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, and the chai cream cheese glaze is sure to fill your days with comfort! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a warm and comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: With just over an hour needed from start to finish, you can whip up a batch of these cinnamon rolls with minimal effort.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet dessert. They’re great for gatherings or cozy family mornings.
- Deliciously Decadent Glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making each bite even more indulgent.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect dough thickness for evenly rolled cinnamon rolls.
- Baking dish: Provides even heat distribution while baking for fluffy rolls.

Ingredients
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!
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 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
Combine almond milk and black tea in a small saucepan over low heat until warm. Remove from heat and add maple syrup and chai spice blend. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, rapid rise yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cooled almond milk mixture until smooth.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture gradually. Stir until combined. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×18 inches.
Step 7: Add Filling
Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend evenly on top.
Step 8: Roll and Slice
Starting from one edge of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Cut into equal pieces with a sharp knife or dental floss.
Step 9: Bake
Place sliced rolls into a greased baking dish. Cover again to let them rise for another 20 minutes before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 10: Make Glaze
While baking, mix powdered sugar with softened cream cheese and cooled chai tea mixture until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
With these steps completed perfectly, you’ll have delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls ready to delight everyone at your table!
How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are truly delightful and can be served in various ways to enhance your experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your breakfast or brunch even more special.
With a Hot Beverage
- Chai Latte: Pair your rolls with a warm chai latte for a comforting drink that complements the spices in the rolls.
- Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices add a crisp texture and brighten up the dish.
- Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries will provide a tangy contrast to the sweet rolls.
Drizzled with Additional Glaze
- Extra Chai Glaze: Drizzle a bit more of the chai cream cheese glaze on top for an added layer of flavor.
- Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness and adds depth.
Served Warm
- Fresh from the Oven: These rolls are best served warm, right out of the oven, ensuring they are soft and fluffy.
How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Creating perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some key tips to elevate your baking game.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that eggs and milk are at room temperature helps the dough rise better and creates a fluffier texture.
- Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, which gives your rolls their structure.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Allowing the dough ample time to rise is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture. Be patient!
- Monitor Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. An oven thermometer can help maintain accuracy for perfect baking results.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
To round out your meal, consider pairing these delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the rolls. Use seasonal fruits for variety.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying side that adds creaminess and crunch.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of vegetable quiche brings savory flavors to your meal, complementing the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit provides a hearty accompaniment that’s also nutritious.
- Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with seeds or nuts for added texture.
- Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs add protein and create a well-rounded breakfast spread.
- Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer a crunchy contrast while remaining portable if you’re on-the-go.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses alongside crackers for a delightful contrast to the sweet flavors of pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Ignoring the dough temperature: If your dough is too hot or cold, it can affect rising. Always ensure your ingredients, especially butter and milk, are at room temperature.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can create tough rolls. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
- Not letting the dough rise properly: If you rush the rising process, your rolls won’t be fluffy. Allow adequate time for both rises to achieve that perfect texture.
- Using incorrect measurements: Baking is a science. Be precise with your ingredient measurements for the best results.
- Skipping the glaze: The chai cream cheese glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your rolls!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For best flavor, reheat individual portions as needed.
Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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 on medium power for 20-30 seconds per roll, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls:
Can I make these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls vegan?
Yes! You can substitute almond milk with any plant-based milk and use a vegan butter alternative.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel puffy to the touch. A good test is pressing your finger into it; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.
What spices are included in the chai spice blend?
Common spices include cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. You can adjust based on your preference.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, use pure pumpkin puree as pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices which could alter the flavor of your rolls.
How can I customize my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?
Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit into the filling or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences!
Final Thoughts
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful mix of flavors that are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Their warm spices and creamy glaze make them versatile enough for any occasion. Customize them with nuts or different spices to suit your taste! Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try today!
Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls. This delightful recipe combines the rich essence of pumpkin with aromatic chai spices, all drizzled with a creamy chai glaze that elevates each bite to pure bliss. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike. With a preparation time of just over an hour, you can enjoy this decadent dessert without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened
- 2 black tea bags
- 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup
- 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
- 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 and black tea in a saucepan; add maple syrup and chai spice blend. Let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar.
- Combine wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cooled milk mixture.
- Gradually add wet to dry ingredients; knead until smooth.
- Let dough rise in a greased bowl for about 30 minutes until doubled.
- Roll out dough into a rectangle; spread with softened butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend.
- Roll tightly into a log; cut into equal pieces.
- Place rolls in a greased baking dish; let rise for another 20 minutes before baking at 350°F for about 40 minutes or golden brown.
- Mix powdered sugar with softened cream cheese and cooled chai mixture for glaze; drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (80g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
