Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. The soft dough is filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices, creating a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a luscious chai cream cheese glaze topping it off, these rolls are sure to make any occasion feel special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert—these rolls fit any occasion.
• Easier than You Think: Despite their impressive appearance, these rolls are simple to make and come together quickly.
• Comforting Aroma: The heavenly scent of baking cinnamon rolls will fill your kitchen and invite everyone to gather around.
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, these rolls are ideal for sharing with family and friends during gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in your baking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness for your dough.
• Electric mixer: Makes mixing the dough easier and more consistent.

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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 and Glaze

• 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. (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

To start making your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together both flours, sea salt, pumpkin spice blend, and brown sugar.
3. In another bowl, mix almond milk (or whole milk), pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until well combined.
4. Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and mix well before adding to the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Once combined:
1. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth.
2. Place in a greased bowl and cover with a cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise:
1. Mix softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend in a bowl until creamy.

Step 4: Roll Out Dough

After rising:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface to about ½ inch thick.
3. Spread filling evenly across the rolled-out dough.

Step 5: Form Rolls

To shape your rolls:
1. Starting from one edge of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
2. Cut into equal pieces—about 12 rolls—and place them in a greased baking pan.

Step 6: Bake Your Rolls

Finally:
1. Cover with a cloth again and let rise for another 15–20 minutes while preheating.
2. Bake for about 30–35 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze

While baking:
1. Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Gradually add cooled chai tea mixture until you reach desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze & Serve!

After baking:
1. Allow rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with glaze.
2. Enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls warm!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can turn a delightful treat into an extraordinary experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious rolls.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the warm spices in the rolls, making for a cozy morning treat.
• Chai Tea: Enhance the chai experience by serving these rolls with a cup of chai tea, echoing the flavors in the rolls.

Top with Extra Glaze

• Chai Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle extra glaze on top for an added layer of sweetness and flavor.
• Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup can add a nice touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Serve Warm

• Freshly Baked: Serve them warm right out of the oven for that soft and gooey texture that everyone loves.
• Reheat: If you have leftovers, reheat them slightly in the microwave to regain their fresh-baked warmth.

Add Fruits and Nuts

• Fresh Fruits: Sliced bananas or apples make a great side that adds freshness and balances the sweetness.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some walnuts or pecans over the top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your rolls are fluffy and full of flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better dough consistency.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps create a light texture in your rolls.
• Let it Rise Fully: Allow ample time for the dough to rise until it doubles in size; patience is key for fluffy rolls.
• Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking; an accurate temperature makes a significant difference.
• Cool Before Glazing: Let your cinnamon rolls cool slightly before adding glaze; this prevents it from melting away completely.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Complementing your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein, balancing the sweetness of the rolls while keeping breakfast hearty.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and a variety of flavors that pair well with cinnamon.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that contrasts nicely with soft rolls.
4. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds creates a nutritious side that’s refreshing alongside sweet treats.
5. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal offers another comforting option, especially when flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg.
6. Savory Scones: Try serving them with savory scones made from cheese or herbs for a delightful contrast to sweet rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can ruin the outcome.

• Skipping the yeast proofing: Always proof your yeast in warm water before mixing it into your dough. This ensures it’s active and will help your rolls rise properly.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your eggs and almond milk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can slow down the rising process and lead to denser rolls.
• Overmixing the dough: Be gentle when mixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cinnamon rolls instead of soft, fluffy ones.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. Too much flour can make your rolls dry and crumbly.
• Ignoring resting times: Allow the dough to rest as directed. This is crucial for developing flavor and achieving the right texture in your rolls.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a roll in a skillet over low heat with a lid on, heating for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular whole milk or heavy cream if preferred.

How do I make these rolls vegan?

To make them vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or raisins into the filling for added texture and flavor.

How long do these rolls stay fresh?

When stored properly, they stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, different spices, or even swapping out pumpkin puree for other fruit purees. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today for a cozy treat that will surely delight everyone!