floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking Recipe
If you’re dreaming of the perfect cozy treat that combines the comforting warmth of pumpkin spice with the sweet, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls are exactly what you need. Fluffy, tender, and generously swirled with a luscious brown sugar cinnamon filling, they are topped with an irresistible maple vanilla cream cheese icing that adds a velvety finish. One trick that truly makes preparing these rolls a breeze is using floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking—it’s a simple yet game-changing tip to get perfect, clean slices without squishing the dough. Whether you’re baking for a delightful breakfast or an indulgent dessert, these rolls bring the essence of fall right to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, keeping the flavors rich and the texture just right. From the earthy pumpkin puree to the fragrant pumpkin pie spice and the sweet maple syrup, every component adds depth and warmth, making these cinnamon rolls unforgettable.
- Whole milk (3/4 cup, warmed to 110°F): Activates the yeast and helps create a soft, tender dough.
- Instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The powerhouse behind the dough’s rise and fluffiness.
- Pumpkin puree (1/2 cup): Adds moisture, a delicate sweetness, and that perfect pumpkin flavor without overpowering the rolls.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps yeast activation.
- Large egg (1, room temperature): Adds richness and binds the dough together.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted for dough, 1/3 cup softened for filling, 2 tablespoons softened for icing): Delivers buttery flavor and moisture throughout.
- Bread flour (4 cups, plus more as needed): Gives structure for those tender yet sturdy rolls.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
- Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): The warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that gives the rolls their autumnal magic.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed for filling): Creates the caramelized, gooey cinnamon swirl you’ll love.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons for filling): Classic spice that makes everything better.
- Ground nutmeg, ginger, cloves (varied small amounts for filling): These deepen the spice profile for a complex, cozy flavor.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Makes the icing creamy and tangy, perfect for complementing the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup for icing): Gives the icing that dreamy, smooth sweetness.
- Pure maple syrup (2 tablespoons for icing): Adds a rich, natural sweetness that elevates the cream cheese icing.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for icing): Rounds out the flavor with warm, floral notes.
- Pinch of salt (for icing): Balances the sweetness beautifully.
How to Make floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking
Step 1: Activate the yeast and combine dough ingredients
Start by warming your milk to just above body temperature—this cozy warmth wakes up the yeast without killing it. Stir in a teaspoon of sugar and the yeast, letting it sit until it’s wonderfully foamy in about five minutes. Meanwhile, mix pumpkin puree, remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in your mixer bowl. When your yeast is ready, add it to the mix and blend until combined.
Step 2: Knead the dough
Add your bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a dough hook attachment if you have one. Keep an eye on the dough’s texture; it should become smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky. This kneading develops gluten, providing that ideal chewy yet fluffy structure.
Step 3: First rise
Place your dough into a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and find a warm spot to let it rise. After about an hour, your dough should have doubled in size, light and airy, ready for the exciting part—rolling and filling!
Step 4: Roll out the dough and add filling
Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×16 inches. This generous size ensures plenty of layers in each roll. Spread your softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the luscious brown sugar and warm spice filling over the top. This gooey mixture is where the cinnamon magic happens.
Step 5: Roll up and slice using floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Here’s the shining moment for floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking: use unflavored dental floss to slice your log into 12 perfectly even rolls. This method is gentle and precise, preventing squished edges and keeping those beautiful swirls intact.
Step 6: Second rise in your 9×13 inch pan
Arrange your rolls snugly into a greased 9×13 inch pan. Cover loosely and let them rise again until puffy, about 40 to 50 minutes. This step ensures light, fluffy spirals after baking.
Step 7: Bake to golden perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 22 to 25 minutes until golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen with irresistible warmth, hinting at the deliciousness awaiting you.
Step 8: Make the maple vanilla cream cheese icing
While the rolls are baking, whisk together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, beating until creamy and luscious. This icing is what truly sets these rolls apart.
Step 9: Ice and serve
Spread the maple vanilla cream cheese icing generously over warm rolls so it melts into every nook and cranny. Serve immediately for maximum gooey delight!
How to Serve floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the icing adds a pleasant crunch and extra flavor dimension. For an elegant touch, a few fresh pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can make presentation pop.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a steaming mug of coffee, chai tea, or apple cider to match their warming spices beautifully. Fresh fruit, especially sliced apples or pears, adds a refreshing contrast. A scoop of vanilla or pumpkin spice yogurt can also provide a creamy, tangy balance that complements the rich rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch, arrange these rolls on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of walnuts, whipped cream, or extra maple syrup so guests can customize their treats. You might even serve them alongside savory dishes like scrambled eggs or bacon to create a perfectly balanced meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be a challenge!), cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Refrigerating can extend freshness to about five days but remember to warm them gently to soften the icing and dough.
Freezing
These pumpkin cinnamon rolls freeze beautifully. For the best results, freeze them baked and cooled, wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn. They can last up to two months this way. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them gently in a 300°F oven to revive their just-baked goodness.
Reheating
To enjoy these rolls at their best, reheat slices in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or pop them in a warm oven briefly until the icing softens and the rolls feel fresh. This gently revives their signature gooeyness without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use regular dental floss instead of floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking?
Yes! Unflavored, unwaxed dental floss works perfectly because it cuts cleanly through the dough without sticking, which preserves the rolls’ shape and swirl pattern.
Is there a substitute for pumpkin puree?
You can try sweet potato puree as a substitute, which offers a similar texture and sweetness while keeping the cozy fall vibes intact.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Gluten-free baking is a bit tricky with cinnamon rolls since the dough needs gluten to rise and stretch properly. However, using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads may give decent results with added xanthan gum. Expect a different texture.
What’s the best way to warm milk for activating yeast?
Warm the milk gently on the stove or in the microwave until it reaches about 110°F. It should feel warm to the touch but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast activity.
Can I prepare these pumpkin cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare through the second rise, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bring them to room temperature before baking the next morning. This is a huge time-saver for busy mornings.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about homemade pumpkin cinnamon rolls, especially when you use neat little hacks like floss for cutting rolls 9×13 inch baking to make the process fun and foolproof. The combination of spiced pumpkin dough, warm cinnamon filling, and the luscious maple vanilla cream cheese icing creates a treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, try these rolls out, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a cozy slice of happiness.
