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 will impress your family and friends during any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy fall morning or a holiday gathering, these rolls are sure to be a hit!
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the milk or add extra spices based on your personal taste preferences.
- Decadent Glaze: The creamy chai glaze adds an indulgent finishing touch that elevates each bite.

Tools and Preparation
To make the Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, gather all necessary tools before starting. This will streamline your baking process and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Rolling pin: Helps you achieve an even dough thickness for perfect rolls.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cinnamon rolls evenly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
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
Start by warming the almond milk in a saucepan until it’s just warm to touch. Remove from heat and steep the black tea bags for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
Whisk together the flours, yeast, sea salt, and spices.
In another bowl, mix the warm almond milk with maple syrup and pumpkin puree until smooth.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Gradually combine wet ingredients into dry ingredients:
Knead with your hands or use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until smooth.
Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled in size.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
After rising:
Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
Step 5: Add Filling
Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough:
Sprinkle brown sugar evenly across.
Add Dessert Lover Blend and pumpkin spice blend.
Step 6: Roll & Cut
Tightly roll up the dough from one end:
Cut into equal pieces about 1.5 inches thick.
Place on prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover rolls again with a damp cloth:
Allow them to rise for another 20 minutes until puffy.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C):
Bake rolls for about 30–40 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Make the Glaze
While they bake:
Beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar in a separate bowl.
Gradually add cooled chai mixture until smooth.
Step 10: Serve
Once baked:
Drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon rolls before serving. Enjoy your delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls!
How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Serving your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them:
Pair with a Hot Beverage
- Chai Tea: Enhance the chai flavors by sipping on a warm cup of chai tea.
- Coffee: A robust cup of coffee complements the sweetness and spices in the rolls.
- Cocoa: For a cozy twist, enjoy these rolls with a rich hot chocolate.
Add Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Apples: Crisp apples add a refreshing crunch that balances the softness of the rolls.
- Berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a tart contrast to the sweet cinnamon rolls.
- Bananas: Sliced bananas offer a creamy texture that’s perfect with warm rolls.
Serve with Toppings
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an indulgent touch.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Achieving the perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls involves attention to detail. Here are some tips for success:
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for better dough consistency.
- Knead properly: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, which helps create fluffy rolls.
- Let dough rise adequately: Allow ample time for the dough to rise, ensuring it doubles in size for lightness.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the right temperature; this affects cooking time and texture.
- Sift powdered sugar: Sifting prevents lumps in your chai cream cheese glaze, giving it a velvety finish.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance your enjoyment of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls. Consider these delicious options:
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a healthy contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your plate.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, making your brunch more satisfying.
- Breakfast Sausages: Savory breakfast sausages pair well with sweet rolls for a complete meal.
- Avocado Toast: The creaminess of avocado toast balances the sweetness of cinnamon rolls beautifully.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl offers nutrients and pairs nicely with sweet treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, a few common mistakes can hinder your baking success. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can slow yeast activation. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before starting.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Skipping the rise time: Rushing the dough’s rise will result in denser rolls. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for light and fluffy results.
- Overbaking: If you bake them too long, you risk a dry texture. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
- Ignoring glaze consistency: A glaze that is too thick or thin won’t adhere properly. Aim for a smooth, pourable texture for even coverage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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- Containers: Use an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
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- Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
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- Containers: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.
Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls:
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular whole milk or heavy cream if you prefer.
How do I make these rolls vegan?
To make your Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream cheese.
What spices are best for chai flavor?
A blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves works well to create that warm chai taste in your rolls.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before rolling and baking it the next day.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they can be customized with various spices or glazes. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth and flavor of Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This recipe combines the rich essence of pumpkin with aromatic chai spices and is topped with a creamy chai glaze that will surely impress your family and friends. Ready in just over an hour, these soft and fluffy rolls not only bring comfort to your table but also infuse your home with a cozy fall scent. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or saved for later, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to be a favorite on any occasion.
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
- 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 steep black tea bags.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk flours, yeast, salt, and spices; combine warm milk with maple syrup and pumpkin until smooth.
- Gradually mix wet into dry ingredients; knead until smooth.
- Roll dough into a rectangle, spread butter, sprinkle sugar and spice blends.
- Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and let rise again.
- Bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the glaze while baking; drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for optimal dough consistency. Feel free to customize spice levels or add nuts to the filling for extra texture.