Irresistible PSL Cinnamon Rolls for a Cozy Fall Morning

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, my kitchen fills with the comforting scent of cinnamon and nutmeg—nothing says fall quite like a warm Pumpkin Spice Latte. One morning, with a craving for something a little more indulgent, I decided to transform that beloved seasonal drink into a breakfast treat that’s sure to impress: Pumpkin Spice Latte Cinnamon Rolls.

These soft, gooey rolls are a blissful fusion of fluffy dough and the rich flavors of pumpkin and coffee, topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. They’re perfect for cozy weekend brunches or those chilly mornings when you want a dose of delight to kickstart your day. Imagine pulling apart a roll, the sugary glaze dripping down as you savor the first bite, and feeling the warmth of autumn envelop you. With every twist and turn of dough, you’ll be reminded why this decadent recipe deserves a place on your fall breakfast table!

Why You’ll Adore These PSL Cinnamon Rolls?

Irresistible flavors burst forth in every bite, merging the warmth of pumpkin spice with the rich depth of coffee.
Perfect for chilly mornings, these rolls elevate your breakfast game and bring a cozy vibe to your kitchen.
Simple to make, even novice bakers will shine with this straightforward recipe that delivers impressive results.
Versatile options allow you to customize with nuts or a fluffier texture using different flours.
Crowd-pleasing delight makes them the ultimate treat for fall gatherings or a special weekend brunch.
Indulge in the essence of autumn wrapped in delightful rolls that are not only comforting but also nostalgic!

PSL Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough
• Active Dry Yeast – Ensure it is fresh for the best rise and fluffy texture.
• Warm Milk – Activates the yeast; use whole milk for creaminess.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with bread flour for added chewiness.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; consider coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel; can swap with darker brown sugar.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; feel free to use sea salt as an alternative.
• Pumpkin Spice – Infuses seasonal flavor; try making your own blend for a personal touch.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients; a flax egg substitutes well for a vegan option.
• Pumpkin Puree – Contributes moisture and fall flavor; use applesauce for a lighter alternative.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; vegan butter works for a dairy-free option.

For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – Creates a luscious filling that melts beautifully; Greek yogurt can reduce fat.
• Light Brown Sugar – Enhances the filling’s taste with caramel notes; can use dark brown sugar if preferred.
• Pumpkin Spice – Reinforces the seasonal flavor; your homemade mix adds a unique twist.
• Cinnamon – Complements the pumpkin spice; adjust to taste for extra warmth.

For the Glaze
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Creates a sweet glaze; powdered monk fruit sweetener is a nice lower-sugar option.
• Instant Coffee – Deepens the coffee flavor for a true PSL experience; omit for a pure cinnamon delight.
• Warm Milk (for glaze) – Achieves a creamy consistency for the glaze; use the same milk from the dough.

How to Make PSL Cinnamon Rolls

1. Prepare Dough: In a bowl, mix active dry yeast with warm milk and let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes. Next, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, kosher salt, and pumpkin spice. Add the egg, pumpkin puree, and softened unsalted butter, then knead the mixture until smooth and elastic, approximately 8-10 minutes.

2. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. The dough should feel light and airy when ready.

3. Prepare Filling: In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, light brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon until smooth and combined. This mixture will create a deliciously gooey filling.

4. Shape Rolls: Roll the risen dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the dough. Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into individual rolls, about 1-2 inches thick. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish.

5. Second Rise: Cover the arranged rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. The rolls should have puffed up nicely; you’ll know they are ready when they feel soft and airy to the touch.

6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. They should smell amazing and have a warm, inviting color.

7. Make Glaze: While the rolls are baking, beat together confectioners’ sugar, softened butter, instant coffee, pumpkin spice, and warm milk until smooth. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the creamy glaze generously over them while they are still warm.

Optional: Sprinkle additional pumpkin spice on top for an extra seasonal touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze PSL Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Store leftover PSL cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they’re wrapped well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Unbaked, rolled cinnamon rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking for fresh, warm rolls any time!

Reheating: Reheat rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, drizzling with extra glaze if desired.

Expert Tips for Making PSL Cinnamon Rolls

• Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your active dry yeast is fresh. Expired yeast will result in dense rolls that don’t rise properly.

• Proper Milk Temperature: Use warm milk (about 110°F) to activate the yeast—too hot will kill it, while too cold won’t awaken it fully.

• Kneading Technique: Don’t skip kneading! This is crucial for developing gluten, which gives your PSL cinnamon rolls that tender texture.

