Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Your 30-Minute Fall Breakfast Obsession

Welcome to a world where gourmet breakfast dreams meet lightning-fast preparation! These Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a true revelation, promising soft, fluffy, and perfectly spiced pumpkin pie flavors, all finished with an irresistibly creamy pumpkin glaze. The best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes, including bake time! Prepare to make these your go-to fall treat.

Beautifully golden-brown Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls drizzled with a creamy pumpkin glaze, ready to be enjoyed. — Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of our Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect blend of sweet and spice for any autumn morning.

Chelsea Lords, author and creator of this pumpkin cinnamon roll recipe

From the Author’s Kitchen

My Pumpkin Roll Confession… You Won’t Believe How Easy These Are!

Yes, I’m serious! These pumpkin cinnamon rolls truly possess a touch of magic. Imagine a warm, gooey batch of cinnamon rolls on your table, from start to finish, in just 30 minutes. It might sound too good to be true, but I promise you, it’s not a trick! This recipe delivers on its promise of speed and sensational flavor.

Now, this might be a little controversial among baking enthusiasts, but I have to confess: I think I enjoy these even more than traditional homemade cinnamon rolls that require hours of proofing. Please, don’t come for me! My adoration stems from their sheer simplicity and unbelievably delicious outcome. There’s no lengthy proofing involved, and the results are honestly just ridiculously good. I already find myself making my Hawaiian roll cinnamon rolls far more often than the from-scratch versions, and now that I’ve perfected a pumpkin-infused variation, I’m confident my fall mornings are gloriously set for the foreseeable future!

These magic pumpkin cinnamon rolls are the ultimate dream for a fall breakfast or a delightful sweet treat. Once you’ve experienced their effortless charm and incredible taste, you simply must tell me: are you joining Team Shortcut Rolls or do you remain steadfastly on Team Homemade? I’m eager to hear your thoughts!

Why These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are an Absolute Must-Try

Unbelievably Fast: Go from zero to delicious in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute cravings.
Effortless Preparation: By using Hawaiian sweet rolls as a base, you completely skip the time-consuming dough-making and proofing process.
Irresistible Fall Flavors: Every bite is packed with warm cinnamon, aromatic pumpkin pie spice, and rich pumpkin puree, topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze.
Soft & Gooey Texture: The beauty of Hawaiian rolls is their inherent softness, which transforms into the most delightful gooey texture when baked with our rich filling.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a sweet treat to share with friends, these rolls are always a hit.

All the essential ingredients for Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls laid out: Hawaiian rolls, softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, salt, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and canned pumpkin. — *Note: While there might be milk pictured in some ingredient layouts, this specific recipe does **not** contain any milk.*

Essential Ingredients for Your Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Crafting these delectable pumpkin cinnamon rolls requires a handful of common pantry staples, each playing a crucial role in achieving that signature “magic.” Pay close attention to the quality and preparation of each for the best results:

Ingredient	Expert Tip for Best Results
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls	The cornerstone of this shortcut recipe! For easy and even filling distribution, carefully slice the entire slab of rolls horizontally in half, ensuring they remain connected at the edges. This creates two large canvases for your delicious pumpkin spice mixture.
Unsalted Butter	Crucial for both the rich filling and the creamy glaze. Always use softened butter, not melted. Softened butter blends seamlessly into the filling, creating a smooth, spreadable consistency, and ensures the glaze achieves its thick, luxurious texture without becoming too runny. Room temperature butter (about an hour out of the fridge) is ideal.
Brown Sugar & Pure Pumpkin Purée	For the perfect sweetness and authentic pumpkin flavor, make sure your brown sugar is soft and well-packed when measuring. Equally important, use pure pumpkin purée (100% pumpkin) and strictly avoid pumpkin pie filling or any pre-spiced blends, which contain added sugars and spices that will alter the intended flavor profile of our rolls.
Ground Cinnamon, Pumpkin Pie Spice & Salt	These spices are the heart of the pumpkin flavor profile. For the most vibrant and aromatic rolls, ensure your spices are fresh. Spices lose potency over time, so if yours have been sitting in the pantry for years, it’s time for an update! You can even create your own bespoke pumpkin pie spice blend for an extra personal touch. A pinch of salt perfectly balances the sweetness and enhances all the warm spice notes.
Cream Cheese & Powdered Sugar	These are the stars of our dreamy pumpkin cream cheese glaze. Always opt for brick-style, full-fat cream cheese for the best richness and stability. Thoroughly soften both the cream cheese and butter to room temperature before beating. This critical step ensures a perfectly smooth, lump-free glaze that melts beautifully into the warm rolls. Powdered sugar provides the ideal fine texture for a silky glaze.

