Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and bring a delightful twist to your traditional cinnamon roll. The combination of warm spices and creamy chai glaze makes them a cozy treat for any occasion. Plus, they are easy to make, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas that will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and chai spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy these rolls for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon snack.
• Comforting Aroma: Baking these rolls fills your home with delightful scents that evoke warmth and comfort.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip these up in just over an hour!
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these rolls will impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Essential for easily combining ingredients until smooth.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for the perfect dough consistency.
• Rolling pin: Helps to evenly roll out the dough for a beautiful shape.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking those delicious rolls.

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

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, add almond milk, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add in all-purpose flour and artisan bread flour along with chai spice blend and sea salt.
4. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
2. Place it in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a towel.
3. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
3. Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough.

Step 4: Add Filling and Cut Rolls

1. Sprinkle brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend evenly over the buttered dough.
2. Roll the dough tightly from one end to another.
3. Slice into equal pieces about 1 inch thick.

Step 5: Bake Your Rolls

1. Place slices on a lined baking sheet with space between each roll.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare Glaze

While rolls are baking:
1. In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Gradually mix in cooled chai tea mixture until combined.

Step 7: Serve!

Once baked rolls have cooled slightly:
Drizzle glaze generously over each roll before serving warm!

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

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for sharing during breakfast or brunch gatherings. Their delightful flavors make them a versatile treat for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Chai Latte: Pair these rolls with a warm chai latte to enhance the spiced flavors.
• Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls beautifully.

Topped with Extras

• Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle the chai cream cheese glaze on top for added richness and flavor.
• Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts with the fluffy rolls.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a colorful fruit salad to balance the sweetness with fresh, tangy flavors.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side dish that pairs well with the rolls.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Creating the perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls requires some careful attention. With these tips, you can ensure your rolls turn out soft and flavorful every time.

• Use Warm Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients like milk and butter are warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for fluffy rolls.
• Let Dough Rise: Allow enough time for the dough to rise in a warm place; this creates light, airy rolls.
• Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar before making the glaze prevents lumps, giving you a smooth finish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for an extra kick of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness.
2. Greek Yogurt: A dollop on the side provides creaminess and balances sweetness with its tangy flavor.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein, making it a more filling breakfast option.
4. Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy roasted or seasoned potatoes create a satisfying contrast in texture.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl offers coolness and nutrition alongside your warm rolls.
6. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread brings healthy fats into your brunch spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be fun, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Using cold ingredients – Cold ingredients can hinder the dough’s ability to rise properly. Make sure all your dairy and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Too much or too little flour can affect the texture of your rolls. Use a kitchen scale or scoop and level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the second rise – The second rise is essential for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; let the dough rise until it has doubled in size for the best outcome.
• Overbaking – Overbaking can make your rolls dry. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time and remove them when they are lightly golden.
• Ignoring glaze consistency – The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. Adjust with powdered sugar or chai tea as needed to achieve the perfect drizzle.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Microwave individual rolls for 20-30 seconds on high, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?

Yes! Unsweetened almond milk works perfectly, but you can also use oat or soy milk.

How do I make my cinnamon rolls fluffier?

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and allow adequate rising time during both proofing stages.

Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead, refrigerate it overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning.

What if I don’t have chai spice blend?

You can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves for a similar flavor profile.

How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or fillings. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they bring warmth and comfort any time of year. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!