Introduction

Pumpkin Dinner Rolls with Honey Butter are soft, pillowy rolls infused with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin and warm autumn spices. They’re not just a side dish—they’re the star of any fall gathering, Thanksgiving feast, or cozy family dinner. The pumpkin purée adds moisture, color, and a delicate sweetness, while the honey butter topping brings irresistible richness and shine.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes the humble dinner roll and transforms it into something special. The pumpkin not only enhances the flavor but also gives these rolls a beautiful golden-orange hue that looks stunning on any table. The combination of slightly sweet bread and buttery honey glaze makes these rolls versatile—they pair perfectly with soups, stews, roasted meats, or even on their own as a snack.

This is a Must Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it blends comfort, tradition, and seasonal charm in one. If you love homemade bread, these rolls are easier to make than you might think, and the reward is incredible. They’re a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both adults and kids, and they taste even better the next day. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want a cozy homemade treat, Pumpkin Dinner Rolls with Honey Butter will become a go-to favorite.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 1.5–2 hours rising time)
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: About 2.5–3 hours
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories: ~210 kcal per roll (with honey butter glaze)
• Course: Side Dish / Bread
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Rolls

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¼ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ⅛ tsp ground cloves (optional, for warmth)

For the Honey Butter Glaze

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp honey
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, egg, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Stir in the yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

1. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.
2. Shape each portion into a smooth ball.
3. Arrange balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover and let rolls rise for another 30–40 minutes, until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

Step 7: Brush with Honey Butter

1. Mix melted butter, honey, and a pinch of salt.
2. Brush the warm rolls generously with honey butter right out of the oven.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method (Simplified)

1. Activate yeast in warm milk and sugar.
2. Mix pumpkin, egg, butter, spices, and yeast mixture.
3. Add flour to form dough.
4. Knead dough until smooth.
5. Let rise until doubled.
6. Shape into 12 rolls and arrange in baking dish.
7. Let rise again.
8. Bake until golden.
9. Brush with honey butter and serve warm.

How to Serve

• Serve rolls warm with extra honey butter on the side.
• Pair with roasted meats, soups, or stews.
• Use them as slider buns for leftover turkey or ham sandwiches.

Recipe Tips

• Make sure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast won’t rise.
• Don’t add too much flour—dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
• For a shinier finish, brush rolls with an egg wash before baking.
• To speed up rising, place dough in a warm oven with just the light on.

Variations

• Savory Twist: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of spices.
• Stuffed Rolls: Fill each dough ball with cream cheese or cheese cubes before baking.
• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Sweet Version: Add 2 more tablespoons sugar and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container for 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge up to 5 days (reheat before serving).
• Freezing (Baked Rolls): Freeze baked and cooled rolls in a freezer bag up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
• Freezing (Unbaked Dough): Shape rolls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge, let rise, and bake as directed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, for easier kneading)
• 9×13-inch baking dish or baking sheet
• Pastry brush (for honey butter)

FAQ

Q1: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, shape the rolls, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day after the second rise.

Q2: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?
No, use pure pumpkin purée. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices that will affect the recipe.

Q3: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, skip the proofing step and mix directly into the dry ingredients.

Q4: Why are my rolls dense instead of fluffy?
Either too much flour was added or the dough didn’t rise long enough. Always check yeast activity and give proper rising time.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use two pans to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Dinner Rolls with Honey Butter are the perfect addition to your autumn and holiday table. Soft, slightly sweet, and golden in color, they bring a cozy seasonal touch to any meal. The honey butter glaze makes them irresistible, and they’re versatile enough to enjoy as a side dish, a sandwich bun, or simply on their own. Once you try them, you’ll see why they’re a must-have recipe for fall and beyond—comforting, beautiful, and delicious.