By selecting high-quality ingredients and following these simple tips, you’re already halfway to creating the most incredible Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Preparing the irresistible pumpkin spice filling by whipping together butter, brown sugar, pumpkin purée, and spices, then spreading it evenly onto the Hawaiian rolls. — The magic truly begins when the aromatic filling is generously spread, promising flavor in every bite.

Storage and Reheating for Optimal Enjoyment

Fresh is Best: While incredibly delicious anytime, Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are truly at their peak when enjoyed fresh on the day they’re baked. The rolls are softest and the glaze is at its dreamiest.
Storing Leftovers: Should you find yourself with any leftovers (a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated for up to 2-3 days to maintain their freshness and prevent drying out.
Reheating for Warmth: To bring your stored rolls back to life, simply warm them gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This will restore their soft texture and gooey center, making them almost as good as fresh from the oven.

Creamy pumpkin cream cheese glaze being whisked and then generously spread over warm, freshly baked pumpkin cinnamon rolls. — The final flourish: a rich, smooth pumpkin cream cheese glaze that elevates these rolls to pure perfection.

Pro Tip: The Right Baking Pan Makes a Difference

For an evenly baked and beautifully presented batch of these magic pumpkin cinnamon rolls, I highly recommend using a ceramic 9×13-inch baking pan. Ceramic pans distribute heat very uniformly, which helps the rolls cook thoroughly without drying out the edges, ensuring every roll is perfectly golden and gooey.

Don’t Waste a Drop: Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Pumpkin Purée

Often, recipes like this one might leave you with a little leftover pumpkin purée. Don’t let it go to waste! Pumpkin is a versatile ingredient that can add moisture and flavor to a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Here are some fantastic recipes from my kitchen that will help you utilize every last bit, ensuring no pumpkin goes unloved this fall season:

Desserts

Irresistible Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Desserts

Pumpkin Cake Recipe (THE BEST EVER!)

Desserts

Delightful Pumpkin Cupcake Recipe

Breakfast

Amazing Pumpkin Scones Recipe

A plate of freshly baked Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with creamy glaze, ready to be served.

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Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (5 votes)

Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

By
Chelsea Lords

Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls come together in only 30 minutes start to finish. They’re soft, gooey, full of pumpkin spice, and topped with the dreamiest pumpkin glaze – the perfect quick fall treat!

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Yields:

12 pumpkin cinnamon rolls

Video Tutorial

Equipment Needed

9 x 13-inch baking pan
Hand mixer
Medium bowl

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Rolls

12-count package Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
9 tablespoons unsalted butter divided, softened to room temperature; do not melt!
2/3 cup soft light brown sugar gently packed
1 tablespoon canned pure pumpkin purée
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/8 teaspoon salt

For the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Glaze

2 ounces cream cheese softened, see note 1
2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened, see note 2
2 tablespoons canned pure pumpkin purée
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/8 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Baking Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly across the base of the pan. This helps create a wonderfully caramelized, non-stick bottom. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the remaining 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of softened unsalted butter, soft light brown sugar, pure pumpkin purée, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Using a hand mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is thick, smooth, and well-combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
Assemble the Rolls: Carefully slice the entire slab of Hawaiian sweet rolls in half horizontally. The goal is to separate the top and bottom halves while keeping the individual rolls connected within each half. Place the bottom half of the rolls into your prepared baking pan. Spread just under half of the pumpkin spice filling evenly over the bottom layer of rolls, ensuring it reaches all the edges. Gently place the top half of the rolls over the filling. Now, spread the remaining pumpkin spice filling over the top and sides of the rolls, making sure to cover all exposed surfaces except the very bottom.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 13–15 minutes. Watch them carefully; the rolls are ready when their tops are lightly golden brown and the filling is bubbly and aromatic. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and gooey.

