Ingredients
Method
Make & Proof the Pumpkin Dough
- Activate Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk (105°-110°F), granulated sugar, and yeast. Whisk gently and let sit for 5 to 7 minutes until frothy and fragrant.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk in the pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smoothly incorporated.
- Knead Dough: Fit mixer with dough hook. Add flour, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Knead on low speed for 8 to 10 minutes until a smooth, pliable, slightly tacky dough forms that pulls away cleanly from the sides. (If using hands, knead on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes).
- First Rise: Form the dough into a smooth ball and place into an oiled bowl. Cover with a warm, damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm spot for 60 to 75 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Roll, Fill & Shape the Rolls
- Roll Out Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured countertop. Roll into a large 12x18-inch rectangle approximately ¼-inch thick.
- Spread Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly across the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along the far long edge. In a small bowl, mix dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then sprinkle generously over the butter, patting it down gently to adhere.
- Roll & Slice: Starting from the long edge closest to you, roll the dough tightly into a uniform 18-inch cylinder. Using unflavored dental floss or clean sewing thread (or a very sharp serrated knife), slice into 12 equal rolls, about 1 ½ inches thick.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a buttered 9x13-inch ceramic or metal baking dish. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and touching.
Bake & Slather Maple Glaze
- Bake to Golden: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). (Baker's Secret: Pour ⅓ cup warm heavy cream over the risen rolls right before baking for ultra-gooey bakery texture!). Bake for 22 to 26 minutes until tops are lightly golden brown and centers register 190°F.
- Whip Glaze & Frost: While baking, beat cream cheese, butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and powdered sugar until ultra-fluffy and smooth. Spread half the warm glaze over the rolls 5 minutes out of the oven so it melts into every crevice, then dollop the remaining glaze over the top before serving warm!
Notes
Overnight Make-Ahead Method: After slicing and placing the rolls into the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (up to 16 hours). In the morning, bring rolls to room temperature in a warm spot for 45 to 60 minutes to complete their second rise before baking as directed!