Soft Pumpkin Rolls Recipe

If you are craving a soft, flavorful treat that brings a touch of autumn magic to your table, these Soft Pumpkin Rolls will quickly become your go-to delight. They boast a pillowy texture complemented by the warm, cozy spices that evoke memories of crisp fall mornings and festive gatherings. Bursting with real pumpkin purée and gently sweetened with honey, these rolls are not just soft but also full of wholesome goodness. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a snack, or as a comforting dessert, Soft Pumpkin Rolls offer a wonderful way to celebrate the season with a homemade touch that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Soft Pumpkin Rolls lies in their use of simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of softness, moisture, and rich flavor. From the yeast that helps the dough rise beautifully to the fragrant spices that give the rolls their signature cozy aroma, every element is essential.

• ½ cup water: Warm water activates the yeast, kickstarting the rise for light and fluffy rolls.
• Pinch sugar: A small amount helps feed the yeast, ensuring a perfect bloom.
• 1 ½ tsp active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that brings the dough to life with a tender texture.
• ¾ cup pumpkin purée: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that lovely fall color.
• ¼ cup honey: A gentle, natural sweetener that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
• 2 eggs (divided): Eggs provide structure and richness; one is used in the dough, the other as an egg wash.
• 1 tbsp butter (melted): Contributes a buttery softness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra): The foundation of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• 2 sticks butter (softened): Used in the whipped spice butter for a creamy, delectable finish.
• 3 tbsp brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight molasses note to the butter topping.
• ½ tsp kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the whipped butter.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: Classic fall spice that warms the palate beautifully.
• ½ tsp ginger: Adds a subtle zesty kick to the spice blend.
• ¼ tsp allspice: Deepens the spice profile with a hint of clove and nutmeg.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg: A nutty, slightly sweet spice that complements pumpkin perfectly.
• ⅛ tsp cloves: A little goes a long way, bringing a fragrant warmth.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by gently heating ½ cup of water until it reaches between 105°F and 115°F. This warm temperature is just right to encourage the yeast to wake up without killing it. Sprinkle in a pinch of sugar and your active dry yeast, then give it a quick stir. Watch as the yeast becomes bubbly and alive after about five minutes — this step is crucial for those Soft Pumpkin Rolls to rise to their fluffy potential.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Flour

In your mixer bowl, add the pumpkin purée, honey, melted butter, one beaten egg, and that lively yeast mixture. Gradually introduce the flour and salt, and switch to your dough hook attachment. This is where the transformation begins, as these ingredients meld into a soft, stretchy dough that is the heart of your rolls.

Step 3: Mix and Knead the Dough

Keep the dough hook spinning for about five minutes, incorporating the ingredients fully. Every now and then, pause to scrape down the sides to make sure nothing is left behind. If the dough feels too sticky to handle, sprinkle in a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time. When the dough becomes soft and elastic, pull it out and knead it gently a couple of times to form a smooth ball that’s ready to rise.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your dough ball in a greased bowl and lightly coat it with oil to prevent drying. Cover the bowl with cling film or a clean tea towel and set it aside in a warm spot. This resting period, lasting about 1 to 1 ½ hours, allows the dough to double in size, developing that irresistible tender crumb you dream about in Soft Pumpkin Rolls.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls and Second Rise

After the dough has grown, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal portions, then shape each into a small ball. Arrange these neatly in a greased 9″ x 13″ baking dish and cover them with a tea towel again. Let them rise for another 30 minutes in a cozy warm place — this second rise gives the rolls their light, airy texture.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Before baking, whisk your remaining egg and brush it over the tops of your rolls — this will give them an irresistible glossy, golden finish. Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they’re a beautiful golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool just a little so you can enjoy them without burning your tongue!

Step 7: Prepare the Whipped Spice Butter

While the rolls are baking or cooling, whip together softened butter with brown sugar, kosher salt, and the delightful blend of cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves. Whip for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes airy and creamy. This buttery topping is what takes your Soft Pumpkin Rolls from delicious to absolutely dreamy.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Spread plenty of the whipped spice butter over warm Soft Pumpkin Rolls and bite into that pillowy, spiced goodness. The butter melts slightly, mingling with the cinnamon-scented dough in a way that’s pure comfort wrapped up in every bite.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Rolls

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the rolls. These additions add texture and an elegant look, making your Smart Pumpkin Rolls irresistible to family and guests alike.

Side Dishes

Pair Soft Pumpkin Rolls with a warm mug of spiced apple cider or creamy chai tea for the ultimate cozy combo. They also complement savory breakfast items like scrambled eggs or sausage wonderfully, balancing sweet and savory flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls individually wrapped with a ribbon for gatherings or bake them as pull-apart rolls in a decorative pan. You could even slice a roll horizontally and create a sweet breakfast sandwich with cream cheese and fresh fruit for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Soft Pumpkin Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and moist but should be enjoyed quickly for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolls once cooled by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven before serving for fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

Reheat your Soft Pumpkin Rolls lightly in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Add whipped spice butter for an irresistible treat.

FAQs

Can I substitute canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin purée because canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can affect the dough’s texture and flavor.

What is the best way to ensure my rolls come out soft?

Keeping the dough well-kneaded but not overworked, allowing proper rises, and using the right balance of moisture from pumpkin and butter all help create those wonderfully soft pumpkin rolls.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

This recipe relies on all-purpose flour for structure, so switching to gluten-free flour requires special blends and might need added binders. Experiment with a trusted gluten-free bread flour mix for the best results.

Is it okay to use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, but adjust the method slightly by mixing instant yeast directly with the dry ingredients and skipping the activation step with water.

Can I add raisins or nuts to these rolls?

Absolutely! Fold in your favorite raisins or chopped nuts during the dough mixing or right before shaping to add texture and bursts of flavor to your Soft Pumpkin Rolls.

Final Thoughts

Soft Pumpkin Rolls bring the warmth and magic of the season right into your kitchen with their tender crumb, fragrant spices, and luscious whipped butter. They’re the kind of food that makes you smile with every bite and want to share the joy with friends and family. If you’ve been searching for a cozy recipe that feels like a hug baked into bread, give these Soft Pumpkin Rolls a try — you might just find your new fall favorite.

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