Skinny Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Light Cream Cheese Frosting

Marilyn’s 100-Word Story

Hi, I’m Marilyn, a 38-year-old from the sunlit island of Crete, Greece. Cooking has always been a part of who I am something I learned from my grandmother in her warm, fragrant kitchen. She taught me that food isn’t just about flavor; it’s about love, laughter, and sharing. I believe in keeping things simple but full of heart. These Skinny Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Light Cream Cheese Frosting remind me of cozy autumn mornings, the smell of cinnamon, and the joy of baking something comforting without guilt. I’m thrilled to share this lighter twist on a classic that feels like home.

The Story & Intro

There’s something magical about fall the cool air, golden leaves, and the smell of pumpkin spice floating through the kitchen. Every year, I find myself reaching for those warm flavors that wrap around you like a soft blanket. Back home in Crete, we didn’t have pumpkins growing on every corner, but my grandmother always found creative ways to make something special with whatever the season offered.

When I moved away, I discovered pumpkin purée and instantly fell in love with its velvety texture and cozy taste. I started experimenting, and that’s how these Skinny Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Light Cream Cheese Frosting came to life. They’re soft, golden, and filled with cinnamon-swirled goodness, but made lighter so you can enjoy one (or two!) without feeling guilty.

Unlike the heavy versions you find in bakeries, these skinny pumpkin cinnamon rolls are made with wholesome ingredients and less sugar. The pumpkin purée adds natural moisture and richness, so there’s no need for extra butter or oil. The frosting oh, that dreamy light cream cheese frosting is slightly tangy and perfectly sweetened.

This recipe has become a weekend ritual in my home. I make a batch, the house fills with the scent of cinnamon, and suddenly everyone’s in the kitchen with a cup of coffee in hand, waiting for the rolls to come out of the oven. That’s what cooking means to me creating memories one delicious bite at a time.

If you’ve been craving that pumpkin-spiced comfort but want to keep things light, these Skinny Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Light Cream Cheese Frosting are your new go-to treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🍁 Made with real pumpkin purée for flavor and moisture
• 💛 Less sugar and fat but still soft, fluffy, and indulgent
• 👩‍🍳 Easy to make—even for beginners
• 🕒 Perfect for cozy breakfasts, brunches, or dessert
• 🧁 Includes a lighter, tangy cream cheese frosting that ties it all together

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather everything—it’ll make baking easier and more enjoyable.

For the Dough:

• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
• 1 large egg
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

For the Light Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp milk (to reach desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your rolls will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Whisk in melted butter, pumpkin purée, and egg until smooth. Slowly add flour, salt, and spices. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix pumpkin purée, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The mixture should be thick and spreadable this is where the magic flavor lives!

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 14×9-inch rectangle. Spread the pumpkin filling evenly over the surface. Roll the dough tightly from the long side and slice into 10–12 rolls.

Arrange them in a lightly greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until creamy and smooth. For an extra-light texture, add a touch more milk.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Spread the light cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. The heat will slightly melt it, creating that irresistible glaze effect.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your skinny pumpkin cinnamon rolls warm with a steaming mug of coffee, spiced tea, or almond milk latte. For a brunch spread, pair them with fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait.

These rolls also freeze well just skip frosting before freezing. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently and top with fresh frosting. Perfect for cozy weekends or festive mornings!

💌 Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

• Make sure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast won’t rise properly.
• Don’t overfill the dough too much filling will make it hard to roll.
• If you want extra light rolls, replace half the flour with white whole wheat flour.
• Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Add a pinch of orange zest for a bright flavor twist!

🧾 Recipe Card

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about baking from scratch, especially when the result is as soft and comforting as these Skinny Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Light Cream Cheese Frosting. They capture the essence of fall while keeping things light and wholesome.

I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do it’s not just about baking; it’s about creating little moments of happiness in your kitchen. So, tie your apron, warm up that oven, and let the scent of cinnamon fill your home. These rolls will bring smiles, warmth, and maybe a touch of nostalgia to your table.

From my Cretan kitchen to yours happy baking, my friend! 💛