Cozy Canned Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Family Weekend Treat

Weekends possess a certain enchantment, as the scent of freshly baked items elevates the mundane to the memorable. Imagine the family gathering in the kitchen, laughter echoing, while the inviting, spiced fragrance of cinnamon rolls wafts the atmosphere. Baking transcends mere procedure; it constitutes a ritual of affection, particularly when the formula incorporates the soothing sweetness of pumpkin.

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are an enjoyable variation of the classic pastry. They blend the deep flavor of canned pumpkin with the captivating scent of cinnamon and nutmeg. This particular recipe is not just baking; it is about uniting people, creating memories, and enjoying a dish that provides comfort in the same way as a warm embrace placed on a plate. Whether one is an experienced baker or a curious beginner, these rolls are guaranteed to be the quintessential weekend delight. Let's get started!

Recipe for Canned Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
• ½ cup canned pumpkin
• ½ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg

For the Filling

• ⅔ cup light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

1. Mix warm milk and yeast in a big bowl. Let it rest for 5 minutes till frothy. Add canned pumpkin, melted butter, sugar, egg, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix together.
2. Gradually add flour, kneading until dough becomes smooth and slightly sticky. It will take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or till it gets double in size.
4. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg together in a small bowl. Set aside softened butter for spreading.
5. Roll dough into a rectangle about 12x18 inches.
6. Spread softened butter evenly over dough. Sprinkle sugar-spice mixture on top, pressing lightly into dough.
7. From one long side start rolling the dough tightly like a log. Cut that log into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
8. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Provide enough gap between them for the second rise. Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them raise another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat your oven at 180°C. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or till golden brown and well cooked.
10. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

How to Serve Them

Serve the pumpkin cinnamon rolls warm for the ultimate comfort experience. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or a ceramic platter to enhance their golden tones. Drizzle a generous amount of glaze over the top just before serving for that irresistible sticky sheen. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or a few chopped pecans on top for texture and charm. Serve with a steaming pot of masala chai or freshly brewed coffee for a warm family spread.

Other Pairings to Add

Maple Pecan Butter Spread

Top cinnamon rolls with a dollop of homemade maple pecan butter. Simply blend together toasted pecans with softened butter, a splash of maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt. The nutty richness complements the pumpkin's sweetness, adding a layer of indulgence that feels festive yet balanced.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Double the pumpkin fun by serving the rolls with a creamy pumpkin spice latte. Combine milk, pumpkin puree, a touch of sugar, pumpkin spice, and brewed coffee. Froth the mixture and top with whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon. This pairing brings out the warm, cozy flavors of autumn.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Serve the warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream as a sweet dessert option. The cold, creamy ice cream slowly melts over the rolls for a lovely contrast in textures and temperatures. A perfect way to end a meal.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which may be scarce!), store the cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them longer, you may refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. Reheat them in the microwave for 20 seconds or in a warm oven for 5 minutes to make them soft and fluffy again. You should glaze them right before serving so they don't get stale quickly.