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, and the chai cream cheese glaze is sure to fill your days with comfort! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls will impress your family and friends during any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique and delightful taste that warms the soul.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip these rolls up in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later; they make a great snack or dessert any time of day.
- Impressive Presentation: These cinnamon rolls look as good as they taste, making them perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
- Comfort Food Redefined: Indulge in a cozy treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without sacrificing quality.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delightful process of making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Saves time and energy by efficiently mixing ingredients to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
- Baking dish: Ensures even baking and helps create that irresistible golden-brown crust on your cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp.
- 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend
- 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. Remove it from heat and steep the black tea bags for about five minutes. Remove the tea bags and stir in the maple syrup.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a stand mixer bowl, combine all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar. Mix well until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together warmed almond milk mixture, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter (not hot), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Knead for about five minutes until smooth.
Step 5: Allow to Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about one hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, turn out on a floured surface. Roll into a rectangle approximately half an inch thick.
Step 7: Add Filling
Spread softened butter over the dough rectangle and sprinkle with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend evenly across the surface.
Step 8: Roll Up
Starting from one long side, carefully roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Cut into twelve equal pieces.
Step 9: Bake
Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Let them rise again for about thirty minutes before preheating your oven to bake at350°F (175°C) for around forty minutes or until golden brown.
Step 10: Prepare Glaze
While baking, beat together cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Gradually add cooled chai tea mixture until desired consistency is reached.
Step 11: Frost & Serve
Once baked rolls are cool enough to handle but still warm, drizzle chai glaze generously over top before serving. Enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls fresh!
How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
These 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 enhance your experience.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy a warm roll with freshly brewed coffee or chai tea for a comforting start to your day.
Top with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy treat that complements the spices.
Serve Warm with Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream melts beautifully over the warm rolls, making them even more indulgent.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Sliced apples, pears, or berries provide a fresh contrast to the sweet and spicy flavors of the rolls.
Drizzle with Maple Syrup
- A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness and adds another layer of flavor.
Garnish with Nuts
- Chopped pecans or walnuts offer a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the rolls.
How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Creating the perfect batch of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for delicious results every time.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising. Expired yeast can lead to dense rolls.
Warm Your Ingredients: Keep your almond milk and butter warm, not hot, when mixing. This helps activate the yeast effectively.
Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This builds gluten structure for fluffy rolls.
Allow Adequate Rising Time: Be patient during the rising phase. A warm, draft-free area helps achieve maximum volume in your dough.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the chai spice blend according to taste preferences; more spice can intensify flavor.
Cool Glaze Before Serving: Allow your chai cream cheese glaze to cool slightly before drizzling on warm rolls; this ensures it adheres perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Complement your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:
Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances flavor and adds brightness to your meal.Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy contrast that pairs well with cinnamon rolls.Savory Breakfast Hash
A mix of potatoes, bell peppers, and onions provides a hearty balance to the sweetness of the rolls.Oven-Baked Eggs
Fluffy eggs baked in a dish add protein and richness without overpowering the dessert-like quality of the rolls.Smoothie Bowl
A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds offers a healthy option alongside sweet treats.Cheese Platter
Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory element that complements sweet flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder yeast activation. Always ensure your liquids and eggs are at room temperature for optimal results.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your rolls dense. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately.
- Ignoring dough rise time: Skipping or rushing the rise time will result in flat rolls. Be patient and let the dough rise until it doubles in size.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Baking for too long or too short affects texture. Keep an eye on them and test with a toothpick for doneness.
- Skipping the glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step for the best taste experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 20-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you while making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls.
Can I make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, then shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight before baking.
What can I substitute for almond milk?
You can use whole milk or any other non-dairy milk such as oat or soy milk as alternatives.
How do I store my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
How do I customize my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?
Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or different spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor profile!
Final Thoughts
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Their rich flavors and fluffy texture make them irresistible! Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or toppings, ensuring every batch is uniquely yours!
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls! These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a delightful blend of pumpkin and aromatic chai spices, then drizzled with a creamy chai glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat, they promise to impress your family and friends at any gathering. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create these delicious rolls in just over an hour. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later—either way, they’re sure to become a beloved favorite!
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 black tea bags
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 4 cups organic all-purpose flour
- 2 cups artisan bread flour
- 1 packet rapid rise yeast
- 1–2 teaspoons pumpkin spice blend
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar + 1 tablespoon
- 1 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk, room temperature
- 1 cup organic pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled until warm
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon Dessert Lover Blend
- 3 cups organic powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 oz organic cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 3–4 tablespoons cooled chai tea mixture
Instructions
- Warm almond milk in a saucepan; steep black tea bags for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and stir in maple syrup.
- In a stand mixer bowl, mix all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar.
- Whisk together warmed almond milk mixture, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter (not hot), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until soft dough forms; knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle; spread softened butter over it and sprinkle with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend.
- Roll tightly into a log shape and cut into 12 equal pieces; place in a greased baking dish.
- Allow rolls to rise for 30 minutes before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.
- Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth; add cooled chai tea mixture to achieve desired consistency for glaze.
- Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (90g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Use fresh yeast for optimal rising results. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. Feel free to customize the spice blend to suit your taste preferences.
