Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you are searching for a cozy and irresistible treat to brighten your breakfast table, this Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a true fall treasure. These rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy, enriched with the velvety sweetness of pumpkin purée and the warm embrace of cinnamon and pumpkin spice. The addition of warm cream poured over the rolls before baking keeps them perfectly moist and tender, while the luscious cream cheese frosting on top guarantees an unforgettable melt-in-your-mouth moment. Whether it’s a special holiday morning or a chilly autumn weekend, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls will fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and your heart with comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, every ingredient plays a pivotal role, combining simplicity and flavor that transform basic pantry staples into an extraordinary homemade delight. From the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the dough to the fragrant spices that bring pumpkin to life, each component is essential.

• Buttermilk (240 ml): Lukewarm to activate the yeast and keep the dough soft and tender.
• Instant dry yeast (7 g): Gives the dough the lift needed for fluffy rolls.
• Honey (80 g): Adds sweetness and enhances browning without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness to the dough.
• Pumpkin purée (120 g): Not pumpkin pie filling; adds moisture, color, and subtle earthiness.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Infuses the dough with classic warm spice.
• Pumpkin pie spice (½ tsp): Complements pumpkin with a blend of nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
• Ground nutmeg (¼ tsp): Adds a gentle nutty warmth.
• All-purpose flour (500 g): The backbone of the dough; extra flour helps adjust dough stickiness.
• Unsalted butter (113 g): Softened and added gradually for richness and tender crumb.
• Brown sugar (135 g): Provides caramel notes in the pumpkin cinnamon filling.
• Heavy cream (120 ml): Warmed to pour over the rolls, ensuring a pillowy texture.
• Cream cheese (113 g): Softened for the frosting, adding tangy sweetness.
• Powdered sugar (180 g): Sweetens and smooths the frosting beautifully.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors seamlessly.
• Pinch of salt: Keeps frosting balanced.
• Heavy cream or milk (1-2 tbsp): Adjusts frosting consistency.

How to Make Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Dough

Start by combining the lukewarm buttermilk, instant dry yeast, honey, eggs, pumpkin purée, and aromatic spices in a large bowl. Mixing these wet ingredients first allows the yeast to bloom gently, ensuring a soft rise. Next, add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring to form a shaggy dough. Knead this with care for about four minutes until the flour is incorporated, then gradually add the softened butter in small amounts. Continue kneading 6 to 8 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If it feels too wet, add extra flour little by little to reach the right texture.

Step 2: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it tightly with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size. This usually takes around 60 to 90 minutes. This step is crucial because it lets the yeast develop flavor along with a delicate, airy texture.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Cinnamon Filling

While the dough rises, whip together the softened butter, packed brown sugar, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and pumpkin purée into a smooth, spreadable paste. This filling is where the magic happens — every bite will bring a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and that unmistakable pumpkin warmth.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 14 by 18 inches, about half to three-quarters of an inch thick. Spread the pumpkin cinnamon filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent filling leakage. Then, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the edge to seal it. Slice the log into 12 even rolls approximately 1½ to 2 inches thick and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover again and let rise for another 45 to 60 minutes until puffy and soft.

Step 5: Bake with a Cream Pour-over

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm the heavy cream slightly and pour it uniformly over the risen rolls, which keeps the interior tender and moist. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the rolls turn a lovely golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 190–195°F. If the tops brown too quickly, tent loosely with foil to avoid burning.

Step 6: Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, prepare the creamy frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and supple. Slowly add sifted powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, beating well after each addition. If needed, thin the frosting with one to two tablespoons of heavy cream or milk until it spreads easily. Dollop or generously spread the frosting over warm rolls for that cooling contrast that will make this Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe absolutely unforgettable.

How to Serve Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a few sprinklings of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the cream cheese frosting can add a delightful crunch and enhance the autumnal vibe. You might also dust a tiny pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice over the frosting for a pretty, flavorful finish.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea, rich coffee, or creamy hot chocolate to complement the warm pumpkin and cinnamon notes. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples also balances the richness and adds a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming gathering or brunch, arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden platter lined with a colorful fall-themed cloth. You could even drizzle extra melted white chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an indulgent flair. Wrapping individual rolls in parchment or tying with twine makes a wonderful gift or take-away treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your batch of these pumpkin cinnamon rolls, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep them covered well to retain their softness and moisture. If kept longer, refrigeration is recommended to prevent spoilage, though this may slightly dry them out.

Freezing

This Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe also freezes beautifully. Before the final rise, you can wrap the assembled and cut rolls tightly and freeze for up to two months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and let them rise before baking. Alternatively, freeze fully baked and cooled rolls in an airtight container, then thaw and reheat gently when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in a microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil to maintain moisture. Add a little extra drizzle of cream cheese frosting or a pat of butter when reheating to revive that fresh-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While regular milk can work in a pinch, buttermilk is preferred as it reacts with the yeast and flour to create a lighter, softer dough with a subtle tang that complements the pumpkin and spices beautifully.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can make your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe benefits from those warm spices, but feel free to adjust based on your pantry or taste.

How can I prevent the rolls from drying out?

The warm cream poured over before baking keeps the rolls moist and tender. Also, covering the rolls during rising and storing leftovers properly helps maintain their cozy texture.

Is it okay to use canned pumpkin purée?

Absolutely! Just ensure it is pure pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains sugars and spices that will change the dough’s flavor and texture.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Swapping out ingredients like eggs, butter, and cream for plant-based alternatives can work but will affect texture and flavor. For best results, follow a dedicated vegan cinnamon roll recipe inspired by this one’s spices and pumpkin filling.

Final Thoughts

Every bite of this Buttermilk Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe feels like a warm embrace on a crisp fall morning. The combination of tender pumpkin-infused dough, spiced filling, and luscious cream cheese frosting is truly special and perfect for making memories with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to dive in and bring a little seasonal magic to your kitchen—once you try these, they’ll quickly become a beloved favorite for years to come.