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 as a delightful dessert, these cinnamon rolls are a wonderful treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavors: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm and cozy flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.
• Quick and Easy: With just over an hour required, you can whip up these rolls without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Versatile Treat: These cinnamon rolls work wonderfully as a breakfast item or a sweet afternoon snack, making them great for any time of day.
• Impressive Presentation: Drizzled with chai cream cheese glaze, they are not only delicious but also visually stunning for gatherings.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch, offering your loved ones something truly special.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, having the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier and ensures a consistent texture.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking dish: A good-quality dish ensures even cooking and browning of your rolls.

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

• 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp.
• 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend

For the Glaze

• 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

Begin by warming the almond milk in a saucepan. Steep the black tea bags in it for about 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and stir in maple syrup and chai spice blend.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl, combine both flours, rapid rise yeast, sea salt, brown sugar, and pumpkin spice blend.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter (cooled), vanilla extract, and warm almond milk mixture.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Step 5: Let it Rise

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 30 minutes).

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Step 7: Add Filling

Spread softened butter over rolled-out dough. Sprinkle brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend evenly on top.

Step 8: Roll Up

Starting from one edge of the rectangle, roll up tightly into a log. Cut into equal pieces.

Step 9: Bake

Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Let them rise again for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for approximately 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 10: Prepare Glaze

While rolls bake, mix together powdered sugar and cream cheese in a bowl. Gradually add cooled chai tea mixture until desired consistency is reached.

Step 11: Drizzle & Serve

Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle with glaze before serving warm. Enjoy your delightful Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive holiday gathering, these rolls are sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the spices in the cinnamon rolls perfectly, enhancing their flavors.

Drizzle with Extra Glaze

• Adding more chai cream cheese glaze on top makes for an indulgent treat that’s rich and sweet.

Serve Warm with Butter

• Spreading a little softened butter on a warm roll adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Add a Side of Fresh Fruit

• Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls, balancing the meal.

Offer Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top creates a dessert-like experience that everyone will love.

Include Herbal Tea

• Pairing these rolls with herbal tea can enhance the chai flavors while providing a soothing drink option.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is key to achieving that fluffy, delectable texture. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially yeast and spices, are fresh for the best rise and flavor.

• Knead Well: Kneading the dough properly will develop gluten, resulting in soft and fluffy rolls.

• Watch Your Temperature: Make sure your liquids are warm but not hot; too much heat can kill the yeast.

• Allow Proper Rising Time: Letting the dough rise adequately is crucial for achieving those light and airy rolls.

• Sift Your Flour: Sifting flour helps aerate it, leading to lighter rolls with better texture.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving side dishes alongside your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your meal’s variety. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Breakfast Sausages: Savory breakfast sausages add a hearty element that pairs well with sweet treats.

3. Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait with granola and fruits brings freshness and crunch for added texture.

4. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad made of seasonal fruits can lighten the meal while adding natural sweetness.

5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns give a crunchy contrast, making for an exciting brunch plate.

6. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a nutritious option that complements the cinnamon rolls nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring Temperature: Using cold ingredients can hinder dough rise. Always ensure that your milk and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.

• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make rolls dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements to keep them fluffy.

• Skipping the Proofing Step: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for texture. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size for best results.

• Overbaking the Rolls: Keep an eye on baking time. Overbaked rolls lose moisture and flavor, so check for a golden-brown color rather than relying solely on time.

• Forgetting to Sift Dry Ingredients: Not sifting flour and powdered sugar can lead to lumps. Always sift before measuring for a smooth batter and glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat with a lid, heating them gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls:

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk or heavy cream for almond milk without affecting the recipe’s outcome.

How do I make my rolls extra fluffy?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and allow the dough ample time to rise. The warmer your environment, the better!

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

What spices are best for this recipe?

A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom works beautifully with pumpkin flavors. Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste!

How long do these cinnamon rolls last?

When stored properly, they will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or up to 2 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls combine warmth and comfort in every bite. Their fluffy texture and rich flavor make them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy comforts of fall!