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Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls

Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls

Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls are soft, sweet, and moist dinner rolls that combine the natural earthiness of pumpkin with the gentle sweetness of honey. Perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals, these rolls feature a tender crumb, vibrant golden color, and an inviting aroma that enhances any table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they are an approachable and festive treat everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
  • ⅓ cup honey, divided
  • ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C; use plant-based milk for vegan option)
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter (use vegan butter for vegan option)
  • 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: Warm the milk until comfortably warm to the touch. Stir in the active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of honey. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, remaining honey (about ¼ cup), melted butter, egg, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir well. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead and proof the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  4. Shape and second rise: Punch down the risen dough and divide into equal portions (about 12 rolls). Shape each portion into a roll and arrange closely in a greased baking pan. Cover and allow to rise again for 30 to 40 minutes until puffy.
  5. Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Measure flour carefully by spooning and leveling to avoid dry rolls.
  • Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal fermentation.
  • Do not skip the second rise; it ensures soft, fluffy rolls with tender crumb.
  • Brushing butter before or after baking adds shine and flavor.
  • Use fresh yeast to guarantee proper dough rising.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin rolls, honey dinner rolls, pumpkin puree rolls, soft pumpkin bread, fall dinner rolls, holiday rolls