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, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With its unique chai cream cheese glaze, these rolls will surely fill your days with comfort and joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices and pumpkin create a cozy flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: This recipe offers straightforward steps that even beginner bakers can follow.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet dessert option during gatherings.
• Comforting Aroma: The smell of baking cinnamon rolls fills your home with warmth and nostalgia.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: Each roll is fluffy and tender, thanks to the careful mixing and rising processes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls effortlessly, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect dough thickness for rolling.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the rolls to perfection.

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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 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 until it’s just warm to touch. Steep two black tea bags in it for about five minutes to infuse the chai flavors.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine both flours with rapid rise yeast, sea salt, pumpkin spice blend, and brown sugar.
2. Whisk together to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the warm almond tea mixture with eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients:
1. Stir until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Step 5: Let Dough Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl:
1. Cover it with a kitchen towel.
2. Let rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

As the dough rises:
1. In a separate bowl, combine softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend until smooth.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Once risen:
1. Roll out dough onto a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
2. Spread filling evenly across the surface.

Step 8: Roll and Cut

Starting from one edge:
1. Roll dough tightly into a log.
2. Slice into equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 9: Bake Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C):
1. Place rolls on parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Make Glaze

While rolls bake:
1. Beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl.
2. Add cooled chai tea mixture gradually until smooth.

Step 11: Drizzle Glaze

Once rolls are baked:
1. Allow them to cool slightly before drizzling glaze on top.
Enjoy your delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Serving these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. They are perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful treat on a chilly day.

With a Warm Beverage

• Chai Latte: Pair your rolls with a steaming chai latte to enhance the warm spices.
• Coffee: A rich cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls perfectly.
• Herbal Tea: Choose a soothing herbal tea to balance the flavors and provide relaxation.

Topped with Extras

• Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle over the rolls for a rich, creamy finish that adds depth.
• Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness and adds extra flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfait: Pair with yogurt layered with granola and berries for a balanced meal.
• Savory Dishes: Include scrambled eggs or veggie frittata to create a well-rounded brunch.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spicy flavors.

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and contrasts nicely with the rich cinnamon flavors.
3. Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits provides a hearty addition to your meal.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a refreshing side that pairs well with sweet pastries.
5. Vegetable Frittata: This savory dish complements the sweetness while adding more nutrients to your meal.
6. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole grain bread offers healthy fats and balances flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour: Not all flours behave the same way. Using bread flour instead of all-purpose can lead to a denser roll.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring dough rise times: Rushing the rising process can result in flat rolls. Allow time for the dough to rise properly for fluffy results.
• Overbaking the rolls: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake. Overbaking can dry them out and lose their fluffy texture.
• Skipping the glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it; it adds a delightful finish to your rolls.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm rolls for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet with a lid over low heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my dough rise faster?

To speed up rising, place your dough in a warm environment, like an oven preheated to the lowest setting and then turned off.

Can I use different types of milk?

Yes! While almond milk is great, you can substitute it with whole milk or any other non-dairy milk based on your preference.

What can I use instead of eggs?

You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or applesauce for moisture.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use non-dairy milk and egg replacers as mentioned above.

How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them if you want them to last longer.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also offer versatility that fits any occasion. You can customize them by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even swapping spices based on your taste. Give this recipe a try, and fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of fall!