Prepare the Glaze

Whip Up the Glaze: While your cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the dreamy pumpkin cream cheese glaze. In a clean medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and the 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with a hand mixer until the mixture is perfectly smooth and free of any lumps. Add the powdered sugar, additional pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Continue beating until the glaze is smooth, creamy, and holds its shape beautifully.

Finish & Serve

Glaze and Enjoy: Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool in the pan for just a few minutes (about 5-10 minutes). This brief cooling period prevents the glaze from melting completely off. Generously spoon the prepared pumpkin cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls, letting it drip enticingly into all the crevices. For an extra luxurious experience, if desired, you can add a second layer of glaze once the first layer has set slightly. Serve immediately and savor these warm, magical pumpkin cinnamon rolls!

Recipe Notes & Pro Tips

Note 1: Cream Cheese Softening: Always use brick-style, full-fat cream cheese for the best glaze consistency. To soften quickly, unwrap the cream cheese and microwave it in 5-second bursts, flipping it after each burst, until it’s pliable and smooth but not melted.

Note 2: Butter Softening: It’s crucial for butter to be at room temperature (left out for about 1 hour) for both the filling and the glaze. If you’re short on time, you can soften it in the microwave using the same method as cream cheese (5-second bursts, flipping between) without allowing it to melt.

Storage Best Practices: These rolls are truly at their best when enjoyed fresh from the oven. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore their warmth and tender texture before serving.

Achieving the Perfect Golden Top: Keep an eye on your rolls during the last few minutes of baking. The goal is a light golden brown top, indicating they are cooked through but still incredibly soft and gooey in the center. Overbaking can lead to dry rolls.

Cutting Rolls Effortlessly: When slicing the Hawaiian roll slab, a serrated knife works best. It allows you to cut through the rolls cleanly without squishing them, preserving their delicate structure.

Maximize Flavor Distribution: Ensure you spread the pumpkin spice filling all the way to the edges of the rolls. This guarantees that every single bite is packed with delicious flavor and gooey goodness.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Top Tips for Perfect Magic Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Every Time

While these rolls are incredibly easy, a few expert tips can elevate your baking experience and ensure you achieve the softest, most flavorful, and perfectly glazed pumpkin cinnamon rolls. Follow these pointers for success:

Precise Roll Cutting: Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls horizontally. This ensures a clean cut without squishing the delicate bread, making it easier to separate and spread the filling evenly.
Even Filling Distribution: Don’t be shy with the filling! Spread it generously and evenly to the very edges of both layers of rolls. This guarantees that every single bite is bursting with that incredible pumpkin spice flavor and gooey texture.
Mastering Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your rolls in the oven. The ideal bake time is 13-15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden. Pulling them out at this precise moment is key to maintaining their signature soft, tender, and delightfully gooey center. Overbaking will dry them out.
The Brief Cooling Trick: Resist the urge to glaze immediately after removing the rolls from the oven. Allow them to cool for a critical 5-10 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the rolls firm up slightly and prevents the warm glaze from simply melting and sliding off, ensuring it adheres beautifully.
Glaze While Still Warm: Once the initial cooling period is over, spoon the glaze generously over the rolls while they are still slightly warm. The residual heat will encourage the glaze to melt just enough to seep into all the nooks and crannies, creating an incredibly moist and flavorful finish.
Don’t Skimp on Softened Ingredients: For both the filling and the glaze, truly softened butter and cream cheese are non-negotiable. Cold ingredients will lead to a lumpy filling and a curdled, unappetizing glaze. Plan ahead and let them come to room temperature, or use the quick microwave method described in the recipe notes.
Pure Pumpkin Power: Always use 100% pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will disrupt the carefully balanced flavor profile of this recipe.
Fresh Spices are Key: Just like any spice-heavy recipe, the freshness of your cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice makes a huge difference. Old, stale spices lose their potency and aroma, resulting in a duller flavor.