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 a cozy dessert after dinner, these cinnamon rolls bring the flavors of fall right to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: These rolls combine pumpkin and chai spices for a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for chilly mornings.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cinnamon rolls without any fuss.
- Versatile Treat: Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a weekend treat, these rolls fit perfectly into any occasion.
- Decadent Glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze adds an extra layer of richness that makes each bite unforgettable.
- Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing like the aroma of fresh-baked cinnamon rolls filling your home.

Tools and Preparation
To create these delightful Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer makes it easier to knead dough quickly and efficiently, while a bowl works well for manual mixing.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly, ensuring perfect cinnamon rolls every time.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking multiple rolls at once.
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
Start by warming the almond milk in a small saucepan. Once warm but not boiling, remove it from heat and steep the tea bags in it for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl:
1. Combine flour blends with yeast, salt, brown sugar, and pumpkin spice blend.
2. Whisk together until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the warmed almond milk mixture with pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients:
Mix until combined.
Knead until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl:
Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
Let rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare Filling
While dough rises:
In another bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend until smooth.
Continue following these steps to finish making your delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!
How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Serving your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can elevate the experience, making it even more delightful. Here are some serving suggestions to try out.
For Breakfast
- Pair with a hot cup of chai tea or coffee for a cozy morning treat.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, to balance the sweetness.
For Brunch
- Arrange rolls on a decorative platter with a drizzle of chai glaze for a stunning presentation.
- Accompany with yogurt and granola for added texture and flavor.
As Dessert
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.
- Serve warm, allowing the glaze to melt slightly over the rolls for a gooey finish.
With Seasonal Decor
- Add festive touches like cinnamon sticks or mini pumpkins around the serving dish for a seasonal vibe.
- Use autumn-themed plates or napkins to enhance the fall aesthetic.
How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Perfecting your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to make your rolls fluffier and more flavorful.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and almond milk are at room temperature; this helps the dough rise better.
- Knead properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which helps create that fluffy texture.
- Don’t rush rising time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until doubled in size; this is crucial for light rolls.
- Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale if possible to ensure you’re using precise amounts of flour and sugar.
- Experiment with spices: Adjust the chai spice blend according to your taste; adding extra can enhance flavor complexity.
- Serve warm: The rolls are best served warm right out of the oven, bringing out their soft texture and rich flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy texture contrast.
- Maple Bacon Strips: The salty-sweet combination pairs perfectly with cinnamon rolls.
- Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Rich eggs provide protein that complements the sweet rolls well.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and additional flavors that harmonize with chai spices.
- Herbed Tea Sandwiches: Light sandwiches made with cream cheese and herbs can balance out sweetness while adding variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common errors to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature for better dough consistency.
- Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until smooth to keep the rolls fluffy; too much kneading can make them dense.
- Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for soft, airy rolls. Be patient!
- Not measuring accurately: Use precise measurements, especially for flour and yeast, to ensure the right texture.
- Ignoring the glaze: A delicious chai cream cheese glaze enhances the flavor; don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Freeze unbaked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they last up to 2 months.
- Baked rolls can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one roll at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes, checking regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls.
How do I make my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding extra spices or incorporating nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes! Substitute almond milk with any plant-based milk and replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce.
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Always opt for organic pumpkin puree; avoid using pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugar and spices.
How long does it take to prepare Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?
The total time is about 60 minutes, including preparation and baking.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect treat for breakfast or brunch. Their comforting flavors and warm spices will surely delight your taste buds. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts or experimenting with different glazes. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite!
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These fluffy rolls combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and aromatic chai spices, all crowned with a creamy chai glaze that adds an unforgettable touch. Ready in just over an hour, they are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy dessert after dinner. The inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls will fill your home, making it hard to resist enjoying them warm from the oven.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened
- 2 black tea bags, premium
- 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 (for filling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp. (for filling)
- 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend (for filling)
- 3 cups organic powdered sugar, sifted (for glaze)
- 4 oz. organic cream cheese, softened at room temp. (for glaze)
- 3–4 Tbsps cooled Chai tea mixture (for glaze)
Instructions
- Warm almond milk in a saucepan and steep the tea bags for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, salt, brown sugar, and pumpkin spice blend.
- Whisk together wet ingredients: steeped almond milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Mix wet into dry ingredients until combined; knead until smooth.
- Let dough rise in a greased bowl until doubled (about 30 minutes).
- Prepare the filling by mixing softened butter with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend.
- Roll out dough, spread filling, roll tightly and slice into rolls.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Drizzle with chai glaze before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (80g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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