Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of fall flavors and comforting textures. The rich, nutty essence of brown butter combined with sweet pumpkin creates a delightful treat that is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or any cozy occasion. Each roll is enveloped in spiced cream cheese icing, making them irresistible. Bake these soft, pillowy rolls to impress your friends and family or simply enjoy them as a special indulgence for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and pumpkin makes every bite burst with flavor.
• Perfect for Fall: These rolls embody the essence of autumn, making them an ideal seasonal treat.
• Easy to Make: With a straightforward process, even novice bakers can create these delicious rolls.
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
• Impressive Presentation: Slathered in cream cheese icing, they look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Light-colored saucepan
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or dental floss
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading easy and efficient.
• Light-colored saucepan: Allows you to monitor the browning of the butter closely to avoid burning.
• Rolling pin: Essential for evenly rolling out your dough for perfect cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

• 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
• 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
• 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 unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it foams and bubbles. Stir frequently until it turns deep brown with a nutty aroma. Once done, remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In your stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine warm milk and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
2. Sprinkle the yeast on top and mix well.
3. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until foamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough Mixture

Once foamy:
1. Add remaining sugar, eggs, browned butter, pumpkin puree, flour (4¾ cups), and salt.
2. Mix on low speed until combined; then increase speed to medium and knead until smooth—about 5-6 minutes. If kneading by hand, do so for about ten minutes on a floured surface.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size—about one hour.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl:
* Combine dark brown sugar, additional pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until it forms a thick paste.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

After rising:
1. Punch down the dough to release air.
2. Roll it out on a floured surface into approximately a rectangle (20×10 inches).
3. Spread softened butter over the dough edges.
4. Evenly spread filling over the surface.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Roll up tightly from the longest side:
1. Pinch seams to seal.
2. Cut into twelve equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Arrange Rolls

Line your baking pan with parchment paper:
1. Place cut rolls inside with space between each one.
2. Cover again while preheating oven to 350°F for about thirty minutes.

Step 9: Bake

Pour heavy cream over assembled rolls before baking:
1. Bake until golden brown—approximately thirty minutes.

Step 10: Prepare Icing

While baking:
1. Beat together cream cheese, softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla essence, and pumpkin pie spice; mix until lump-free.

Step 11: Frost & Serve

Once baked:
Spread icing generously over warm rolls and sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie spice if desired. Serve immediately for best taste! Enjoy your delicious Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. They can be served in various delightful ways to enhance your breakfast or brunch experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• A steaming cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, creating a cozy morning ritual.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some pure maple syrup over the rolls. This adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the spices.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate these rolls into a decadent dessert. Simply dollop on top before serving.

On a Festive Brunch Table

• Arrange the rolls on a large platter as part of a festive brunch spread. Add fresh fruit or nuts for color and crunch.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy these rolls as a comforting afternoon snack. They are perfect for pairing with tea or hot cocoa during chilly days.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Transform your cinnamon rolls into dessert by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast between warm and cold is irresistible!

How to Perfect Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the ultimate batch of Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check that your yeast is active and your spices are fresh for the best flavor and rise.
• Pay attention to dough texture: The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not overly sticky. Adjust flour as needed during kneading.
• Let dough rise properly: Ensure your dough has enough time to double in size during proofing, which enhances its flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip the browning process: Properly browning the butter adds a nutty depth that will make your rolls unforgettable.
• Cool slightly before icing: Allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before adding icing to prevent it from melting away completely.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for added texture and taste variations.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options.

1. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls, enhancing their flavor profile.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light balance and additional nutrients alongside the rich rolls.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Soft, fluffy scrambled eggs make for an excellent protein-rich side that complements the sweet cinnamon rolls perfectly.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy and crunchy contrast that pairs well with warm rolls.
5. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links add heartiness to your brunch table, making it more satisfying when served alongside sweet rolls.
6. Chai Tea Latte: A spiced chai latte enhances the fall flavors found in pumpkin cinnamon rolls while providing warmth and comfort.
7. Apple Compote: Serve warm apple compote on the side for an extra layer of sweetness and seasonal flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
8. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out the sweetness of your cinnamon rolls nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the browning process: Not browning the butter properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to watch the butter closely until it turns deep brown and has a nutty aroma.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can drastically alter the texture and taste. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Ignoring dough proofing times: Rushing the dough’s rise can result in dense rolls. Allow the dough to double in size for light, fluffy rolls.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can impact yeast activation. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Overfilling the rolls: Adding too much filling can cause spills during baking. Spread the filling evenly while leaving a margin around the edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If you anticipate not eating them quickly, keep them covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezing Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Place unbaked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place rolls in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for 15-30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can prepare the rolls, let them rise, and then refrigerate them overnight before baking. This allows for fresh-baked rolls in the morning!

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you could use applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes as alternatives, though they will alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and puffed up. You can also tap on them lightly; they should sound hollow when fully baked.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just note that this may change the texture slightly.

How do I store leftover cream cheese icing?

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can be used on other baked goods too!

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping spices based on your preference. Bake these during fall gatherings or enjoy them as a cozy treat anytime!