm (not hot) and wait for bubbles before mixing.
• Skipping the Rising Time: Rushing through the rising process can result in flat rolls. Allow the dough enough time to double in size for optimal fluffiness.
• Overfilling the Rolls: Using too much filling may cause spills during baking. Spread a thin layer of filling evenly for even cooking and easier slicing.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make the dough tough. Use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
• Baking Without Preheating: Not preheating your oven can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent heat distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place rolls on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each roll in 10-15 second intervals until warmed through; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid; warm each roll for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water to create steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe. Ensure it’s pure pumpkin without added spices or sugars.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed. An internal temperature of 190°F indicates they’re fully baked.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning.

What if my cinnamon rolls aren’t fluffy?

If your rolls are dense, it could be due to insufficient rising time or expired yeast. Always check the yeast’s freshness before starting.

How can I customize the frosting?

Feel free to add flavors like maple syrup or citrus zest to your cream cheese frosting for unique twists that complement the cinnamon rolls.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that captures autumn’s essence with their rich flavors and soft texture. They are versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion where you want something special. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or different spices!