The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn, and today we’re diving into something warm, soft, and irresistibly comforting Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Pumpkin Butter Swirl. I still remember when I first tried adding pumpkin puree to my cinnamon rolls on a breezy October morning here in Crete. My grandmother always told me, “A little spice warms the heart.” She wasn’t wrong.
Back then, I didn’t have fancy mixers or special tools just my hands, some flour, and a love for creating something that made the whole house smell like comfort. These pumpkin cinnamon rolls became a family favorite, especially when we’d gather after a long day, sipping Greek coffee and laughing around the kitchen table.
What makes these rolls special isn’t just the pumpkin flavor — it’s that swirl of homemade pumpkin butter tucked between soft, pillowy layers of dough. It’s autumn wrapped in sweetness and spice, the kind of treat that turns an ordinary morning into something memorable.
If you’re searching for the best pumpkin cinnamon rolls recipe, this one’s packed with flavor, easy to follow, and filled with love. Whether you’re baking for your family or simply want your kitchen to smell like heaven, these pumpkin cinnamon rolls with pumpkin butter swirl will make you smile with every bite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the softest, most flavorful pumpkin cinnamon rolls with pumpkin butter swirl:
For the Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Pumpkin Butter Swirl
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Table of Contents
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, and egg. Add the yeast mixture, then slowly incorporate the flour, salt, and cinnamon until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Butter Swirl
While the dough rises, mix the pumpkin puree, softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a bowl until smooth. This creates that dreamy pumpkin butter filling that makes these rolls truly irresistible.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Rolls
Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches. Spread the pumpkin butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently roll it up from the long side into a tight log, then slice into 12 even rolls.
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake and Glaze
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and fluffy. While they bake, whisk together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk for the glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls, letting it melt slightly into the swirls — pure bliss.
Serving & Storage
These pumpkin cinnamon rolls with pumpkin butter swirl are best served warm, fresh from the oven. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai, or even Greek mountain tea for a perfect breakfast or cozy afternoon treat.
You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them for 10–15 seconds in the microwave or in a low oven until soft again.
Conclusion
Every time I make these pumpkin cinnamon rolls with pumpkin butter swirl, I’m reminded that baking is about more than the ingredients it’s about creating moments. The aroma of pumpkin, cinnamon, and butter fills the house and instantly brings warmth.
These rolls are soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, just like fall should taste. Whether you’re baking for your loved ones or simply treating yourself, this recipe is your invitation to slow down and savor something homemade.
From my Crete kitchen to yours, happy baking!
Short 100-Word Version
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete! These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Pumpkin Butter Swirl are one of my favorite cozy treats for fall. Soft, fluffy dough filled with creamy pumpkin butter and topped with a sweet cream cheese glaze they’re pure comfort. I first made them on a cool October morning, inspired by my grandmother’s love for warm, spiced desserts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon moment, these rolls bring the aroma of autumn right into your home. Bake them once, and they’ll become your new seasonal favorite!