Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Delight in the rich flavors of Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect treat for autumn gatherings or cozy weekends at home. These rolls are fluffy, filled with warm spices, and topped with a creamy frosting that makes them irresistible. The unique combination of pumpkin and brown butter adds depth and richness, making them a standout choice for any occasion—from holiday breakfasts to dessert gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flavors: Enjoy the comforting taste of pumpkin combined with warm spices that evoke the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful rolls without any hassle.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even as a sweet snack throughout the day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cinnamon rolls are sure to impress family and friends, making them a great addition to any gathering.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Essential for kneading dough evenly and efficiently.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness when rolling out the dough for uniform cinnamon rolls.
• Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking and browning of your 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!

Dough Ingredients

• ⅔ cup unsalted butter (browned)
• 1 cup warm whole milk
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree
• 4½ – 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp kosher salt

Filling Ingredients

• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

Frosting Ingredients

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ⅓ 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 the butter in a pot until it reaches a golden hue. Allow it to cool slightly before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk with 2 tablespoons of sugar and the yeast. Let it sit until frothy. Incorporate the remaining sugar, prepared brown butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, flour, and salt into the mixture. Knead the dough for 5-6 minutes until smooth. Let it 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 until you have a smooth paste.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 20 by 10 inches. Spread softened butter over the dough followed by an even layer of filling. Roll tightly from one end to another and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

Arrange sliced rolls in a greased baking pan (9×13 inches). Allow them to rise again while preheating your oven to 350°F. Once ready, bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

Whisk together softened cream cheese and remaining butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla essence and pumpkin pie spice; mix until smooth.

Step 7: Ice and Serve

Coat warm cinnamon rolls generously with icing before serving. Enjoy these delightful treats fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These delightful Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the cozy autumn months. With their rich flavors and soft texture, they can be enjoyed in various ways.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee or Espresso – The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the rolls.
• Spiced Chai Tea – A warm chai adds a fragrant touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Hot Chocolate – For a sweet treat, serve these rolls alongside a mug of creamy hot chocolate.

As a Breakfast Treat

• With Fresh Fruit – Add some sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfait – Layer your cinnamon roll with yogurt and berries for a balanced breakfast.

For Dessert

• A La Mode – Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• With Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream enhances their sweetness and adds creaminess.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Yeast – Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness in the rolls.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough – Knead just until smooth; over-kneading can lead to dense rolls.
• Check Temperature – Make sure your milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
• Allow Proper Rising Time – Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size for light and fluffy rolls.
• Adjust Baking Time as Needed – Ovens vary; keep an eye on your rolls to prevent overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch provides a great contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness nicely.
3. Autumn Salad – A fresh salad with nuts, cranberries, and vinaigrette complements these rolls well.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring earthy flavors that enhance the meal’s overall profile.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers variety and richness alongside the sweet rolls.
6. Pumpkin Soup – Keep the pumpkin theme going with a comforting bowl of creamy pumpkin soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Not browning the butter properly: Ensure that the butter reaches a golden color for that nutty flavor. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
• Using cold ingredients: Room temperature ingredients help in creating a better dough. Always allow your milk and eggs to warm up before mixing.
• Ignoring the rising time: Giving your dough enough time to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; it can take about 1 hour.
• Overloading on flour: Adding too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Start with less and gradually add until the dough is just right.
• Skipping the icing: The spiced cream cheese topping is what makes these rolls special. Don’t skip it; prepare it while the rolls bake!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
• You can place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with date for easy tracking of freshness.

Reheating Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat rolls for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 20-30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a roll in a pan over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, ensuring even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequent queries regarding Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use canned pumpkin?

Yes, using canned pumpkin puree adds convenience and maintains flavor. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without additives.

How can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and dairy-free cream cheese.

What can I do with leftover icing?

Leftover icing can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Use it on pancakes or other baked goods!

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should ideally double in size. A gentle poke should leave an indentation but not collapse entirely.

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not only a treat for your taste buds but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize them by adding nuts or different spices. Try this recipe, and savor every bite of autumn’s flavors!