Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. The delicious dough is filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Each roll is topped with a creamy chai glaze that adds a unique twist to the classic cinnamon roll. These delightful treats will fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and make any occasion extra special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh rolls in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm and inviting taste.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch gatherings, or a sweet afternoon snack.
• Comforting Aroma: Baking these rolls fills your home with a cozy smell that’s hard to resist.
• Impressive Presentation: These rolls look as good as they taste, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make these homemade pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls, you’ll need some essential tools handy. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients efficiently, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to create perfectly shaped cinnamon rolls.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your rolls to golden perfection.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, gather the following 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 saucepan over low heat, warm the almond milk until just lukewarm. Remove from heat and add in the tea bags to steep for about 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl, combine both flours, yeast, sea salt, and pumpkin spice blend.
3. In another bowl, mix together the warm almond milk mixture with maple syrup, brown sugar (½ cup), eggs, melted butter (6 Tbsps), and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add wet ingredients into dry ingredients until fully combined.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. Knead the dough on a floured surface or using your stand mixer with a dough hook for about 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth.
2. Place in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
3. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 30–45 minutes.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

Step 4: Add Filling and Shape Rolls

1. Spread softened butter over rolled-out dough followed by brown sugar mixture evenly across.
2. Roll up tightly from one side to another; slice into equal pieces.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

1. Place rolls onto parchment-lined baking sheets; cover again and let rise for another 20–30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare Glaze

1. While rolls bake, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth; then stir in cooled chai tea mixture until combined.

Step 7: Serve

1. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving and enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. These delightful rolls pair wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the rolls and the spices in the chai. Choose a smooth medium roast for a balanced taste.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serving sliced apples, pears, or berries on the side adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the cinnamon rolls.

Drizzle Extra Glaze

• For those who love a sweet touch, drizzle additional chai cream cheese glaze over each roll before serving for extra indulgence.

Include Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can make these cinnamon rolls feel even more decadent. Opt for a dairy-free version if desired.

Serve with Nut Butters

• Spread almond or peanut butter on warm rolls for a nutty twist. This adds protein and makes for a heartier meal.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of your rolls to add crunch and enhance the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Creating perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bring eggs and almond milk to room temperature for better dough consistency and rise.

• Knead thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, leading to fluffy rolls.

• Temperature matters: Ensure your butter is warm but not hot before mixing; this helps activate yeast properly without killing it.

• Don’t rush proofing: Allow enough time for the dough to rise in a warm environment; this is crucial for achieving that soft texture.

• Sift your flour: Sifting flour before measuring helps incorporate air, creating lighter rolls.

• Experiment with spices: Adjust chai spice blend and pumpkin spice levels according to your taste preferences for personalized flavor.

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 perfect for any occasion. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness. Try using melon, berries, and citrus.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy, crunchy addition that pairs well with sweet rolls.

3. Savory Oatmeal: Serve steel-cut oats topped with nuts and seeds as a healthy contrast to the sweet cinnamon rolls.

4. Chia Seed Pudding: This light dessert is filling yet refreshing, offering a great textural balance alongside the soft rolls.

5. Breakfast Smoothie: Blend spinach, banana, almond milk, and protein powder into a smoothie for a nutritious drink option.

6. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and fluffiness that complements the soft texture of cinnamon rolls.

7. Avocado Toast: The creaminess of avocado toast topped with fresh herbs offers a savory counterpart to sweet pastries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can prevent the dough from rising properly. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before using them.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the proofing step: Not allowing the dough to rise fully can result in heavy rolls. Be patient and let the dough double in size as directed.
• Overbaking the rolls: Keeping an eye on baking time is crucial. Remove them as soon as they are golden brown to ensure they’re soft and fluffy.
• Ignoring the glaze consistency: A too-thick or too-thin glaze can affect flavor. Adjust with additional chai tea or powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds. Add a damp paper towel for moisture.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

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

How do I make my cinnamon rolls vegan?

You can substitute almond milk with a plant-based milk alternative, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and replace butter with a vegan option.

What if my dough didn’t rise?

If your dough hasn’t risen, it may be due to old yeast or not enough warmth. Ensure your yeast is fresh and place your dough in a warm environment to encourage rising.

Can I make these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning.

How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts or dried fruits. Don’t hesitate to experiment and enjoy this comforting treat during any season!