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, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch. With its inviting aroma and delightful flavors, these rolls are a comforting treat for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique taste that will impress everyone.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this scrumptious treat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a sweet addition to your brunch table.
• Perfect for Fall: These rolls capture the essence of autumn with their warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor.
• Great for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends and family; they make excellent gifts too!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, gather these essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Large bowls allow you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly, ensuring perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy sheet provides even heat distribution while baking your 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

Start by warming the almond milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Once warm but not boiling, remove it from heat and add the black tea bags. Let steep for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
* Whisk together the all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, rapid rise yeast, sea salt, chai spice blend, pumpkin spice blend, and brown sugar.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
* Combine the warmed almond milk mixture with pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
* Stir until a sticky dough forms. If needed, add more flour gradually until it becomes manageable.

Step 5: Knead and Rise

On a floured surface:
* Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a lightly greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise:
* Mix softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend in a small bowl until creamy.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Once risen:
* Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Step 8: Add Filling

Spread the filling mixture evenly across the rolled-out dough:
* Starting from one end, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.

Step 9: Cut Rolls

Using a sharp knife:
* Cut the log into equal pieces about 1-inch thick. Place them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 10: Second Rise

Cover rolls again:
* Let them rise for an additional 20 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 11: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown:
* Remove from oven and let cool slightly before glazing.

Step 12: Prepare Glaze

In another bowl:
* Beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gradually add cooled chai tea mixture until desired consistency is reached.

Step 13: Glaze Rolls

Drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon rolls before serving:

Enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a festive brunch. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cinnamon roll experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Add a side of mixed berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced rolls.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For those with a sweet tooth, drizzle additional chai cream cheese glaze over the top for an indulgent treat.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Pair these rolls with a steaming cup of chai or your favorite coffee blend to enhance their aromatic flavors.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin spice.

Served Warm

• Always serve these rolls warm for the best texture and taste—reheat briefly if they cool down.

Garnished with Whipped Coconut Cream

• For a dairy-free option, top with whipped coconut cream for a light and airy finish.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to achieve cinnamon roll perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for better dough consistency.

• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps create fluffy rolls.

• Check Yeast Freshness: Always use fresh yeast for optimal rise; expired yeast can lead to dense rolls.

• Let Dough Rise Fully: Allow the dough ample time to rise until doubled in size for light and airy rolls.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly to ensure precision in your measurements.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels according to your preference; more chai spice can enhance flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

To complement your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, consider serving them alongside these delicious side dishes. They add variety and make your meal even more enjoyable.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy and crunchy texture.

2. Savory Quiche: A slice of vegetable quiche provides a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the rolls.

3. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad adds freshness and brightness, making your breakfast feel complete.

4. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and richness, enhancing the meal’s overall nutrition.

5. Oven-Baked Bacon Alternatives: Serve turkey bacon or chicken sausage as a lean protein option that pairs well without overpowering the cinnamon rolls’ flavors.

6. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option adds fiber while being naturally sweetened, making it an excellent pairing with spiced rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Bold phrase: Using cold ingredients. Cold ingredients can hinder the dough from rising properly. Always ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing.
• Bold phrase: Overworking the dough. Over-kneading can result in tough rolls. Mix until just combined and allow the dough to rest for the best texture.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the proofing step. Proofing is essential for achieving fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this process; let the dough rise until it doubles in size.
• Bold phrase: Incorrect oven temperature. An unreliable oven can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.
• Bold phrase: Not measuring accurately. Baking is precise, so always measure ingredients correctly for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap to keep them fresh longer.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise; they can last up to 2 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 20-30 seconds on medium power, checking often.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan, covered, for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls vegan?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

What spices are included in a chai spice blend?

Chai spice blends typically include cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. Feel free to adjust based on your flavor preferences!

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, it’s best to use plain pumpkin puree as pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will alter the recipe’s balance.

How long do these cinnamon rolls last?

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls last about three days in the refrigerator or up to two months if frozen before baking.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a wonderful treat that combines cozy flavors with a delightful texture. This recipe allows for plenty of customization—try adding nuts or changing up the glaze for variety! Enjoy these delicious rolls at breakfast or as a sweet snack any time of day.