Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of warm spices and sweet flavors, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging yourself on a chilly afternoon, these rolls will surely delight your taste buds. The nutty aroma of brown butter combined with the richness of pumpkin creates an irresistible pastry that is both soft and fluffy. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this unique twist on a classic favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter, pumpkin puree, and warm spices gives these cinnamon rolls a rich, delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fit perfectly into any meal.
• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it simple for bakers of all levels to create these delicious treats at home.
• Customizable Icing: Feel free to tweak the cream cheese icing to your liking—add more vanilla or even a hint of maple for extra flavor!
• Warm and Cozy: These rolls fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas as they bake, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, having the right tools is essential. Below are some recommended equipment pieces that will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Parchment paper
• Light-colored saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort in mixing and kneading the dough evenly.
• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out the dough for perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan allows enough space for all the rolls to rise beautifully during baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 115-120°F
• ½ cup granulated sugar, divided
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry or instant yeast
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree
• 4 ¾ cup – 5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Filling

• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened

For the Drizzle and Icing

• ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream, for drizzling over rolls before baking
• 8 ounces (block-style) full-fat cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla essence (I use vanilla bean paste)
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a small, light-colored saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, it will foam and bubble. Stir occasionally until it turns deep brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool while preparing the dough.

Step 2: Activate Yeast

In a stand mixer bowl or large bowl if mixing by hand, combine warm milk and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top; mix well. Let sit for 10-15 minutes until foamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once foamy, add remaining sugar, eggs, browned butter, pumpkin puree, 4 ¾ cups flour, and salt.

Step 4: Knead Dough

Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on low speed for about 1-2 minutes until combined. Increase speed to medium; knead until smooth and elastic for about 5-6 minutes. If kneading by hand on a floured surface, knead for about 10 minutes. Add additional flour if sticky.

Step 5: First Rise

Shape dough into a ball; place in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or towel. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about an hour.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until combined into a thick paste.

Step 7: Shape Rolls

After rising, punch down dough to release air; turn out onto floured surface. Roll into approximately 20×10 inches. Spread softened butter over dough; then layer filling mixture leaving edges clear.

Step 8: Roll Log

Roll up tightly from longest side with seam side down. Pinch seam to seal edges. Cut into 12 pieces using dental floss or knife.

Step 9: Arrange in Baking Pan

Line baking pan with parchment paper; place cut rolls inside leaving space between them. Cover with plastic wrap/towel while preheating oven to 350°F.

Step 10: Add Cream & Bake

Remove cover; pour heavy cream over rolls ensuring coverage in crevices. Bake until golden brown for about 30 minutes.

Step 11: Make Icing

While baking rolls, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth in stand mixer or using handheld mixer. Add powdered sugar, vanilla essence, and pumpkin pie spice; mix until free of lumps.

Step 12: Ice & Serve

Once baked, spread cream cheese icing over warm rolls. Optionally garnish with extra pumpkin pie spice before serving immediately. Enjoy your delightful Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. These rolls can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Classic Presentation

• Serve warm: Enjoy the rolls straight from the oven for the best taste and texture.
• Drizzle with icing: Top each roll with cream cheese icing for a sweet finish.

Coffee Pairing

• Pair with coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the spices in the rolls beautifully.
• Try flavored lattes: Pumpkin spice or vanilla lattes add an extra layer of flavor.

Seasonal Garnishes

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy contrast to the soft rolls.
• Sprinkle with powdered sugar: A light dusting adds a touch of elegance to your serving.

Breakfast Buffet

• Create a brunch spread: Include fruits, yogurt, and granola alongside the rolls for variety.
• Offer toppings: Set up a toppings bar with additional icing, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh yeast and spices will elevate the flavors in your rolls.
• Control dough temperature: Warm milk should be around 115-120°F to activate the yeast properly.
• Knead thoroughly: Kneading until smooth and elastic helps create a fluffy texture in your rolls.
• Don’t rush proofing: Allow the dough enough time to rise; it should double in size for best results.
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on the color of the rolls during baking to avoid overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are delicious on their own but can be paired with various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layered with granola and berries, this dish provides protein and crunch.
3. Spiced Chai Tea – The warm spices in chai complement the cinnamon flavors of the rolls perfectly.
4. Savory Breakfast Hash – A mix of roasted potatoes, peppers, and onions pairs well with sweet cinnamon rolls.
5. Eggs Benedict – This classic dish adds richness and is great alongside sweet pastries.
6. Oatmeal with Honey – Creamy oatmeal drizzled with honey offers a comforting contrast to cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with something as delightful as Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Bold Butter Mistake: Not browning the butter properly can lead to a less rich flavor. Ensure you watch the butter closely while it melts, stirring occasionally until it reaches a deep brown color.

• Bold Yeast Neglect: Using expired yeast can prevent your rolls from rising. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and let it foam in warm milk before mixing.

• Bold Dough Overwork: Kneading the dough too much can make the rolls tough instead of soft and fluffy. Mix until just combined and elastic; if using a mixer, 5-6 minutes is ideal.

• Bold Filling Spillage: Not sealing the edges of your roll tightly can cause filling to leak out during baking. Pinch the seams firmly after rolling to keep everything inside.

• Bold Unattended Proofing: Leaving the dough to rise in too hot or too cold an environment can affect its texture. Aim for a warm, draft-free spot for optimal proofing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes for warm rolls.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Bold Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls that might help you out!

Can I make Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.

What if my Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls don’t rise?

This may happen if your yeast is inactive. Always check its freshness before starting your recipe.

Can I customize the filling for my Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices according to your taste preferences.

How should I store leftover Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Their unique flavor from browned butter complements pumpkin perfectly, making them suitable for any occasion. Try customizing them with your favorite spices or toppings—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these delicious rolls!