If you're searching for the ultimate fall breakfast treat, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting are absolutely dreamy! Picture warm, pillowy rolls infused with pumpkin spice, swirled with gooey cinnamon-sugar, and generously slathered in a luscious, tangy-sweet frosting.

Each fluffy bite bursts with cozy autumn flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The creamy frosting, loaded with cinnamon, takes these rolls straight into decadent territory.

They're a must-try for pumpkin lovers and anyone hunting for the perfect crowd-pleaser for brunch, holidays, or crisp weekend mornings. This recipe elevates classic cinnamon rolls with a seasonal twist that'll have everyone begging for seconds!

I first made these one chilly October morning, and they've been on repeat every fall since. Make a batch-you deserve this little bit of pumpkin bliss.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls stacked on a platter with fluffy cinnamon cream cheese frosting

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Soft, Fluffy Rolls with the Perfect Pumpkin Twist

Enjoy incredibly tender rolls with real pumpkin puree and plenty of warm spices in every bite.

Gooey Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

A brown sugar and cinnamon filling melts into the dough, making each roll irresistible.

Luscious Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced-the cinnamon-laced frosting takes these rolls over the top.

Great for Make-Ahead Brunch

You can prepare these the night before for an easy, impressive breakfast or holiday treat.

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is the star of the show, making the rolls extra moist and adding a subtle earthy sweetness. Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and control over sweetness. If you're in a pinch, sweet potato puree can stand in, though it may slightly change the flavor profile.

Bread Flour

Bread flour gives these rolls their pillowy, chewy texture. Its higher protein content helps create a tender yet sturdy dough that stands up to the gooey filling. If you don't have bread flour, all-purpose flour works-but your rolls may be a bit softer and less structured.

Brown Sugar

For both the filling and dough, brown sugar brings rich, caramel molasses notes that perfectly complement the pumpkin and cinnamon. Light or dark brown sugar are both delicious; dark will give a deeper flavor.

Pumpkin Pie Spice

This is where the big autumn flavor happens-a fragrant mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Use a premade blend or make your own by combining those spices. Don't skip it; this is the ingredient that makes the rolls taste like fall!

Cream Cheese

The base of your dreamy frosting. For the silkiest finish, let your cream cheese come fully to room temperature before mixing. You can use full-fat or reduced-fat (neufchâtel) cream cheese. If you need a dairy-free version, a firm vegan cream cheese can be substituted, though the flavor will shift slightly.

Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Bloom the Yeast

Start by combining the warm milk and 1 tablespoon of the sugar in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top, stir, and let it sit for about 5-8 minutes, until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active!

Mix the Dough

Add the pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, remaining sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined. Gradually add the bread flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but pull away from the bowl.

Knead and Let Rise

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for 6-8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic (or knead with a dough hook on medium speed for 5 minutes). Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled-about 60-75 minutes.

Roll, Fill, and Shape

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a 14x18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly atop the butter. Gently press the mixture into the dough.

Roll up tightly, starting from the longer side. Pinch to seal the edge, then cut into 8 even rolls and arrange in a greased 9x13-inch pan.

Second Rise

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let the rolls rise again in a warm place until nearly doubled, about 30-40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake

Bake the rolls for 23-27 minutes, or until golden brown and the centers spring back lightly when touched. If they're browning too fast, loosely cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until creamy. Add milk by the tablespoon until your frosting is silky and spreadable.

Frost and Serve

Spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls right after baking. The frosting will melt slightly, creating a glossy, irresistible glaze. Serve fresh and watch them disappear!

Recipe Variations

Make It Overnight

Short on time in the morning? Prep the rolls through the cutting and pan arrangement steps, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly while the oven preheats, then bake as directed for a fresh, easy breakfast!

Nut Lovers' Crunch

Level up your filling by sprinkling a half cup of chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar before rolling up the dough. The added crunch is a delicious contrast to the soft, tender rolls.

Dairy-Free or Vegan

Swap the dairy milk for your favorite plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and choose dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. The flavor remains robustly cozy, and you won't miss the dairy!

Gluten-Free Twist

Substitute a quality one-to-one gluten-free flour blend for the bread flour, and check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The texture will vary, but you can still enjoy this seasonal treat.

Maple Frosting

Craving something extra fall-ish? Replace the milk in the frosting with pure maple syrup for a lovely depth and a hint of maple sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

These pumpkin cinnamon rolls make a show-stopping brunch centerpiece. Pair them with crisp bacon or savory sausage, a big bowl of seasonal fruit, and hot coffee or spiced chai for a cozy breakfast spread. For a festive touch, garnish with a dusting of extra cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top of the frosting!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 10-12 minutes until soft and gooey. These rolls freeze well: wrap unfrosted rolls tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, warm, and frost just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting (FAQ)

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

A: Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which can throw off the flavor and sweetness balance. For best results, stick with pure pumpkin puree.

Q: How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

A: The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy. Gently press it with your finger-if it slowly springs back, it's ready to go!

Q: Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! As mentioned above, shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking in the morning.

Nothing says "cozy fall" like tender Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls warm from the oven, crowned with swoon-worthy cinnamon cream cheese frosting. I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does! If you try it, please leave a comment or rating below-I can't wait to hear how these rolls brighten your morning!