Description
These Small-Batch Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect autumnal treat, combining the cozy warmth of spiced pumpkin with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling. Perfectly scaled for a smaller household, these rolls deliver a soft, pillowy crumb and are finished with a rich maple frosting. They offer the nostalgic aroma of a grandmother’s kitchen in a manageable, rewarding baking project that yields six fresh, golden rolls. Ideal for a slow Saturday morning or a quiet, comforting afternoon indulgence.
Ingredients
1/3 cup whole milk, warmed to 100-115ºF
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
2 tbsp light brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 tbsp light brown sugar (packed, for filling)
2 tbsp granulated sugar (for filling)
1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon (for filling)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
1 tbsp maple syrup (for frosting)
1–2 tsp milk (for frosting)
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk the warm milk and yeast, letting it sit until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine flour, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and salt.
Stir in the pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and the milk-yeast mixture until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
Roll the dough out into a rectangle, spread with softened butter, and sprinkle with the mixed filling sugars and cinnamon.
Roll tightly into a log and cut into 6 equal rolls.
Place rolls in a small greased baking dish and let rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375ºF and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Whisk frosting ingredients together and drizzle over the warm rolls.
Notes
Ensure the milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast. These are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg