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, while the chai cream cheese glaze adds a touch of comfort to your day. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique taste that sets these rolls apart.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy success.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, weekend brunch, or a cozy night in, these rolls fit right in.
- Delightful Texture: Fluffy and soft, each bite melts in your mouth while delivering the warmth of spices.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your rolls with various toppings or enjoy them plain for a classic treat.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer makes kneading dough easy, but a mixing bowl works well too if you prefer to mix by hand.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly.
- Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown color.

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
For the Filling
- 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 Glaze
- 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. (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
Combine almond milk and tea bags in a small saucepan over low heat until warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and let steep for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together 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 on low speed until combined.
* Increase speed slightly for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Allow Dough to Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl:
* Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
* Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 30 minutes).
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
After rising:
1. Punch down dough on a floured surface.
2. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Continue with filling instructions as per your recipe guidelines!
How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Enjoying your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make these rolls even more enjoyable.
With a Hot Beverage
- Chai Tea – Pair the cinnamon rolls with a warm cup of chai tea for a comforting experience.
- Coffee – The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweet and spicy notes in the rolls perfectly.
- Apple Cider – Serve warm apple cider on the side to enhance the fall flavors.
Topped with Extras
- Cream Cheese Frosting – Drizzle some extra chai cream cheese frosting on top for a decadent touch.
- Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor contrast.
- Fresh Fruits – Add slices of bananas or apples for a refreshing accompaniment.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Fruit Salad – A colorful fruit salad balances the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits to create a delicious and healthy brunch option.
How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is easier with these helpful tips.
- Use Warm Ingredients – Ensure that your almond milk and butter are warm, not hot. This helps activate the yeast properly.
- Knead Well – Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This will ensure soft, fluffy rolls.
- Let It Rise – Allow enough time for the dough to rise. A warm, draft-free area is ideal for this process.
- Sift Your Flour – Sifting flour before measuring helps prevent any lumps, ensuring an even dough.
- Experiment with Spices – Don’t hesitate to adjust spices in the filling or glaze to suit your taste preferences.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Complementing your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.
- Breakfast Potatoes – Seasoned roasted or sautéed potatoes add a savory note that pairs well with sweet rolls.
- Smoothie Bowl – A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with fruits can be a light addition that contrasts nicely.
- Avocado Toast – Creamy avocado toast offers healthy fats and a creamy texture that complements cinnamon rolls.
- Granola Bars – Crunchy homemade granola bars can serve as a grab-and-go option alongside your rolls.
- Oatmeal with Nuts – A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts adds heartiness while still being light enough to enjoy sweets afterwards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience. However, a few common mistakes may hinder your baking success.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can prevent the dough from rising properly. Always use room temperature eggs and warm milk.
- Not letting the dough rise enough: Skipping the rising time can lead to dense rolls. Be patient and allow the dough to double in size as instructed.
- Adding too much flour: Adding excess flour makes the rolls dry. Measure flour accurately and add only enough until the dough is slightly sticky.
- Overbaking the rolls: Overbaking results in tough rolls. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they are golden brown.
- Skipping the glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze enhances flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step for maximum indulgence!

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 or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Warm individual rolls for 20-30 seconds for a quick treat.
- Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls unique?
These rolls combine pumpkin puree with warm chai spices, creating a cozy flavor perfect for fall.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel airy when gently pressed with your finger.
Can I use other types of milk?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almond milk with any other non-dairy or dairy milk of your choice.
What can I serve with Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?
These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or dried fruits to the filling or experimenting with different glazes. Try this recipe for a comforting treat that will surely impress family and friends!
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With soft, fluffy dough infused with warm spices and rich pumpkin puree, these cinnamon rolls are elevated by a creamy chai glaze that melts in your mouth. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, brunch, or as a decadent dessert, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to make and full of cozy autumn flavors, this recipe is a must-try for those seeking a sweet escape.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened
- 2 black tea bags (or chai tea)
- 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup
- 4 cups organic All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Artisan Bread flour
- 1 packet Rapid Rise Yeast (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.
- 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (NOT Pie filling!)
- 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
Instructions
- Warm almond milk with tea bags and steep for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, yeast, spices, salt, and brown sugar.
- Whisk together warm milk mixture with pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Mix wet ingredients into dry until combined; knead until smooth.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size (about 30 minutes).
- Roll out the dough and follow your filling instructions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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