Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe offers the perfect blend of fall flavors and cozy aromas. These rolls are not just delicious; they are versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The savory pumpkin filling paired with warm chai spices creates a unique treat that will delight your taste buds and fill your home with comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique flavor profile that stands out.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, brunch with friends, or a cozy family breakfast, these cinnamon rolls fit right in.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and common ingredients, you can whip these up without any fuss.
• Warm and Comforting: Freshly baked rolls topped with chai cream cheese glaze provide the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 rolls, making it easy to share with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having everything ready will make baking enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect dough thickness for rolling out your cinnamon rolls.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring all rolls cook uniformly.

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 Chai Cream Cheese 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

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine warm almond milk and maple syrup.
2. Add black tea bags; steep for about 5 minutes before removing them.
3. Mix in rapid rise yeast and let it sit until frothy.

In another bowl:
4. Combine flours, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar.
5. Gradually add the yeast mixture along with eggs and melted butter to form a dough.
6. Knead until smooth; let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough rises:
1. In a bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend until creamy.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen:
1. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle.
2. Spread filling evenly over rolled dough.
3. Roll tightly from one end to form a log; cut into equal pieces.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C):
1. Place cut rolls on lined baking sheet.
2. Let them rise again for about 15–20 minutes.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar.
2. Stir in cooled chai tea mixture until well combined.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon rolls before serving for maximum indulgence! Enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can elevate the experience and make them even more enjoyable. Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast or a festive brunch, here are some delightful ways to present these delicious rolls.

With a Hot Beverage

• Chai Tea: Pair these rolls with a comforting cup of chai tea to enhance the warm spices.
• Coffee: A rich coffee complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls beautifully.
• Almond Milk Latte: For a dairy-free option, try an almond milk latte for a creamy touch.

Topped with Extra Glaze

• Chai Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle more of the chai cream cheese glaze on top for an indulgent finish.
• Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds extra sweetness and flavor.

Garnished with Nuts

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Walnuts: Crushed walnuts can provide a hearty texture that pairs well with the soft rolls.

Served Warm

• Fresh from the Oven: Enjoy them warm right out of the oven for the best taste and texture.
• Reheat Before Serving: If made ahead, reheat in the oven or microwave to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and almond milk are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps create fluffy rolls.
• Don’t Rush Rising Time: Allow enough time for the dough to rise properly. This step is essential for fluffy rolls.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for baking.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and freshness to balance the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the soft texture of cinnamon rolls.
3. Savory Quiche: A light vegetable quiche adds protein and makes for a filling brunch alongside sweet rolls.
4. Oven-Baked Eggs: Fluffy baked eggs seasoned with herbs create a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet flavors.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on crusty bread offers healthy fats and balances out the sweetness of your cinnamon rolls.
6. Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts brings crunch and warmth, enhancing the overall experience at your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can hinder the dough’s rise. Always use room temperature ingredients for better results.
• Skipping the proofing step: Not allowing the dough to rise properly can make your rolls dense. Give it time to double in size for a fluffier texture.
• Overfilling with filling: Adding too much filling can cause a mess when rolling and baking. Stick to a moderate amount for easy handling.
• Not sifting flour: Unsifted flour can lead to clumps and uneven texture. Always sift your flour for a light and airy dough.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Freeze unbaked rolls before they rise, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
• These can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat rolls for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls:

Can I use other types of milk?

Yes, you can substitute unsweetened almond milk with whole milk or any plant-based milk of your choice.

What if I don’t have chai spice blend?

You can create your own by mixing cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves or simply use chai tea bags.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter instead of dairy butter.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your rolls by adding walnuts or raisins into the filling for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can adjust the spices or fillings based on your preferences. Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, these rolls are sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!