Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices, while the chai cream cheese glaze adds a unique twist that will comfort your soul. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging yourself on a cozy weekend, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm and inviting flavor that is perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can have these rolls rising and baking in no time!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for breakfast, as a sweet snack, or served at gatherings.
• Impressive Presentation: The swirl of filling and creamy glaze make these cinnamon rolls look as good as they taste.
• Comfort Food: These rolls are perfect for cozy mornings or festive occasions, bringing warmth to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Gathering everything before you start will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness in your dough for even baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides the right surface for baking your cinnamon rolls evenly.

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 1/2 cup almond milk in a saucepan until slightly warm. Remove from heat and add two black tea bags to infuse for about 10 minutes. Once infused:
1. Discard tea bags and stir in maple syrup and chai spice blend.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine both flours with yeast and salt.
3. Create a well in the center; pour in the almond milk mixture along with warm water.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Gradually mix until combined:
1. Add brown sugar, remaining almond milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
2. Knead dough on a floured surface until smooth.
3. Place dough into an oiled bowl; cover with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled in size.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Step 4: Add Filling

Spread softened butter evenly across the dough:
1. Sprinkle brown sugar over butter followed by Dessert Lover Blend.
2. Roll tightly from one long edge to form a cylinder.

Step 5: Cut & Bake

Slice into equal pieces:
1. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Allow to rise again for about 30 minutes before baking for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare Glaze

While rolls bake:
1. Beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Gradually add cooled chai mixture for desired consistency.

Step 7: Drizzle & Serve

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
2. Drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast or hosting a brunch. Here are some delightful ways to serve them.

Classic Breakfast Delight

• Serve warm with a drizzle of chai cream cheese glaze for a comforting start to your day.

Brunch Showstopper

• Pair with fresh fruits like sliced apples or pears to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy with a cup of spiced chai or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Dessert Option

• Top with whipped coconut cream and crushed nuts for a delightful end to any meal.

Gift Idea

• Wrap in parchment and tie with twine for a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting your homemade pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls is easy with a few simple tips. These will help you achieve the best flavor and texture every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bring eggs and milk to room temperature before mixing; this helps the dough rise better.
• Knead dough properly: Knead until smooth and elastic; this will create fluffy rolls that hold their shape.
• Let rise in a warm place: Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment; this makes it light and airy.
• Don’t skip the glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze adds richness; pour it generously over the rolls after baking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences; adding more or less can enhance flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These side dishes complement the sweet and spicy flavors of homemade pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls beautifully. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side.

3. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche filled with vegetables provides a hearty addition that contrasts well with the sweetness.

4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This healthy, creamy pudding can be flavored with vanilla or coconut, making it a great light side dish.

5. Herbed Cream Cheese Spread
   Serve alongside crackers or toasted bread for a savory bite that pairs nicely with sweet cinnamon rolls.

6. Maple Glazed Pecans
   Sweet and crunchy pecans offer an irresistible nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin spice perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving perfect results.

• Incorrect Yeast Activation: Not using warm water to activate the yeast can prevent your rolls from rising. Always ensure the water is warm, not hot.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Rushing through the dough’s resting period can result in dense rolls. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for a fluffy texture.
• Overfilling the Rolls: Adding too much filling can cause the rolls to spill out during baking. Use just enough filling to cover the dough without overloading it.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using imprecise measurements can lead to inconsistent results. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Ignoring Temperature Guidelines: Baking at incorrect temperatures can affect cooking time and texture. Preheat your oven and monitor it closely during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of rolls to prevent sticking.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Freeze unbaked rolls before proofing for up to 2 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 15-20 seconds per roll.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with plant-based milk and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

How do I make a dairy-free glaze?

You can replace cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use non-dairy milk for the glaze.

How long do these cinnamon rolls take to prepare?

The total time from start to finish is just over an hour, including prep and baking time.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips into the filling for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls offer a delicious blend of flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different spices or fillings, making them a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love every bite!