Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices. The addition of chai cream cheese glaze elevates them to a whole new level of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a brunch, or simply craving something sweet, these rolls are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires simple ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm and inviting flavor that’s perfect for fall.
- Versatile Occasions: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or even as a special treat during the holidays.
- Comforting Texture: These rolls come out fluffy and soft, providing a delightful mouthfeel with every bite.
- Irresistible Glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze adds a sweet finish that makes these cinnamon rolls truly unforgettable.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls successfully, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results in your baking.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough for uniform rolls.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for baking multiple rolls at once.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened (You can use whole milk, if desired)
- 2 black tea bags, premium (You can also use a chai tea bag and omit the spice blend)
- 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp chai spice blend (See Notes!)
- 4 cups organic All-purpose flour (I love Bob’s Red Mill)
- 2 cups Artisan Bread flour (I love Bob’s Red Mill; See Notes!)
- 1 packet Rapid Rise Yeast (That’s 2 1/4 tsps!)
- 1-2 tsps pumpkin spice blend
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 cup WARM water
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar + 1 Tbsp
- 1 1/4 cup Almond milk, unsweetened + at room temp. (You can use whole milk or heavy cream, if desired)
- 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (NOT Pie filling!)
- 2 large eggs, room temp.
- 6 Tbsps unsalted butter, melted + cooled until warm (Make sure that it’s WARM, not hot!)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp.
- 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend
For the Glaze
- 3 cups organic powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 oz. organic cream cheese, softened at room temp. (That’s 1/2 a pack!)
- 3-4 Tbsps cooled Chai tea mixture (See Notes!)
How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming your almond milk in a small saucepan until it’s just warm to the touch. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
Combine all-purpose flour, bread flour, rapid rise yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar. Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
Mix warm almond milk with maple syrup and pumpkin puree until smooth.
Step 4: Bring It Together
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients:
Stir until combined using a rubber spatula. If too sticky, add more flour gradually.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
On a lightly floured surface:
Knead dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Form into a ball.
Step 6: First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl:
Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
Step 7: Prepare Filling
While dough is rising:
Mix softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend in a bowl until creamy.
Step 8: Roll Out Dough
Once risen:
Roll out dough into a rectangle on floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
Step 9: Add Filling
Spread filling evenly over rolled-out dough:
Leave about half an inch around edges to prevent overflow when rolling up.
Step 10: Roll It Up
Starting from one long edge:
Carefully roll up dough into a tight log shape. Cut into equal pieces using dental floss or sharp knife.
Step 11: Second Rise
Arrange rolls on parchment-lined baking sheet:
Cover again with cloth and let rise for an additional 20 minutes.
Step 12: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C):
Bake rolls for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 13: Prepare Glaze
While rolls are baking:
Beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl until smooth; gradually add cooled chai tea mixture until desired consistency is reached.
Step 14: Glaze Rolls
Once baked:
Allow cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with chai cream cheese glaze. Enjoy!
Now you have delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven during any occasion!
How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Serving your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is all about creating the perfect experience. These rolls are deliciously sweet and filled with aromatic spices, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your cinnamon roll experience.
With a Hot Beverage
- Chai Tea: Pair your rolls with a warm cup of chai tea to enhance the spiced flavors.
- Coffee: A rich coffee complements the sweetness of the rolls and balances the spices perfectly.
For Breakfast or Brunch
- Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside seasonal fruits like apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait: Add a side of yogurt topped with granola for a balanced meal that adds creaminess and crunch.
As a Dessert
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top turns these rolls into an indulgent dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the rolls for an extra layer of sweetness.
How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Perfecting your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve cinnamon roll perfection.
- Use Warm Ingredients: Ensure that your milk and butter are warm, not hot; this helps activate the yeast effectively.
- Don’t Rush Rising Time: Allow enough time for the dough to rise until it doubles in size; this results in fluffy rolls.
- Sift Your Flour: Sifting flour helps aerate it, ensuring a lighter texture in your rolls.
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to avoid dense rolls.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the chai spice blend to suit your taste; more spice can create bolder flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
When serving your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, consider these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully. Each option offers something unique that enhances your meal.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Creamy Greek yogurt layered with fruits and granola provides a refreshing balance.
- Maple Bacon Strips: The savory-sweet combination of crispy bacon pairs excellently with the sweet rolls.
- Fresh Apple Salad: A crisp apple salad dressed in lemon juice adds brightness and crunch.
- Warm Spiced Cider: Serve alongside warm cider infused with spices for an autumnal vibe.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein, making this dish perfect for a brunch spread.
- Nutty Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars add texture and keep things light alongside the soft rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can shock the yeast and affect rising. Use room temperature ingredients for better results.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Use a scale or fluff the flour before scooping to get an accurate measurement.
- Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Knead just until smooth and elastic for a fluffy texture.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for proper rising. Be patient; this will enhance flavor and texture.
- Not cooling the glaze properly: A hot glaze will melt into the rolls. Let it cool slightly to achieve perfect drizzling consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 2 months before baking.
- Alternatively, freeze baked rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm one roll at a time on high for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Cover with a lid on low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, it’s best to use pure pumpkin puree as pie filling has added sugars and spices that may alter the recipe’s outcome.
How do I make my cinnamon rolls fluffier?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and allow enough rising time. Also, avoid overworking the dough during kneading.
Can I substitute almond milk with another type of milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk or heavy cream as alternatives without compromising the flavor or texture significantly.
How do I customize my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit into the filling for added texture and flavor variations.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Check that your yeast is active; warm water should be around 110°F (43°C). If it remains flat after resting, it might need more warmth or time.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls offer a cozy blend of flavors perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture combined with the chai cream cheese glaze makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy this delightful recipe any time of year!
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These soft, fluffy rolls are infused with savory pumpkin and aromatic chai spices, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile ideal for fall. Topped with a creamy chai cream cheese glaze, each bite is an irresistible combination of sweetness and spice. Whether served at breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike. With straightforward preparation steps and simple ingredients, bakers of all skill levels can create this decadent dish that embodies the essence of cozy autumn vibes.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened
- 2 black tea bags, premium
- 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp chai spice blend
- 4 cups organic All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Artisan Bread flour
- 1 packet Rapid Rise Yeast
- 1–2 tsps pumpkin spice blend
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 cup WARM water
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar + 1 Tbsp
- 1 1/4 cup Almond milk, unsweetened + at room temp.
- 1 cup organic pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs, room temp.
- 6 Tbsps unsalted butter, melted + cooled until warm
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp.
- 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend
- 3 cups organic powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 oz. organic cream cheese, softened at room temp.
- 3–4 Tbsps cooled Chai tea mixture
Instructions
- Warm almond milk and steep tea bags for 5 minutes.
- Combine dry ingredients in one bowl; mix wet ingredients in another.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures; knead until smooth.
- Let dough rise for 30 minutes.
- Prepare filling by mixing softened butter with brown sugar.
- Roll out dough, spread filling, roll up tightly, and cut into pieces.
- Allow rolls to rise again for 20 minutes before baking at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
- Prepare glaze while rolls bake by mixing cream cheese with powdered sugar and cooled chai mixture.
- Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (75g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients to enhance yeast activation. Ensure proper rising time for fluffy rolls; do not rush the process. Experiment with spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for variations.
