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, and the chai cream cheese glaze is sure to fill your days with comfort! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls will impress family and friends at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique taste that stands out.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful rolls.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat at gatherings.
• Comforting Warmth: The warm spices and creamy glaze make these rolls perfect for cozy mornings.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing dough; it ensures an even consistency.
• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the dough evenly for uniform cinnamon rolls.
• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning.

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!)

For the Filling

• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp.
• 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend

For the Chai Cream Cheese 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

Begin by warming the almond milk in a saucepan until it’s lukewarm. Combine it with the black tea bags in a mixing bowl and let steep for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer:
1. Add the warm almond milk mixture.
2. Stir in maple syrup and chai spice blend.
3. Gradually mix in both types of flour along with yeast and salt.

Step 3: Knead Dough

Knead the dough by hand or with your stand mixer on medium speed until smooth. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 4: Let Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—approximately 30 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

While dough rises:
1. In another bowl, combine brown sugar with softened butter and Dessert Lover Blend until mixed well.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough on a floured surface:
1. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
2. Spread filling evenly over the surface.

Step 7: Form Rolls

Starting from one edge:
1. Roll tightly to form a log.
2. Cut into equal pieces about two inches wide.

Step 8: Second Rise

Place cut rolls in a greased baking dish:
1. Cover with cloth again.
2. Let rise for another 20 minutes.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C):
1. Bake rolls for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 10: Prepare Glaze

While rolls are baking:
1. In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar until fluffy.
2. Gradually mix in cooled Chai tea mixture until smooth.

Step 11: Glaze Rolls

Once baked:
1. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
Enjoy your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Chai Tea Latte

• A warm chai tea latte complements the cinnamon rolls beautifully. The spices in both will enhance each other and create a cozy atmosphere.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle pure maple syrup over the rolls. This adds a lovely caramel flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve the cinnamon rolls with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or berries. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the rolls.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and creaminess that enhances every bite. Consider using coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free option.

Served Warm

• Always serve these rolls warm for the best texture and flavor. Reheat briefly in the oven if they’ve cooled down too much.

With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• For an indulgent dessert, pair these cinnamon rolls with vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm rolls for a delightful treat!

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise. Expired yeast can lead to dense rolls.
• Incorporate Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and milk to room temperature before using them in your dough. This helps achieve a better texture.
• Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, giving your rolls their fluffy structure.
• Let Dough Rise Properly: Don’t rush the rising process! Allowing the dough ample time to rise will result in light and airy rolls.
• Preheat Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the rolls. This ensures even cooking throughout.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cinnamon rolls while they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for golden-brown tops for doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can elevate the meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.
2. Savory Breakfast Casserole: A hearty breakfast casserole made with eggs and vegetables complements the sweetness of cinnamon rolls beautifully.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings freshness to the table and balances out the rich flavors of pumpkin spice.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and flavor, making them an excellent snack alongside your sweet treat.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl filled with greens and fruits provides a nutritious balance that pairs well with cinnamon goodness.
6. Herbed Scones: Savory herbed scones offer a delightful contrast in flavor while enhancing your brunch spread’s variety.
7. Cheese Platter: Including cheese options like brie or goat cheese adds richness that balances out the sweetness of your cinnamon rolls.
8. Vegetable Frittata: A vegetable frittata provides protein and nutrients, making it an excellent choice alongside sweet baked goods like these rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes ensures your rolls turn out perfectly.

• Bold Measurement Errors: Always measure ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little flour can affect the dough’s texture.
• Bold Skipping the Rise Time: Allow the dough to rise as directed. Skipping this step will lead to dense rolls rather than fluffy ones.
• Bold Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activation.
• Bold Overbaking the Rolls: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking. Overbaking can dry them out, so remove them from the oven when they’re golden brown.
• Bold Not Sifting Powdered Sugar: Sift your powdered sugar for the glaze. This prevents clumps and ensures a smooth consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for 15-20 seconds; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan with a lid over low heat for a few minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

You can absolutely use whole milk or heavy cream instead of almond milk for a richer flavor.

How do I make my rolls more flavorful?

Adding extra chai spice blend or pumpkin spice enhances the flavor of your rolls significantly.

Can I prepare these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge before baking them fresh in the morning.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?

You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or simply use a mix of powdered sugar and almond milk for a simpler glaze.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size; you can test by gently pressing your finger into it—if it holds its shape, it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not just tasty; they fill your home with warmth and comfort. They’re versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Feel free to customize with different spices or toppings according to your preferences!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a dough infused with creamy pumpkin puree and aromatic chai spices, these rolls offer a unique flavor profile that will impress your family and friends. Topped with a luscious chai cream cheese glaze, they are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent dessert. Bake them fresh to fill your home with comforting aromas that evoke the essence of fall. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or reheated throughout the week, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened
• 2 black tea bags
• 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp chai spice blend
• 4 cups organic All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Artisan Bread flour
• 1 packet Rapid Rise Yeast
• 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.
• 1 cup organic pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs, room temp.
• 6 Tbsps unsalted butter, melted + cooled until warm
• 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.
• 3–4 Tbsps cooled Chai tea mixture

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Instructions

1. Warm almond milk and steep black tea bags for 5 minutes.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine warm almond milk mixture with maple syrup and chai spice blend.
3. Gradually mix in flours, yeast, and salt until well combined.
4. Knead dough until smooth (about 5–7 minutes), then let it rise in a greased bowl until doubled (30 minutes).
5. Prepare filling by mixing softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend.
6. Roll out risen dough into a rectangle and spread filling evenly over it.
7. Roll tightly, cut into pieces, then place in a greased baking dish to rise again (20 minutes).
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
9. While baking, prepare glaze by mixing cream cheese with powdered sugar and cooled chai mixture until smooth.
10. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 40mg