Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2/3 cup milk; 2 tsp active dry yeast (a little less than 1 packet); 3 tbsp butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 1/3 cup pumpkin puree, at room temperature; 2 & 2/3 cup all purpose flour; 2 tbsp granulated sugar, divided; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp cinnamon; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/3 cup heavy cream; 4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature; 3 tbsp maple syrup; 4 tbsp butter, at room temperature; 1/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 90 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping fall treat to cozy up your kitchen, look no further than this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These rolls bring together the soft, pillowy dough infused with seasonal pumpkin flavor, a warm cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a luscious maple cream cheese frosting that’s simply addictive. Whether it’s for a weekend breakfast or a festive gathering, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls will fill your home with that magical spicy-sweet aroma and your heart with pure joy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a cherished staple in your baking rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board on a white marbled surface, featuring a long rolled dough log on the left side with a smooth yellow exterior. To the right of the log, there are four neatly sliced dough spirals arranged vertically. Each spiral has layers of light yellow dough and a darker brown cinnamon-like filling creating clear concentric circles. A thin white string lies loosely beside the dough log. The board has some text branding on its upper right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is where the magic begins, and each one here plays a crucial role. From the creamy pumpkin puree adding moisture and that beautiful orange hue, to the pumpkin pie spice that adds warmth and spice, every item is simple but essential.

2/3 cup milk: Warm milk activates the yeast and makes the dough soft and tender.
2 tsp active dry yeast: This little powerhouse is what gives the dough its airy, fluffy lift.
3 tbsp butter melted: Adds richness and helps give tender, soft rolls with a slight golden crust.
1 tsp vanilla: Heightens the sweetness and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
1 large egg at room temperature: Binds the dough and contributes to a lovely rich texture.
1/3 cup pumpkin puree at room temperature: Loads the dough with tender moisture and that unmistakable autumn charm.
2 & 2/3 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the rolls, balancing tenderness and chew.
2 tbsp granulated sugar divided: Sweetens gently and helps feed the yeast for rising.
2 tbsp brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and moistness to the dough and the filling.
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: The secret blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that screams fall.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
1/4 cup butter softened (filling): Creates a luscious, spreadable layer that melts in your mouth.
1/2 cup brown sugar (filling): Gives the filling a rich, gooey sweetness.
1 tbsp cinnamon (filling): Brings warming spice straight into the center of every roll.
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (filling): Amplifies that spiced pumpkin magic in the filling.
1/3 cup heavy cream (before baking): Poured over the rolls to keep them moist and add a bit of decadence.
4 oz cream cheese (frosting): Creates a tangy, creamy base for the frosting’s luxurious finish.
3 tbsp maple syrup (frosting): Adds natural sweetness with rich, woodsy undertones.
4 tbsp butter (frosting): Makes the frosting ultra-smooth and rich.
1/3 cup powdered sugar (frosting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
1 tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract (frosting): Deepens the warm vanilla flavor for that extra cozy touch.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Start by warming your milk until it’s about 105°F to 110°F — warm enough to activate the yeast but not too hot to kill it. Add a spoonful of granulated sugar, sprinkle the yeast over the surface, stir gently, and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. You’ll soon see the mixture turn foamy, which means your yeast is awake and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While the yeast blooms, whisk together the flour, the remaining granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures that every bite of dough is infused with that signature pumpkin pie warmth and perfectly balanced sweetness.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add melted butter, vanilla, egg, and pumpkin puree to the yeast mixture, then mix using a paddle attachment to form a wet batter. This blend provides the dough with richness and moisture, making your cinnamon rolls irresistibly soft.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Switch to the hook attachment and gradually add in the flour mixture, kneading the dough for 7 to 10 minutes until it pulls away from the sides but still looks slightly moist. This step develops the gluten that gives your rolls their perfect chew and fluff.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and pop it into a greased bowl. Cover with a damp towel and place it somewhere warm to rise for about 30 minutes until it doubles in size. This gentle rise is what creates those soft, pillowy layers we all crave.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until fully mixed. This luscious filling will become the warm, gooey swirl that makes each bite pure joy.

Step 7: Roll and Fill the Dough

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 14.5 by 12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on top, and gently press it into the dough. Starting at the long edge, roll the dough tightly and pinch the edges closed. Trim the ends and slice the roll into nine even pieces with floss or a sharp knife.

Step 8: Second Rise and Bake

Arrange the rolls in a buttered 8×8 inch pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let them rise for 15 to 20 minutes until doubled. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Just before baking, pour heavy cream over the rolls for extra moistness. Bake for 22 to 28 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

Step 9: Make the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, whisk together cream cheese, butter, maple syrup, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean paste until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness with more powdered sugar or a splash of milk to achieve that perfect spreading consistency.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

After letting the rolls cool for about 5 minutes, slather the maple cream cheese frosting generously on top. The frosting melts slightly, sinking into every nook and cranny, creating a sweet and tangy finish that makes these pumpkin cinnamon rolls utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A close-up view of four cinnamon rolls in a metal baking pan on a white marbled surface, with the front right roll missing revealing its soft, fluffy, light golden inner layer and sticky syrupy bits underneath; each roll is topped with a thick, creamy, off-white frosting with tiny visible specks and a smooth yet swirled texture covering the tops in generous layers; the rolls show a slightly caramelized edge where they touch the pan and each other, with visible dark cinnamon swirls inside the dough; the pan has some syrup residue and the overall image focuses tightly on the textures and layers of the rolls photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

If you want to take presentation to the next level, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the frosting to add a delightful crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few pumpkin seeds can also bring an extra pop of autumn charm.

Side Dishes

Serve these warm, spicy rolls alongside a steaming cup of chai tea, spiced latte, or your favorite coffee for a perfect fall morning treat. A fresh fruit salad with apples, pears, or cranberries adds a bright contrast and balances the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday brunches or special occasions, serve your pumpkin cinnamon rolls in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, cozy vibe. You can also drizzle extra maple syrup over the frosting right before serving to elevate that pumpkin maple flavor to new heights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents drying out. When ready to enjoy, simply warm them in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds to revive that just-baked softness.

Freezing

These pumpkin cinnamon rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you crave a treat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, place the rolls on a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture locked in. Heat in short bursts of 20 to 30 seconds until warm. Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes, covered loosely with foil.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for the dough?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and ensures consistent moisture and flavor in the dough. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling which contains added spices and sugar.

How do I know if my yeast is still good?

If your yeast foams and bubbles after mixing with warm milk and sugar within 5 to 10 minutes, it’s active and good to use. If it remains flat and unchanged, it’s best to get fresh yeast to guarantee a proper rise.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With a few substitutions like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and cream cheese alternatives, you can definitely make this pumpkin cinnamon rolls recipe vegan-friendly. Yeast and pumpkin puree are naturally vegan, so it’s all about switching the dairy and egg.

What’s the best way to slice the rolls evenly?

Using unflavored dental floss works like a charm for clean, even slices without squishing the dough. Simply stretch the floss tightly and slice gently through the roll for neat, uniform pieces.

Can I prepare the rolls the night before baking?

Yes! After assembling and slicing the rolls, cover and refrigerate them overnight. The slow rise in the fridge enhances flavor and texture. Just let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking the next day.

Final Thoughts

I’m so thrilled to share this Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with you because it truly captures the heart of fall in every bite. Soft, spiced, and sweet with that irresistible maple frosting, this recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather these simple ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with the warmest, coziest vibes imaginable. Happy baking!