As the leaves change color and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a warm, comforting dessert. If you’re looking for a festive, fall-inspired treat, these Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups are the perfect choice! Combining the sweet, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie with the fluffy goodness of cinnamon rolls, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups
Pumpkin pie is a classic fall dessert, and when paired with cinnamon rolls, it creates an irresistible combination of flavors. These Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a cozy treat, this recipe brings together two beloved desserts in a fun, individual-sized format.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delightful Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream (for serving, optional)
These ingredients come together quickly, making this recipe perfect for those busy fall days when you want to whip up something sweet in no time.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or line it with paper liners for easy cleanup. Open the can of cinnamon rolls and set aside the icing (you’ll use it later). Cut each cinnamon roll in half and place one half in each muffin cup, gently pressing down to form a base.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Pie Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This will be your pumpkin pie filling.
Step 3: Fill the Cinnamon Roll Cups
Spoon the pumpkin filling evenly over the cinnamon roll bases in each muffin cup. Be sure to fill each cup to about three-quarters full, leaving a little room at the top for the cinnamon roll topping.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking.
Step 5: Add the Icing
Once baked, remove the Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top of each cup for that sweet, creamy finishing touch.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups warm with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. These cups are the perfect balance of cinnamon, spice, and everything nice!
Tips for Success
- Use pure pumpkin puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter already contains added spices and sweeteners that could alter the flavor balance.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the cinnamon roll cups and pumpkin filling the night before, then assemble and bake them the next day. This makes it a great option for busy mornings or when hosting a brunch.
- Customize the Spice: If you’re a fan of more spice, feel free to increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg for a stronger flavor profile.
- Top with a Sprinkle of Cinnamon: For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the whipped cream or icing.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Fall
These Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups are the ideal fall dessert, blending the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the comfort of cinnamon rolls. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or any occasion when you want to enjoy the flavors of fall in an easy, fun format. Plus, the individual servings make them a crowd-pleaser!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines two iconic fall treats into one irresistible bite, these Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups are the answer. With their warm, spiced pumpkin filling and soft, gooey cinnamon roll crust, they’re sure to become your new go-to fall dessert. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat after dinner, these cups will bring the cozy flavors of autumn to your table in the best way possible.
Don’t forget to try this recipe out next time you’re craving something sweet and festive—your taste buds will thank you!
Serving and Storage Tips for Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups
To make sure your Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups stay fresh and delicious, here are some helpful serving and storage tips:
Serving Tips
- Serve Warm: These cups are best enjoyed warm! The cinnamon rolls stay soft and the pumpkin filling is comforting and creamy when served fresh out of the oven. If serving them at a gathering, you can warm them slightly in the oven before serving.
- Topping Ideas: While the reserved cinnamon roll icing is the perfect finishing touch, you can also get creative with toppings. A dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or even a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup can elevate the flavor.
- Pair with Beverages: For a well-rounded fall treat, serve these cups with a hot beverage like spiced apple cider, a latte, or a cup of warm tea. Their sweet, spiced flavor pairs wonderfully with these drinks.
- Individual Portions: These cups are already individually portioned, making them perfect for serving at parties, brunches, or family gatherings. They’re also great for those who want a controlled portion size for easy snacking.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups within a few hours, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. They will stay fresh and soft for up to 1-2 days.
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, place the cups in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pumpkin filling may slightly firm up in the fridge, but they will still be delicious when reheated.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the cups in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore their soft texture and bring back the warmth of the cinnamon roll.
- Freezing: You can also freeze Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups for longer storage. Wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups for several days, making them a convenient and delicious fall treat any time you need a little indulgence.
1. Can I make Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cinnamon roll cups and pumpkin filling the night before. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble them just before baking. This makes them perfect for busy mornings or when hosting a brunch.
2. Can I use a different type of dough for the cups?
While this recipe calls for refrigerated cinnamon rolls, you can try using biscuit dough or puff pastry as an alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change slightly, but it will still create a delicious result.
3. Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups?
Yes, you can freeze these cups! Once baked and cooled, wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
4. Can I make these without pumpkin pie spice?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can easily substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. About 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger and cloves should give you a similar flavor.
Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 30-33 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These delightful Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups combine the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie with the sweet, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they offer a convenient, handheld treat that’s ideal for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 can (8 count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Prepare the Muffin Tin:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray 8 cups of a standard muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
- Flatten the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Open the can of cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside.
- Flatten each cinnamon roll with the palm of your hand to create a disc large enough to line the bottom and sides of a muffin cup.
- Form the Cups:
- Press each flattened cinnamon roll into a prepared muffin cup, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides to form a cup shape.
- Make the Pumpkin Filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, cornstarch, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and well combined.
- Fill the Cups:
- Spoon the pumpkin mixture evenly into each cinnamon roll cup, filling them almost to the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set.
- Cool and Glaze:
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the cups cool for about 5 minutes.
- Drizzle the reserved icing over the top of each cup while they are still warm.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the cups from the muffin tin and serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
- Variations: For added texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the pumpkin filling before baking.
- Serving Suggestion: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.