The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn, and today I’m inviting you into my kitchen here on the island of Crete. The breeze outside carries the scent of sea salt and olive trees, but inside, the air is filled with the comforting aroma of pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
Every fall, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s kitchen warm, a little messy, and always full of love. She’d make sweet breads on chilly mornings, her hands dusted with flour while I watched in awe. I’ve kept her spirit alive through my own version of this autumn favorite: pumpkin cinnamon rolls with melted butter drizzle.
These rolls capture everything I adore about baking simplicity, comfort, and a touch of creativity. The soft pumpkin dough is gently spiced, the filling swirls with cinnamon and brown sugar, and the warm butter drizzle ties it all together in pure bliss.
Whether it’s a Sunday brunch, a cozy breakfast, or an afternoon treat, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls bring everyone to the table with smiles and laughter. They’re my go-to recipe when I want something sweet, homey, and easy to love.
If you’re new to baking, don’t worry you’ll find that this pumpkin cinnamon rolls recipe is straightforward and forgiving. It’s all about enjoying the process, not perfection. So grab your apron, a little pumpkin purée, and let’s bake a batch that’ll make your kitchen smell like heaven.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ⅔ cup pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons softened butter
For the Melted Butter Drizzle:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons warm milk (as needed for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Make the Dough
In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, whisk pumpkin purée, sugar, melted butter, egg, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the foamy yeast mixture and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss (for clean cuts). Place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove and let cool slightly.
Step 5: Make the Melted Butter Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Drizzle generously over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Serving & Enjoyment
Serve your pumpkin cinnamon rolls warm, with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. They taste best fresh out of the oven, but you can reheat them the next day for that same comforting aroma.
These pumpkin cinnamon rolls with melted butter drizzle make the perfect breakfast on a crisp morning or a sweet addition to any brunch. I love serving them on my balcony here in Crete, watching the sunrise while the butter drizzle slowly melts into every swirl.
Cooking may get a little messy, but that’s where the joy lives. These rolls are more than just food they’re an invitation to slow down and savor the simple, beautiful moments we share.
Conclusion
Baking pumpkin cinnamon rolls with melted butter drizzle is like wrapping your home in a warm hug. Every swirl carries a bit of sweetness, spice, and love the kind that brings family and friends closer.
So next time you crave something special, skip the store-bought treats and bake a batch of these golden, gooey rolls. From my Cretan kitchen to yours, I hope this recipe fills your home with delicious aromas and your heart with joy.
100-Word Version of My Story
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete, Greece! I grew up learning to cook beside my grandmother, whose kitchen always smelled like cinnamon and love. These pumpkin cinnamon rolls remind me of her warmth—soft, sweet, and a little messy but always full of joy. Cooking for me isn’t just about food—it’s about connection, laughter, and sharing moments that feel like home. So grab your whisk, make a little mess, and bake along with me. These pumpkin cinnamon rolls with melted butter drizzle will fill your kitchen with comfort and your heart with sweetness.