Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Cozy Brown Butter Bread Twist

Whitaker
Created

Is there anything cozier than the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and browned butter drifting through a warm kitchen on a crisp fall morning? This Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Cozy Brown Butter Bread Twist captures that perfect seasonal magic in every bite. Soft, golden spirals filled with pumpkin puree and spiced sugar are finished with a luscious brown butter glaze that melts beautifully into each swirl. Whether you’re gathering for Thanksgiving breakfast or baking for a Christmas brunch, these rolls combine nostalgic flavor and homemade comfort that transform your kitchen into a sweet autumn haven.

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Cozy Brown Butter Bread Twist

Why This Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Matters

A Cozy Memory Around Pumpkin Spice Aromas

The first time I made this Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, it was one of those cold October weekends when the air smells faintly of wood smoke and the leaves crunch underfoot. My hands were wrapped around a mug of tea as I watched butter slowly melt into a warm, nutty puddle on the stove—brown butter has a way of turning even quiet mornings into something special. When I stirred pumpkin puree into the soft dough, the golden color seemed like autumn itself, ready to rise into fluffy Brown Butter Bread perfection.

That moment, watching the dough rise on the counter, filled our home with the rich aroma of spice and sweetness that instantly reminded me of family gatherings. These rolls soon became our go-to Baked Goods Sweet treat for fall mornings—something we’d bake together before trimming the Thanksgiving centerpiece or putting up the first strands of holiday lights. Over time, they turned into one of those precious Things To Make For Thanksgiving Dinner that carry stories in every bite. The act of preparing them felt like holding on to a piece of warmth and nostalgia—soft dough, melting butter, cinnamon in the air, and laughter drifting through the kitchen.

There’s a quiet sophistication in the taste of Brown Butter Bread—a nutty depth that regular butter just can’t replicate. Browning the butter for these pumpkin spice rolls unlocks a caramel warmth that pairs perfectly with the earthy pumpkin puree and cinnamon sugar swirl. It’s the kind of extra step that turns a simple baked good into something irresistible, and it’s the reason this Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe stands out among homemade holiday treats.

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Fresh pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls glazed with brown butter frosting on a rustic holiday table.

pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls


  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x

Description

These pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls feature a soft, pumpkin-infused dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a nutty brown butter glaze. Perfect for holiday breakfasts and autumn gatherings, they bring cozy flavors and warm aromas to your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale
  • ¾ cup warm milk
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup browned butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup softened unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Instructions

    1. Pour warm milk into a bowl, sprinkle yeast and a pinch of sugar, and let sit until foamy.

    2. Whisk in pumpkin puree, browned butter, egg, remaining sugar, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.

    3. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic.

    4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size.

    5. Roll out dough into a 12×16 inch rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon.

    6. Tightly roll the dough into a log, trim edges, and slice into 12 rolls.

    7. Arrange rolls in a greased pan, cover, and let rise until puffy.

    8. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.

    9. Meanwhile, prepare glaze by whisking cooled browned butter with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

    10. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls and serve immediately.

    • Prep Time: 30 minutes
    • Cook Time: 25 minutes
    • Category: breakfast
    • Method: baking
    • Cuisine: american

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 roll
    • Calories: 320
    • Sugar: 18
    • Sodium: 250
    • Fat: 15
    • Saturated Fat: 8
    • Unsaturated Fat: 6
    • Trans Fat: 0
    • Carbohydrates: 43
    • Fiber: 2
    • Protein: 5
    • Cholesterol: 55

    Keywords: pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls, brown butter bread, autumn baking, holiday breakfast, pumpkin recipes, thanksgiving breakfast, cozy desserts

    The Magic Behind Brown Butter Bread and Holiday Baking

    Making your own dough from scratch might sound daunting compared to popping open a can, but the reward is worth it. The texture—pillowy and tender—simply can’t be matched, and the process itself becomes part of the joy. Kneading, rolling, and shaping the spirals feels almost meditative, especially when the kitchen fills with scents that hint at upcoming celebrations. Whether you’re preparing Pumpkin Christmas Recipes for a cozy December brunch or brainstorming Savory Treat Ideas for guests spending the weekend, these rolls offer the right balance of sweetness and spice.

    Each bite carries the comforting warmth of brown butter mingling with cinnamon, and the glaze glistens over the top like a soft snowfall. This is more than a seasonal treat—it’s a ritual of comfort, the kind of baking that makes chilly mornings feel like a reason to gather around the table once more.

    Ingredients & Tools for the Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

    Gathering Simple Ingredients for Soft, Flavorful Dough

    The heart of this Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is in the ingredients that bring warmth to every swirl — real pumpkin puree, fragrant spices, and nutty brown butter. This combination transforms ordinary Baked Goods Sweet into golden spirals of cozy perfection, ready to melt in your mouth. By using wholesome, pantry-friendly items, you can easily turn your kitchen into a fall-scented bakery.

