Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Buns Recipe

Pumpkin Cinnamon Buns are a delicious fall treat that combines warm spices with the rich flavor of pumpkin. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, topped with creamy frosting that makes them irresistible!

What You Need

Ingredients

For the Dough:

3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp ground ginger

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 Tbsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 Tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough:

Mix Yeast and Milk: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Add Ingredients: Add pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, salt, and spices. Mix well.

Add Flour: Gradually mix in flour, one cup at a time, until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough.

2. Knead the Dough:

Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-8 minutes.

Shape: Form the dough into a ball.

3. First Rise:

Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Filling:

Mix Filling: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined. Set aside.

5. Assemble the Buns:

Roll the Dough: After rising, punch down the dough and roll it into a 12x18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread Filling: Evenly spread the filling over the dough, leaving a small border.

Roll Up: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices.

Arrange: Place the slices in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them.

6. Second Rise:

Let Them Rise Again: Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

7. Preheat the Oven:

Heat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

8. Bake: Once risen, bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. They should feel firm when lightly pressed.

9. Make the Frosting:

Mix Frosting: While the buns bake, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla. Add milk until the desired consistency is reached.

10. Frost the Buns: Once the buns are slightly cooled but still warm, spread the frosting over the top.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these buns warm with a hot drink like coffee, tea, or spiced cider. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day!

Variations

Maple Glaze: Instead of cream cheese frosting, mix powdered sugar with maple syrup and a little milk for a glaze.

Add Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans for extra crunch.

Spice it Up: Increase the spices for a stronger pumpkin spice flavor.

Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, butter, egg substitute, and vegan cream cheese.

Health Benefits

Pumpkin is packed with vitamins and fiber, making these buns a slightly healthier treat. Plus, making them at home means you control the ingredients!

Notes

Use pumpkin puree, not pie filling, for the best flavor.

You can prep these ahead. After assembling, refrigerate overnight, then let rise before baking in the morning.

Enjoy baking your Pumpkin Cinnamon Buns! They're sure to be a hit with everyone! #fallvibes🍂 #pumpkinbreadrecipe #fallbakingideas #fallfeelings #pumpkindessert #fallbakes #fallfeast