Pumpkin Rolls II: The Perfect Fall Baking Treat

There’s something magical about the aroma of Pumpkin Rolls II wafting through your home on a crisp autumn day. After a busy week, I found myself craving something comforting yet impressive enough to serve when my sister dropped by unexpectedly. That’s when I turned to this beloved Pumpkin Rolls II recipe that never disappoints. These soft, pillowy rolls infused with real pumpkin puree and warm spices strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to elevate your everyday bread basket, this easy homemade pumpkin rolls dessert alternative brings warmth to any meal.

Unlike typical dinner rolls, these Pumpkin Rolls II incorporate the nutritional benefits of pumpkin while delivering an incredibly moist texture that stays fresh for days. The vibrant orange hue alone makes them a showstopper on your table, but it’s the delicate balance of spices and the subtle sweetness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Rolls II

• ✅ Easy homemade pumpkin rolls dessert alternative ready in just a few hours with minimal hands-on time
• ✅ Perfect step by step pumpkin roll instructions even beginners can follow successfully
• ✅ Versatile enough for breakfast, dinner sides, or transformed into sweet treats
• ✅ The best spices for pumpkin roll recipe create an irresistible fall flavor profile
• ✅ Make-ahead friendly with excellent pumpkin roll storage and freezing methods
• ✅ Naturally vegetarian with simple adaptations for various dietary needs

Ingredients for Pumpkin Rolls II

For the Rolls:

• 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for richness)
• 1½ cups pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup white sugar
• ¼ cup butter, melted and cooled
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 (0.6 ounce) cake compressed fresh yeast (or 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast)
• 5 cups bread flour (plus extra for kneading)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for pumpkin roll with pecans and walnuts

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Note: For a gluten-free pumpkin roll variation, substitute the bread flour with a quality gluten-free 1:1 baking mix plus 1 tablespoon xanthan gum.

How to Make Pumpkin Rolls II – Step by Step

Step 1: Warm the milk in a small saucepan until it reaches about 110°F (43°C) – just warm to the touch but not hot. If using active dry yeast instead of fresh yeast, dissolve it in the warm milk with 1 teaspoon of the sugar and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until well incorporated.

Step 3: Add the milk mixture (with dissolved yeast if using active dry) to the pumpkin mixture and stir to combine.

Step 4: Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If using spices, add them with the first cup of flour.

Step 5: Once the dough becomes too stiff to mix with a spoon, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Place the dough in a large, lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 7: 

Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. If adding nuts, knead them in gently at this stage for pumpkin roll with pecans and walnuts.

Step 8: 

Divide the dough into 16 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by pulling the edges toward the center and pinching to seal.

Step 9: 

Place the shaped rolls on a greased baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Cover lightly and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy

Step 10:

 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the final 15 minutes of rising.

Step 11: 

Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown on top and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.

Step 12:

If using the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm (not hot) rolls.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Rolls II

• Perfect pumpkin roll baking time and temperature: The 375°F setting provides the ideal environment for these rolls to rise properly while developing a perfect golden crust. If your rolls are browning too quickly, tent them with foil.
• For extra flavor: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright citrus note that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Softer rolls: Brush the tops with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven for an extra tender crust.
• Can’t find fresh yeast? 1 cake (0.6 oz) of fresh yeast equals approximately 2¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast or 1¾ teaspoons of instant yeast.
• Moist pumpkin roll cake tips: Don’t overbake! These rolls continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.
• For shiny tops: Brush the rolls with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Rolls II

These versatile rolls shine in multiple settings, making them perfect for various festive pumpkin roll serving suggestions:

• Serve warm with cinnamon honey butter for a delightful breakfast or brunch option
• Include in your holiday bread basket for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner
• Transform into mini slider buns for leftover turkey sandwiches
• Split and toast with a spread of cream cheese filling for pumpkin rolls as a sweet treat
• Pair with hearty fall soups like butternut squash or beef stew

For a complete autumn meal, serve alongside our Roasted Vegetable Soup and finish with Apple Crisp for dessert.

Nutritional Information for Pumpkin Rolls II

Per serving (1 roll):

• Calories: 195 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 9mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Vitamin A: 3892IU (78% Daily Value)

These rolls provide excellent nutritional value compared to regular dinner rolls, with added vitamin A and fiber from the pumpkin puree.

Storage & Leftovers

Proper pumpkin roll storage and freezing methods will ensure you can enjoy these delicious rolls for days:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Refrigeration: Place in a sealed bag for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds.

Freezing: These Pumpkin Rolls II freeze beautifully! Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.

Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough through the first rise, then shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and complete the second rise before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin for Pumpkin Rolls II?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Can I make Pumpkin Rolls II without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes the process easier, these rolls can be mixed and kneaded by hand. Just ensure you knead the dough thoroughly for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Rolls II are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) indicates they’re fully baked.

Can I make a gluten-free version of Pumpkin Rolls II?

Yes! For gluten-free pumpkin roll variations, substitute the bread flour with a quality gluten-free 1:1 baking flour plus 1 tablespoon xanthan gum. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Rolls II are more than just bread – they’re a celebration of autumn flavors that bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday feast or enjoying them as an everyday treat, their beautiful color and delicate pumpkin flavor make them truly special. The step by step pumpkin roll instructions ensure success even for novice bakers.

Have you tried making these Pumpkin Rolls II? Share your experience in the comments below! Did you add any special spices or try a cream cheese filling for pumpkin rolls variation? We’d love to hear your creative twists on this fall favorite!

Happy baking!

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