• Rising Time: Be patient with rising times—allowing the dough to double in size will ensure light, fluffy rolls. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven.

• Cooling Before Glaze: Let the rolls cool for about 5-10 minutes before adding the glaze. This helps the glaze set nicely instead of running off completely.

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them overnight for a quick bake in the morning, making breakfast effortless.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful PSL Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall with minimal effort! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the rolled cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight to prevent rising too much. When you’re ready to bake, let them rise at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes before preheating your oven. For longer storage, unbaked rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month; just thaw them overnight in the fridge, then follow the final rise and baking instructions. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cinnamon rolls at your fingertips, just as delicious as if you made them on the spot!

PSL Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful rolls and make them your own!

• Sweet Potato Swirl: Substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a subtly different flavor and gorgeous color.
  Imagine the creamy sweetness of sweet potatoes wrapping you in warmth, perfect for an autumn treat!

• Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the filling for added crunch and texture.
  This adds a delightful bite and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Dairy-Free Bliss: Use vegan butter and almond milk for a completely dairy-free version, making these delicious rolls accessible for everyone.
  Your cozy morning treat won’t lose any of its charm!

• Spiced and Chai: Mix chai spice with the pumpkin spice for a warming twist that brings an aromatic depth to the rolls.
  With each bite, let the rich flavors of cardamom and ginger dance on your palate.

• Maple Glaze: Replace the standard glaze with a maple syrup glaze for an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon rolls.
  The rich maple flavor will evoke cozy gatherings around the table and sweet moments shared.

• Coffee-Less Option: Omit the instant coffee from the glaze and filling for a classic pumpkin spice flavor that shines on its own.
  Pure pumpkin spice will take center stage, letting that comforting fall flavor shine through.

• Cinnamon-Sugar Dusting: Before baking, sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar on top of the rolls for a sweeter, crunchy finish.
  This sugary topping will caramelize in the oven, providing a delightful contrast to the soft rolls beneath.

• Zesty Citrus: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest to the glaze for a bright, refreshing note that balances the sweetness.
  A splash of citrus will awaken your taste buds, making these rolls feel even more vibrant!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Latte Cinnamon Rolls?

Treat your senses to a cozy fall breakfast experience with delectable pairings that enhance your PSL Cinnamon Rolls.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of apples, pears, and berries adds a refreshing contrast to the cinnamon rolls’ richness while keeping the meal light and balanced.

• Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai complement the cinnamon and pumpkin flavors, providing a warming beverage that fits perfectly with the season.

• Maple Bacon: The savory, smoky notes of crispy bacon work wonderfully with the sweetness of the rolls, offering a delightful balance of flavors to your table.

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an indulgent touch. Drizzling some extra pumpkin spice over the top will tie in beautifully with the rolls.

• Hot Apple Cider: Fusing the warm spices of apple cider with the cinnamon rolls creates a comforting drink that elevates your cozy morning experience to new heights.

• Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some homemade or store-bought granola over your rolls adds delightful crunch and a nutty flavor, providing an enjoyable textural contrast to the gooey interior.

Imagine inviting friends and family over to enjoy these exquisite combinations while basking in the aromas of autumn—each bite and sip echoing the spirit of the season!

PSL Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for a brand that lists 100% pumpkin with no added sugars or spices. Ensure it has a smooth texture without any lumps or dark spots, indicating freshness. You can make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin, which adds a lovely homemade touch!

How should I store my leftover PSL cinnamon rolls?
To keep your PSL cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week, but make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze unbaked PSL cinnamon rolls? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked PSL cinnamon rolls for up to 1 month! To do this, roll up the dough with filling, slice into individual rolls, and place them on a baking sheet to freeze first. Once solid, transfer the rolls into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then allow them to rise for 30-45 minutes before baking.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for cinnamon rolls?
If your PSL cinnamon rolls don’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date and ensure your milk is warm enough (around 110°F). If the rolls are too dense, knead the dough longer to develop gluten properly. Lastly, for uneven baking, ensure your oven is properly preheated and rotate the pan halfway through baking for even heat distribution.

Are these PSL cinnamon rolls suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for dietary needs. Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or whole grain to enhance nutrition. For vegan options, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. Always ensure any substitutes align with your dietary restrictions.

How long can I keep frozen PSL cinnamon rolls in the freezer?
Unbaked PSL cinnamon rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month for optimal freshness. After that, they may still be safe to eat, but their quality might diminish. Label your containers with the date to keep track of how long they’ve been stored!