Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. The dough is filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices, and the chai cream cheese glaze is sure to fill your days with comfort. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique flavor that warms the soul.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holidays or cozy weekend breakfasts, these rolls can be enjoyed at any time of year.
• Comforting Texture: Soft, fluffy dough complements the sweet filling for an indulgent experience.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, they are great to share with family and friends during gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smoother, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Kitchen thermometer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in separating dry and wet ingredients easily.
• Rolling pin: This tool ensures even rolling of dough for consistent thickness throughout your cinnamon rolls.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet distributes heat evenly, ensuring perfectly baked rolls every time.

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

For the Filling

• 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 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

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit until frothy.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, mix both types of flour with sea salt and chai spice blend.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead until smooth and elastic—about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Let It Rise

1. Place kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a cloth and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size—approximately one hour.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

1. While dough rises, mix softened butter with brown sugar and dessert lover blend in a bowl.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

1. Once risen, punch down the dough on a floured surface.
2. Roll out into a rectangle about 16×24 inches.

Step 7: Add Filling

1. Spread prepared filling evenly over dough.
2. Sprinkle pumpkin spice blend across filling.

Step 8: Roll Up

1. Starting from one edge, roll up tightly into a log.
2. Cut into equal sections—12 pieces total.

Step 9: Final Rise

1. Place rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 10: Bake

1. Bake cinnamon rolls for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 11: Prepare Glaze

1. While rolls are baking, whisk together cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add cooled chai tea mixture gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Step 12: Glaze Your Rolls

1. Allow baked cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with glaze.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive gathering, they bring warmth and flavor to the table.

With Cream Cheese Glaze

• Drizzle the chai cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls for a creamy finish.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Serve alongside your favorite coffee or chai tea to enhance the spiced flavors.

As a Dessert Option

• Enjoy these rolls as a sweet treat after dinner, perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

On a Brunch Buffet

• Place them on a buffet table with other breakfast items like fresh fruit and yogurt for an inviting spread.

Garnished with Nuts

• Top with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are fluffy and flavorful, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast can prevent the dough from rising properly.

• Warm Ingredients: Ensure your milk and butter are warm but not hot when mixing. This activates the yeast for better rise.

• Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, giving you soft rolls.

• Let It Rise: Allow the dough enough time to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size; this step is crucial for fluffiness.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; overbaking can lead to dry rolls. Aim for a golden-brown finish.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving side dishes alongside your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy complement.

3. Savory Quiche
   A slice of vegetable quiche offers rich flavors that contrast nicely with sweet cinnamon rolls.

4. Chia Seed Pudding
   Creamy chia pudding topped with fruits provides a nutritious side that feels indulgent.

5. Spiced Oatmeal
   Serve warm spiced oatmeal garnished with nuts and fruits for a cozy addition.

6. Herbed Scrambled Eggs
   Lightly scrambled eggs seasoned with herbs deliver protein while enhancing the brunch vibe.

7. Nutty Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars offer an easy grab-and-go option that pairs well with coffee or tea.

8. Maple Glazed Bacon Alternatives
   Consider turkey bacon or smoked tempeh glazed with maple syrup for a savory touch without pork products.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience. However, there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder the dough from rising properly.
• Over-Working the Dough: Kneading is important, but over-kneading can make the rolls tough. Aim for a soft and elastic texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly to ensure the right ratios.
• Skipping the Rise Time: Allowing dough to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; patience pays off in texture.
• Underbaking the Rolls: Check for doneness by using a toothpick or pressing lightly on top. They should be golden brown and spring back when touched.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place rolls on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a covered skillet on low heat with a little water added to create steam, reheating for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries regarding this delicious recipe.

How do I make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter instead of dairy butter.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends, but adjust liquid levels as needed.

What is chai spice blend?

Chai spice blend typically includes cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. You can make your own or find it pre-mixed at stores.

How do I store my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Their warm spices and creamy glaze bring comfort on chilly days. Feel free to customize with nuts, raisins, or different spices to make them your own!