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 cozy dessert treat, these rolls are irresistible and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm and comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: These cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch gatherings, or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
• Decadent Glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze adds a rich finish that enhances the overall taste experience.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, they’re great for sharing with family and friends during holidays or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful rolls, having the right tools will make your baking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the dough effortless and ensures all ingredients combine well for a fluffy texture.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve even thickness when rolling out the dough, leading to uniform baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping ingredients organized during preparation.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your cinnamon rolls to golden perfection.

Ingredients

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

1. In a small saucepan, heat the almond milk until warm but not boiling.
2. Steep black tea bags in the warm almond milk for about five minutes. Remove tea bags and add maple syrup and chai spice blend. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl of your stand mixer, combine both types of flour, yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar. Mix well.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter (cooled), vanilla extract, and warmed almond milk mixture until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dough Together

1. Gradually add wet ingredients into the dry ingredients in your stand mixer on low speed until combined.
2. Increase speed to medium and knead until dough is smooth (about five minutes).

Step 4: Let It Rise

1. Place dough in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
2. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about one hour).

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about half an inch thick.
2. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough.

Step 6: Fill & Shape Rolls

1. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the buttered surface followed by Dessert Lover Blend.
2. Starting from one edge, roll tightly into a log shape; cut into twelve equal pieces.

Step 7: Bake Rolls

1. Place rolls in a greased baking sheet; cover again with plastic wrap or towel.
2. Let rise again until doubled (about thirty minutes).
3. Preheat oven to375°F (190°C) then bake rolls for about forty minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze

1. While baking, beat together softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and cooled chai mixture until creamy.

Step 9: Glaze & Serve

1. Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle chai glaze on top before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These delightful rolls are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy breakfast to a festive brunch. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience with Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls.

With a Hot Beverage

• Chai Latte – Pair these rolls with a warm chai latte to enhance the spices in both treats.
• Coffee – A rich cup of coffee complements the sweetness and pumpkin flavors perfectly.
• Herbal Tea – Enjoying them with a calming herbal tea can create a soothing morning ritual.

Topped with Extras

• Cream Cheese Glaze – Drizzle the chai cream cheese glaze over the top for extra sweetness and creaminess.
• Nuts – Sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts adds crunch and pairs well with the soft texture of the rolls.
• Maple Syrup – A light drizzle of pure maple syrup brings an extra layer of flavor that is hard to resist.

For Special Occasions

• Holiday Brunch – Serve these rolls as part of a festive holiday brunch spread, alongside fresh fruit and pastries.
• Dessert Platter – Include them in a dessert platter with other sweet treats for gatherings and celebrations.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Making the perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is all about technique and care. Here are some tips to help you achieve roll perfection.

• Knead Thoroughly – Make sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps create fluffy rolls.
• Use Warm Ingredients – Ensure that liquids like almond milk and melted butter are warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
• Allow Proper Rising Time – Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving lightness.
• Sift Dry Ingredients – Sifting flour and powdered sugar eliminates lumps, leading to a smoother dough and glaze.
• Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on your rolls while baking. They should be golden brown but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing sides with your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can enhance their flavors and create a balanced meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your plate.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the rolls.
3. Smoothie Bowl – A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers nutritious balance alongside sweet rolls.
4. Savory Quiche – A slice of vegetable quiche provides savory notes that work well against sweet cinnamon rolls.
5. Crispy Hash Browns – The crunchy texture of hash browns contrasts nicely with the softness of the cinnamon rolls.
6. Oven-Baked Bacon Alternatives – Consider turkey bacon or smoked tempeh as savory accompaniments for those who enjoy meat-like flavors without pork products.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls even better. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Yeast Activation: Failing to activate the yeast properly can lead to dense rolls. Always use warm water (not hot) and let it sit until foamy.
• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can create tough rolls. Mix until just combined, ensuring a soft and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring Temperature: Using cold ingredients can hinder rise time. Always bring your milk, eggs, and butter to room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the Glaze: The glaze adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; it elevates the taste of your cinnamon rolls significantly.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: In baking, precision is key. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups carefully to ensure success.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them for up to 2 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one roll at a time on medium power for about 20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a lid over low heat for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls special?

These rolls combine the warmth of chai spices with pumpkin puree, creating a delightful fall treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives for a delicious vegan version.

How do I customize my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips into the filling for added texture and flavor!

What should I serve with my cinnamon rolls?

Pair them with your favorite coffee or chai tea for an extra cozy experience. They also go well with fresh fruit or yogurt.

How can I fix dry cinnamon rolls?

If your cinnamon rolls turn out dry, ensure you’re measuring flour correctly and not overbaking them. Adding more filling can also help retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only decadent but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them with different spices or fillings based on your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall in every bite!