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Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are inspired by classic American yeast dough recipes but enhanced with seasonal pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The Pioneer Woman’s version maintains her signature rustic charm — simple, indulgent, and full of homemade warmth. The dough is tender and rich, the filling perfectly spiced, and the glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • Whole milk (1 cup, warm)

  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)

  • Active dry yeast (2¼ tsp or 1 packet)

  • Pumpkin puree (¾ cup, not pumpkin pie filling)

  • Melted butter (¼ cup)

  • Eggs (2 large)

  • All-purpose flour (4½ cups)

  • Salt (1 tsp)

  • Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)

  • Ground nutmeg (¼ tsp)

For the filling:

  • Brown sugar (¾ cup, packed)

  • Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp)

  • Ground nutmeg (¼ tsp)

  • Butter (¼ cup, softened)

For the glaze:

  • Powdered sugar (1 cup)

  • Maple syrup (2 tbsp)

  • Milk (1–2 tbsp, as needed for consistency)

  • Vanilla extract (½ tsp)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy — this means the yeast is active.

Step 2: Prepare the dough

Add pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let it rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the filling

Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll out and fill

Punch down the dough and roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it.

Step 6: Shape the rolls

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch pan.

Step 7: Second rise

Cover and let rise for another 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 9: Glaze and serve

Whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.