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 cinnamon rolls will impress your family and friends with their unique flavors and delightful texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious rolls.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm, comforting flavor profile perfect for any season.
• Versatile Occasion – Ideal for breakfast, brunch gatherings, or as a sweet treat for holidays and special occasions.
• Perfectly Soft Texture – These rolls are fluffy on the inside while remaining slightly crispy on the outside—a delightful contrast!
• Delicious Glaze – Topped with a creamy chai glaze, each bite bursts with flavor that complements the cinnamon filling.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delectable rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl – A stand mixer makes kneading easy, but a mixing bowl works just fine for hand kneading.
• Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to create those perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Sifter – Helps to aerate the flour and ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 your almond milk in a microwave or saucepan until it’s just warm to touch. In a small bowl, steep the black tea bags in the warm almond milk for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In your stand mixer or mixing bowl:
1. Combine the warm almond milk with maple syrup and chai spice blend.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over this mixture and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add in both types of flour gradually along with sea salt.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Using your stand mixer’s dough hook or your hands:
* Knead until smooth and elastic—about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a mixer.
* Place dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about an hour until doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll Out Dough

Once risen:
1. Punch down the dough gently.
2. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

Step 5: Add Filling

Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Then sprinkle brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend evenly across:
* Starting from one edge of the rectangle, tightly roll up into a log shape.

Step 6: Cut Rolls

Slice the log into approximately 12 equal pieces:
* Place sliced rolls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover them again with a cloth:
* Let them rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 8: Bake

Bake rolls in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 9: Make Glaze

While rolls are baking:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese with sifted powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Gradually add cooled chai tea mixture until you achieve desired consistency.

Step 10: Glaze & Serve

Once baked:
* Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving. Enjoy your delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy brunch or a delightful dessert. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Cream Cheese Glaze

• Drizzle the chai cream cheese glaze generously over each roll for a sweet finish that complements the spices.

Warm with Fresh Fruit

• Serve the rolls warm alongside sliced apples or pears, adding a fresh and fruity contrast to the rich flavors.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. This adds a light, airy texture that balances well with the dense rolls.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Include these cinnamon rolls in a breakfast spread with eggs and fresh fruit. They make an excellent addition to any morning gathering.

With Hot Beverages

• Pair with coffee or chai tea to enhance the cozy vibe. The warm drinks help to bring out the chai spices in the rolls.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch. This not only enhances texture but also complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Achieving the perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and milk are at room temperature helps create a smooth dough that rises well.

• Check yeast freshness: Always use fresh yeast for optimal rise. If in doubt, proof it in warm water with sugar before mixing into the dry ingredients.

• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic is crucial. This develops gluten, giving your rolls that perfect fluffy texture.

• Don’t rush rising times: Allow your dough enough time to rise in a warm place until doubled in size. Patience leads to better flavor and texture.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to adjust the chai spice blend based on your taste preferences. More spice will enhance the chai flavor significantly.

• Let them cool slightly before glazing: Glazing while still warm is ideal, but allow them to cool just enough so that glaze doesn’t melt away completely.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Scrambled Eggs
   A fluffy scramble complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and adds protein for a balanced meal.

2. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the rolls.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that enhances breakfast indulgence without overwhelming sweetness.

4. Savory Scones
   Consider serving cheese or herb scones alongside for a delightful sweet-and-savory combination that satisfies various palates.

5. Chia Seed Pudding
   Light yet filling, chia seed pudding can be flavored with vanilla or almond extract, providing additional nutrients and fiber.

6. Smoothie Bowl
   A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds brings vibrancy and nutrition to your brunch table, complementing the warmth of cinnamon rolls.

7. Cinnamon Applesauce
   Serve warm applesauce spiced with cinnamon as an easy side; its tartness pairs perfectly with sweet flavors of pumpkin chai.

8. Herbed Potatoes
   Roasted or sautéed potatoes seasoned with herbs offer heartiness that contrasts nicely against soft cinnamon rolls while keeping breakfast satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can lead to poor dough rise. Always ensure your liquids and eggs are at room temperature for the best results.

• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Mix until just combined and let it rest for the perfect fluffiness.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate heat.

• Not Allowing Proper Rise Time: Skipping the rising time will result in dense rolls. Be patient and let the dough rise until it doubles in size.

• Skipping Sifting Flour: Not sifting flour can lead to heavy, dense cinnamon rolls. Always sift your flour for a lighter texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Freeze rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds per roll.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use whole milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk if you prefer. It will still yield delicious results!

How long do these cinnamon rolls take to make?

The total time is around 60 minutes, including prep and baking time, making it a quick and satisfying treat.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives for a vegan version.

What spices are best for the chai flavor?

A blend of cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves will enhance the chai flavor beautifully. Adjust according to your taste preferences!

How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

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

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts or using different spices based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert any day of the week!