Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Delight in the flavors of autumn with these Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Combining the rich taste of brown butter with the warmth of pumpkin and cinnamon, these rolls are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy weekends at home. With a luscious spiced cream cheese topping, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and pumpkin creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and delightful.
• Perfect for Fall: These cinnamon rolls capture the essence of autumn, making them ideal for seasonal celebrations and family gatherings.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet taste, these rolls are straightforward to prepare, making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet dessert after dinner—these rolls fit any occasion perfectly!
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to indulge.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer helps save time by kneading dough efficiently, while a mixing bowl is essential if you prefer to knead by hand.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin ensures even dough thickness, which is crucial for consistent baking results.
• Baking pan (9×13 inch): This size is perfect for accommodating all 12 rolls while allowing them to rise beautifully.

Ingredients

Delightfully soft cinnamon rolls made with pureed pumpkin and fragrant brown butter, crowned with a spiced cream cheese topping—perfect for autumn indulgence!

Ingredients:
– ½ cup unsalted butter (browned)
– 1 cup warm whole milk
– ½ cup granulated sugar (divided)
– 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
– 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
– ¾ cup pumpkin puree
– 4¾ – 5 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– ¼ cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
– ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
– ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tsp vanilla essence
– ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Begin by warming the unsalted butter in a pot. Cook it until it reaches a golden hue, then allow it to cool slightly before using it in your dough.

Step 2: Make the Dough

• In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow it to froth for about 5 minutes.
• Once frothy, add the remaining sugar, prepared brown butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, flour (starting with 4¾ cups), and salt into the mixture.
• Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer for about 5–6 minutes until smooth. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix together dark brown sugar, additional pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until you achieve a smooth paste.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 20 by 10 inches. Spread softened butter over it followed by an even layer of your filling. Roll tightly from one end to form a log and slice it into 12 individual rolls.

Step 5: Arrange and Rise

Place the sliced rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let them rise as you preheat your oven to 350°F. Before baking, pour any remaining cream over the rolls.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Prepare Icing

While your rolls bake, whisk together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla essence and pumpkin pie spice until fully combined.

Step 8: Frost & Serve

Once baked rolls are warm from the oven, generously coat them with icing. Enjoy your delicious Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls while savoring the seasonal flavors!

How to Serve Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, serving these rolls can elevate any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Warm with Cream Cheese Icing

• Serve the rolls warm, generously drizzled with the spiced cream cheese icing for a decadent touch. The warmth complements the creamy texture beautifully.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your cinnamon rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or latte. The rich flavors of brown butter and pumpkin work wonderfully with your morning brew.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each roll for an extra indulgent treat. This adds a lightness that balances the richness of the flavors.

As a Dessert Platter

• Create a dessert platter featuring these rolls alongside seasonal fruits like apples and pears. This adds freshness and color to your table.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• For those who love a sweet kick, drizzle some pure maple syrup over the rolls. It enhances the autumn flavors perfectly.

With Hot Apple Cider

• Serve your cinnamon rolls with a warm cup of spiced apple cider. The combination makes for a cozy fall experience.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the best results with your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your yeast, spices, and dairy products are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size; this step is crucial for fluffy rolls.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking. Overbaking can dry them out, while underbaking may leave them doughy.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the amounts of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preferences.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for longer storage.
• Reheat Gently: Reheat any leftover rolls in the microwave or oven at low heat to restore their softness before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche can complement the sweet flavors while adding protein.
4. Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The savory notes from bacon or sausage provide a great counterpoint to the sweetness.
5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and depth, making them perfect as finger food alongside your rolls.
6. Autumn Salad: A salad featuring greens, nuts, and cranberries pairs beautifully with these cinnamon rolls’ rich flavors.
7. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those who want an extra sweet treat, cookies can round out dessert nicely.
8. Hot Chocolate: A cozy beverage like hot chocolate works as both a drink and dessert companion!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:

• Not browning the butter properly: Ensure that the butter reaches a golden hue without burning. This adds depth of flavor, so pay close attention while melting it.

• Skipping the yeast activation: Make sure to let the yeast froth in warm milk with sugar before mixing it into the dough. This step is essential for light and fluffy rolls.

• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Start with less flour and gradually increase until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky.

• Not allowing enough rising time: Give your dough ample time to rise until it doubles in size. Rushing this step can result in tough rolls.

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. Overbaking can dry them out, so check for a golden color and a soft center.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days.

Freezing Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.

• Microwave: Put rolls on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warmed through, being careful not to overdo it.

• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover and warm for 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Assemble the rolls, then refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh in the morning.

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can use applesauce or mashed bananas as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

How do I ensure my cinnamon rolls rise properly?

Ensure that your yeast is active by checking if it foams when mixed with warm milk and sugar. Also, provide a warm environment for rising.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to these cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the filling before rolling them up.

What should I do if my icing is too thick?

If your spiced cream cheese icing is too thick, add a little bit of milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for cozy autumn mornings or special occasions. Their soft texture and delightful flavors make them irresistible! Don’t hesitate to customize them by adding ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist. Enjoy creating this delicious treat!