    IngredientAmountNotes / Purpose
    Whole milk¾ cup, warmHelps activate yeast and creates a tender crumb
    Active dry yeast2 ¼ tsp (1 packet)Allows the dough to rise properly
    Granulated sugar¼ cupFeeds the yeast; adds balanced sweetness
    Pumpkin puree¾ cupAdds flavor, color, and moisture
    Melted brown butter½ cupDeepens flavor and gives the rolls that signature Brown Butter Bread aroma
    Egg1 largeBinds the dough and enriches texture
    All-purpose flour3 ½ – 4 cupsProvides structure; add gradually
    Pumpkin pie spice2 tspThe essence of fall – warm spice in every bite
    Salt½ tspBalances sweetness and enhances flavor

    Filling:
    ½ cup softened unsalted butter
    ¾ cup brown sugar
    1 tbsp cinnamon
    2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

    Brown Butter Glaze:
    ¼ cup browned butter
    1 ½ cups powdered sugar
    2–3 tbsp milk or cream
    ½ tsp vanilla extract

    The balance of warm butterfat and spice is what elevates this from a typical sweet roll into a show-stopping Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Cozy Brown Butter Bread Twist. Using brown butter in both the dough and glaze ensures those toasty, nutty notes carry through from the first bite to the last crumb.

    Tip: Choose pure pumpkin puree — not pumpkin pie filling — for better control of sweetness and spice. The natural orange hue will make your rolls glow beautifully on the brunch table.

    Kitchen Tools and Setup for Smooth Baking

    Great results often come from being well-prepared. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring your Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe to life with ease.

    • Stand mixer with dough hook (or large bowl and sturdy spoon for hand mixing)
    • Rolling pin
    • Dough scraper or sharp knife for neat edges
    • Measuring cups and spoons
    • Mixing bowls in various sizes
    • 9×13-inch baking dish or round cake pan for baking
    • Parchment paper and pastry brush for easy cleanup and butter spreading

    Quick Prep Tips:

    1. Preheat smartly: Warm your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking to ensure consistent heat.
    2. Grease thoroughly: Lightly coat your dish with butter or nonstick spray to keep the rolls soft and prevent sticking.
    3. Soften butter ahead: Set your butter out about 30 minutes before starting to ensure easy mixing.
    4. Create a cozy rise spot: Let the dough rise in a warm corner of the kitchen away from drafts for maximum fluff.

    It’s the kind of easy setup that even first-time bakers will enjoy, especially when preparing Things To Make For Thanksgiving Dinner or festive weekend gatherings. Once your tools are ready and your ingredients are measured, you’re all set to shape, fill, and bake your very own Brown Butter Bread masterpiece.

    Step-by-Step Method to Make Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Glaze

    Preparing the Soft Pumpkin Dough and Filling

    To begin this Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, activate the yeast by mixing warm milk and a touch of sugar, letting it rest until foamy. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, melted brown butter, egg, remaining sugar, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Slowly add flour, mixing until the dough forms. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic — the defining texture of any perfect Baked Goods Sweet.

    Place the dough in a buttered bowl, cover, and let rise for about 60–90 minutes until doubled in size. Roll the dough into a rectangle, spread the butter, sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon-pumpkin spice blend, then roll tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls and arrange in a greased dish. Let them rise again until puffy — your kitchen will fill with cozy anticipation of Brown Butter Bread perfection.

    Baking, Frosting, and Serving Your Autumn Treat

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25–28 minutes, until golden and just set. Cool for 10 minutes. While baking, prepare the glaze by browning butter, then whisking it with powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Drizzle the warm glaze over the rolls so it seeps into each swirl, finishing this Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Cozy Brown Butter Bread Twist with irresistible shine and depth.

    Optional flavor ideas:

    • Maple Brown Butter Glaze: Replace vanilla with pure maple syrup.
    • Pecan Topping: Add toasted chopped pecans before glazing for texture.
    • Cream Cheese Version: Whip softened cream cheese into the glaze for tangy sweetness.

    Pair these rolls with a spiced latte or cozy coffee for a comforting start to your day. They fit seamlessly into Things To Make For Thanksgiving Dinner and Pumpkin Christmas Recipes alike, marking a warm-hearted tradition for every season.

    FAQ

    Can I make the Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe ahead of time?

    Absolutely! Prepare the rolls through slicing and arranging, then refrigerate overnight. Let them rest at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking. This make-ahead option keeps every swirl tender and full of Brown Butter Bread aroma the next morning.

    What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?

    Mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash puree work beautifully, preserving that Baked Goods Sweet softness and warmth while offering subtle variations in flavor.

    How do I keep cinnamon rolls soft after baking?

    Cover the pan lightly with foil after cooling and store at room temperature for two days. Reheat before serving. For Things To Make For Thanksgiving Dinner prep-ahead, refrigerate and warm before glazing to restore that fresh-baked tenderness.

    Can I make these rolls gluten-free or dairy-free?

    Yes. Use a gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum and plant-based butter and milk. The flavor remains rich and nutty, letting everyone enjoy Brown Butter Bread–style treats without compromise.

    Is brown butter necessary for flavor?

    Technically not, but brown butter is the secret that transforms this Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Cozy Brown Butter Bread Twist into something unforgettable. Its caramelized depth sets these rolls apart from ordinary Baked Goods Sweet versions.

    Conclusion

    This Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Cozy Brown Butter Bread Twist brings together the spirit of home, the comfort of spice, and the joy of simple baking. Every swirl and drizzle mirrors the warmth of gatherings and the nostalgia of holiday mornings filled with Brown Butter Bread aroma and laughter.

    Perfect for Things To Make For Thanksgiving Dinner or Christmas brunch, these rolls symbolize more than dessert — they are an invitation to slow down and savor the season. When the first autumn chill arrives and that craving for Pumpkin Christmas Recipes hits, this recipe will remind you why happiness often begins in the kitchen — baked, glazed, and shared with love, one golden, spiced roll at a time.

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