Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, nothing evokes the spirit of fall quite like freshly baked pumpkin rolls. These delightful treats are not just a dessert; they embody the warmth and comfort of the season, making them a beloved favorite in many households.
Homemade baked goods play a vital role in fall traditions, bringing families together to enjoy the rich flavors and comforting aromas that fill the kitchen. This cinnamon sugar pumpkin roll recipe promises a perfect combination of soft, spiced dough and sweet pumpkin filling, finished with a delectable glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate fall treat, where each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that capture the essence of autumn.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 2 hours
– Servings: 12 rolls
– Difficulty: Medium
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk, warmed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– For the filling:
– 1/2 cup softened butter
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– For the glaze:
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, softened butter, and eggs until well combined.
4. Pour the yeast mixture and the pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
8. Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the dough.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon, and sprinkle this mixture over the buttered dough.
10. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one long side, and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
11. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
12. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
13. Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
14. While the rolls cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
15. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Understanding the Ingredients
– Overview of key ingredients in the dough
– All-purpose flour: Importance and alternatives
– Active dry yeast: Role in leavening and flavor development
– Granulated sugar and brown sugar: Sweetness and moisture differences
– Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg to evoke autumn flavors
– Pumpkin puree: Nutritional benefits and flavor profile
– Breakdown of filling ingredients
– Softened butter: Its function in creating a rich filling
– The balance of spices and sweetness
– Discussion of glaze ingredients
– Powdered sugar and milk: For sweetness and texture
Kneading the Dough
Kneading is a crucial step in making Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Rolls, as it ensures the dough achieves the right elasticity and smoothness. To knead effectively, start by dusting your work surface with a light layer of flour. Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. Repeat this motion for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic. If the dough sticks too much, add more flour gradually; however, be careful not to add too much, as it can make the rolls dense.
First Rise
The first rise is essential for flavor development. During this fermentation process, the yeast consumes sugars and produces carbon dioxide, causing the dough to expand. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size, usually about 1-2 hours. This step not only adds texture but also enriches the flavor of your rolls.
Preparing the Filling
Creating the perfect cinnamon-sugar blend is key to delicious rolls. Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, adjusting the ratio based on your taste preferences. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to enhance the flavor profile. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the spices.
Rolling Out the Dough
When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use a rolling pin and apply even pressure, starting from the center and moving outward. This technique helps maintain a consistent thickness, ensuring uniform cooking. Be mindful of the shape; a rectangular shape will make it easier to roll and fill.
Adding the Filling
To ensure even distribution of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, sprinkle it generously over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch along the edges. Use your hands to gently press the mixture into the dough, preventing spills when you roll it up. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Shaping the Rolls
When shaping the rolls, it’s important to achieve uniformity in size for even baking. Start by rolling the dough tightly from one end to the other, ensuring there are no gaps. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into equal-sized pieces, usually about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This technique ensures that each roll bakes evenly and has a consistent texture.
Second Rise
The second rise is just as important as the first. After shaping the rolls, place them in a greased baking dish and cover them again to rise for about 30-60 minutes. You’ll notice they will expand and puff up. This step allows the dough to relax and develop more flavor, resulting in softer rolls.
Baking the Rolls
Preheating the Oven
Accurate temperature is crucial when baking Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Rolls. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking. An oven thermometer can be a helpful tool to verify that your oven is at the right temperature.
Baking Process
Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden-brown color. To check for doneness, gently tap the top of a roll; it should sound hollow. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C).
Cooling Period
Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before glazing. This cooling period is essential as it helps set the rolls, making them easier to handle and preventing the glaze from melting away.
Creating the Glaze
Mixing the Glaze
To create a delicious glaze, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk; if it’s too thin, sprinkle in more powdered sugar.
Flavor Enhancements
For variations on the basic glaze, consider adding a splash of maple syrup, a hint of almond extract, or even a pinch of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. These enhancements can elevate your rolls and add a unique touch.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation Ideas
For gatherings, arrange the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Rolls on a decorative platter, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or chopped nuts. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites guests to indulge.
Pairing Suggestions
These rolls pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai, or a cozy hot chocolate. They also make a delightful brunch option alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait.
Optional Toppings
Consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top of the glaze for added texture and flavor. This simple addition can provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft rolls.
Conclusion
Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Rolls offer a sensory experience that delights the taste buds and warms the heart. The aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen is a reminder of the joy of baking during the fall season. These rolls not only bring comfort but also create lasting memories with family and friends. We encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and savor the happiness that comes from creating something delicious together. Enjoy every bite of your homemade goodness!
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Rolls
Ingredients
- 4.0 cups all-purpose flour
- 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1.0 teaspoon salt
- 1.0 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1.0 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups milk, warmed
- 0.5 cups pumpkin puree
- 2.0 large eggs
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
- 0.5 cups brown sugar, packed
- 2.0 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 0.25 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 1.0 cups powdered sugar
- 2.0 tablespoons milk
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the wet ingredients.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangular shape, about 0.5 inches thick.
- Add the Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture all over, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from the longer edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Cut into 12-15 even pieces and place them cut-side up in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until they puff up.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar if necessary.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve them warm. Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Rolls!