As the crisp autumn air dances through the trees and golden leaves blanket the ground, there’s something about fall that feels inherently cozy. It’s the season of warm sweaters, steaming mugs of tea, and—most importantly—the comforting aroma of baked goods wafting through the house. These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect way to embrace the magic of fall, combining the nostalgic charm of a classic cinnamon roll with the bold, seasonal flavors of pumpkin and chai spices.

Imagine gathering with loved ones on a chilly morning, sipping spiced chai or coffee, while sharing freshly baked rolls still warm from the oven. The fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the dough, paired with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and the heady aroma of chai spices, makes every bite feel like a hug from the season itself. It’s the ultimate comfort food for autumn mornings, brunch gatherings, or even an indulgent midnight snack by the fire.

These cinnamon rolls take the best of tradition and elevate it with modern, seasonal ingredients. Cinnamon rolls themselves have a long, storied history, with variations appearing across cultures—from Swedish kanelbullar to American-style sticky buns. Adding pumpkin and chai to the mix creates a fusion of flavors that feels both timeless and inventive. Pumpkin brings natural sweetness and moisture to the dough, ensuring that each roll is tender and luscious, while chai spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cardamom—add depth and warmth that make them distinctly autumnal.

This recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the world of yeast doughs, the process is straightforward and immensely rewarding. The smell of the dough rising, the therapeutic act of rolling and filling, and the anticipation as they bake to golden perfection—it all makes the experience as enjoyable as the result.

So, whether you’re looking to bring a little fall magic into your kitchen, impress guests with a homemade treat, or simply spend a quiet morning baking something special, these Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are sure to deliver. With their combination of seasonal flavors and traditional comfort, they’re bound to become a staple in your autumn recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seasonal Flavors: Pumpkin and chai spices make these cinnamon rolls the ultimate autumn treat. They capture the essence of the season with every bite.
Perfectly Fluffy: The dough is light, airy, and soft, thanks to bread flour and a perfectly balanced yeast dough.
Chai-Spiced Cream Cheese Glaze: A luscious topping that adds creaminess and just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.
Impressive Yet Simple: This recipe looks bakery-worthy but is surprisingly easy to make at home, with step-by-step guidance.
Family-Friendly: These rolls are perfect for sharing, whether as a holiday breakfast centerpiece or a cozy weekend indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

4 ½ cups bread flour
1 cup pumpkin purée
½ cup milk, warmed
½ cup sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg

For the Filling:

¾ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
3-4 tablespoons milk

How to Make Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy. This step ensures your yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.

Next, add the pumpkin purée, sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and spices to the bowl, stirring until well combined. Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes on a floured surface (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for convenience) until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in a small bowl. Spread the softened butter evenly across the surface of the dough when it’s ready, then sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture generously on top.

Step 3: Roll, Cut, and Rise Again

Roll the dough out into a large rectangle on a floured surface, approximately 12×18 inches. Spread the filling across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the rolls cool slightly, whip together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and milk until smooth and creamy. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls, letting it seep into every swirl.

Helpful Tips

Use Bread Flour for Best Results: Bread flour gives these rolls a sturdy yet soft texture. If you only have all-purpose flour, you can substitute, but the rolls might not be as fluffy.
Warm, Not Hot, Liquids: When activating yeast, ensure the milk is warm but not too hot (around 110°F). Too much heat can kill the yeast.
Plan Ahead: These rolls can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning. Simply cover the shaped rolls tightly and refrigerate overnight, letting them come to room temperature before baking.

Details

Prep Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Warm them slightly in the microwave before serving.
These rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually and thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes! Substitute plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese to make a vegan-friendly version.

What if I don’t have bread flour?
All-purpose flour works as a substitute, though the texture may be slightly less fluffy.

Can I skip the chai spices?
While the chai spices add a unique touch, you can use just cinnamon if you prefer a simpler flavor.

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Conclusion

There’s something magical about baking during the fall, and these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls capture that magic in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast treat, a show-stopping dessert, or simply a reason to linger in the kitchen on a crisp autumn day, this recipe has it all. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the flavors of pumpkin and chai fill your home with warmth and joy.

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Author: Dinah A.

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