If you’re longing for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall, you will absolutely adore this Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These rolls combine the warm spice of cinnamon, the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, and the fresh burst of tender apple chunks, all wrapped up in a soft, pillowy dough. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each bite offers a delightful harmony of creamy, fruity, and spicy notes. This recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that’s easy enough for a weekend breakfast or special enough for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white frying pan filled with small yellow potato cubes spread evenly inside, sitting on a stove with a black surface. Above the pan, a woman's hand is pouring a golden-brown liquid from a clear glass bottle into a metal teaspoon held by another woman's hand over the pan. In the background, there is a wooden cutting board with red-brown dried leaves hanging above it and a lit candle on the left, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the overall texture, flavor, and inviting aroma that fill your kitchen the moment you start baking.

Salted Butter (1 Tablespoon): Adds richness and helps caramelize the apple filling beautifully.
Apple, skin on and diced (1 1/2 Cups): Provides fresh, juicy bursts of fruity sweetness and a lovely texture throughout the rolls.
Vanilla Extract (1/4 Teaspoon): Lends a warm, aromatic sweetness that ties the flavors together.
Cinnamon (2 Teaspoons): The quintessential warming spice that brings the rolls’ flavor to life.
White Sugar (2 Tablespoons): Balances the tartness of the apple while helping the filling caramelize.
Brown Sugar (2 Tablespoons): Adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor that complements the pumpkin and cinnamon.
Frozen Dinner Rolls, defrosted (12 rolls): The convenient base that transforms into a soft, fluffy pumpkin roll.
Baker’s Twine, food grade: For that charming presentation when tying up bundles of rolls.
Egg: Helps brush the rolls for a gorgeous golden finish.
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
- Butter, melted and cooled (2 Tablespoons): Gives the frosting a silky texture.
- Cream Cheese, room temperature (2 Ounces): The star of the frosting, adding tangy richness.
- Powdered Sugar (1 Cup): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spread.
- Vanilla Extract (1/2 Teaspoon): Enhances the frosting’s flavor with subtle warmth.
Toppings: Cinnamon sticks cut in half and edible maple leaves add the perfect festive touch.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by melting the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced apples, cinnamon, white sugar, and brown sugar. Stir that mixture as it cooks until the apples soften just enough to release their natural sweetness but still hold their shape—this will ensure bursts of flavor in every bite. Finish with the vanilla extract for an extra hint of warmth.

Step 2: Ready the Dinner Rolls

Take the defrosted frozen dinner rolls and carefully unroll each one on a lightly floured surface. These rolls form your soft, pumpkin-scented cake base. You’ll want to gently press them out to smooth any folds, creating an even layer perfect for spreading the apple filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Spread the apple mixture evenly over each roll, making sure every piece gets a deliciously fruity layer. Roll them back up snugly but not too tight to keep the soft texture inside.

Step 4: Tie and Brush

Use food-grade baker’s twine to tie each roll or bundle of rolls, giving a charming homemade touch that’s perfect for gifting or presentation. Beat the egg and brush it lightly over the rolls for a shiny, golden crust once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the tied rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake until the rolls are puffed up and golden, and the kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls cool slightly, beat together the melted butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This frosting is the magic finishing touch that elevates these rolls from delicious to unforgettable.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls—the slight warmth will melt the frosting just enough for a luscious drizzle. Add cinnamon sticks and edible maple leaves for a festive and inviting presentation.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The image shows five small pumpkin-shaped breads on brown parchment paper on a baking tray. Each bread is light golden-brown with crease lines creating the pumpkin shape. One bread in the front center has white cream cheese frosting thickly spread on top, dripping slightly over the edges. A woman's hand is gently placing a stick of cinnamon vertically in the center of the frosted bread, making it look like a pumpkin stem. The background has a softly blurred white marbled surface with a lit brown-orange candle and a small white bowl with cinnamon sticks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of ground cinnamon or a few pecan halves can accentuate the rustic feel, but nothing beats the elegance of cinnamon sticks nestled alongside edible maple leaves, adding a cozy, autumnal flourish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls with a cup of chai tea or spiced coffee to complement the warm spices. A fresh fruit salad featuring pears and cranberries can add a light, tart contrast, balancing the richness of the rolls beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Bundling a handful of these rolls with baker’s twine and presenting them in a rustic wooden box or on a vintage platter makes for an irresistible gift or centerpiece. For brunch, arrange them in a circular pattern on a large plate with frosting drizzled artistically on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Rolls snugly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The rolls are best enjoyed fresh but will remain soft and flavorful if stored properly.

Freezing

These rolls freeze wonderfully. After they have cooled completely, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Warm the rolls gently in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or microwave them for about 20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked softness. Add a little extra dollop of cream cheese frosting after reheating to restore the indulgent finish.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of relying on frozen dinner rolls with pumpkin flavor?

While this recipe calls for frozen dinner rolls defrosted and shaped to include the pumpkin flavor, you can incorporate fresh pumpkin puree into your dough for an even more authentic pumpkin taste. Just be sure to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly to keep the dough soft and pliable.

Is it okay to substitute cream cheese frosting with a simple glaze?

Absolutely! If you prefer something lighter, a glaze made from powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract will complement the rolls nicely, though it won’t have the creamy tang that gives this recipe its signature flair.

Can I make these rolls vegan or dairy-free?

With some easy swaps like dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and egg replacer, you can enjoy these Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe in a vegan-friendly way without sacrificing taste or texture.

What type of apples work best in this recipe?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal as they hold their shape and provide a pleasant tartness and crunch against the softness of the rolls.

How far ahead can I prepare the rolls before baking?

You can assemble the rolls a day in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Allow them to come back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Final Thoughts

If you want to fill your home with the cozy spirit of autumn and delight everyone with a truly irresistible treat, I encourage you to try this Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s simple enough to make on any morning yet special enough to impress at your next gathering. Trust me, once you taste these rolls, they’ll become a beloved tradition in your kitchen too!