Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. These rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings and also make a delightful dessert. The dough is filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices, while the chai cream cheese glaze adds an irresistible touch of comfort. Whether it’s a cozy fall morning or a holiday gathering, these cinnamon rolls will surely impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful rolls without stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cinnamon rolls are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, making them versatile for any meal.
• Comforting and Cozy: The warm spices and creamy glaze bring a sense of comfort, ideal for chilly days or festive celebrations.

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Tools and Preparation

To make these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a fluffy dough.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness for rolling out the dough, which is crucial for uniform baking.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients effectively without making a mess.

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 Your Dough

Begin by warming the almond milk in a small saucepan until it’s just warm to the touch but not boiling. Remove from heat and steep the black tea bags in the milk for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In your stand mixer bowl:
1. Add warm almond milk along with maple syrup.
2. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Gradually mix in both flours, chai spice blend, sea salt, and pumpkin spice blend until combined.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes until smooth. Gradually add melted butter and continue kneading until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Let it Rise

Cover your bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen:
1. Punch down the dough gently to release air.
2. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

Step 6: Add Filling

Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough:
1. Sprinkle brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend evenly on top.
2. Roll up tightly from one end to another to form a log.

Step 7: Cut into Rolls

Slice the log into equal pieces about 1½ inches wide. Arrange them in a greased baking sheet.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover again with a cloth and let them rise for another 20 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30–40 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 10: Make Glaze

While rolls bake:
1. In another bowl, combine softened cream cheese with powdered sugar.
2. Add cooled chai tea mixture gradually until smooth.

Step 11: Glaze Rolls

Once baked:
Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.

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

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and making them even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your cinnamon roll experience.

With a Cup of Chai Tea

• Pair your rolls with a steaming cup of chai tea to complement the warm spices in the rolls. The flavors of the tea enhance the experience.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• Add an extra drizzle of chai cream cheese glaze on top for an indulgent treat. It adds a creamy touch that makes each bite even more satisfying.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Serve your cinnamon rolls with a dollop of whipped cream. This light and airy topping adds sweetness and creaminess to each roll.

Sprinkled with Toasted Nuts

• For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top. The nuts not only provide texture but also a rich flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside seasonal fruits like sliced apples or pears. Their natural sweetness balances the richness of the rolls perfectly.

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 suggestions to ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Use quality ingredients: Opt for organic flour and pure maple syrup for the best flavor and texture. High-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.

• Let the dough rise properly: Allow ample time for the dough to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls.

• Keep the butter warm, not hot: When melting butter, ensure it’s warm enough to mix but not so hot that it cooks the eggs when combined. This prevents curdling.

• Sift your powdered sugar: Sifting helps achieve a smoother glaze consistency, making it easier to drizzle over your cinnamon rolls without lumps.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your breakfast or brunch spread. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts well with the rich cinnamon rolls.

3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweet flavors, making for a satisfying meal.

4. Crispy Bacon
   The salty crunch of crispy bacon pairs wonderfully with sweet cinnamon rolls, adding depth to your plate.

5. Hash Browns
   Golden, crispy hash browns offer a savory element that pairs nicely with sweet baked goods like these cinnamon rolls.

6. Maple Syrup Drizzle
   A small dish of maple syrup allows guests to add a touch more sweetness if desired, enhancing their overall experience.

7. Chai-Spiced Oatmeal
   A bowl of chai-spiced oatmeal can create a cohesive theme while providing additional warmth and comfort at breakfast.

8. Herbal Tea Selection
   Offering a selection of herbal teas lets guests choose their favorite beverage to sip alongside their delightful cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using the Wrong Flour: Not all flours are created equal. Using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour can lead to denser rolls. Stick to the recommended flours for the best texture.
• Ignoring Dough Temperature: If your dough is too hot or too cold, it won’t rise properly. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and that water is warm, not hot.
• Overfilling the Rolls: It’s tempting to add lots of filling, but overfilling can cause the rolls to burst during baking. Use just enough filling for a delightful taste without overflow.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing your dough to rest is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; let it rise adequately for the best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking requires precision. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right ingredient amounts.
• Underbaking or Overbaking: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. Overbaking will dry them out, while underbaking can leave them doughy. Aim for a golden-brown finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 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 until warm.
• Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts, around 20 seconds, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on low with a lid on, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk or heavy cream if you prefer a richer flavor.

How do I make my cinnamon rolls fluffier?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and allow adequate rising time for the dough before baking.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives.

What spices are best for homemade pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls?

A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves works wonderfully alongside pumpkin spice.

How do I store leftover pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls offer a cozy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their warm spices combined with pumpkin make them versatile enough for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize the glaze or filling according to your taste!