Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (for the dough)
- For the filling: 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- For the frosting: 4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Activate the Yeast – In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to make the dough rise.
- Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, melted butter, and egg. Once combined, pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir gently.
- Step 3: Form the Dough – Gradually add the flour, salt, and pumpkin pie spice to the wet mixture. Use a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook to mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Step 4: First Rise – Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Step 5: Roll and Fill – Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Step 6: Shape and Second Rise – Tightly roll the dough into a log and cut it into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
- Step 7: Baking – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes until they are lightly golden brown on top. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
- Step 8: Frosting – While the rolls are slightly cooling, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until smooth. Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls so it seeps into the centers.
- Cook Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian