There’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of freshly baked pumpkin buns filling my kitchen on a crisp fall afternoon. These fluffy pumpkin buns are soft, slightly sweet, and packed with warm spices that make them the ultimate comfort bake for the season. I love serving them fresh out of the oven with a drizzle of glaze or a pat of butter—they’re a true autumn delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe captures the essence of fall in every bite. The pumpkin puree keeps the buns moist and tender, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring that comforting, seasonal flavor. The dough rises beautifully, resulting in a soft, pillowy texture that pairs perfectly with a sweet cream cheese glaze. Whether I’m baking for brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack, these buns never fail to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the buns:
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend)
1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
½ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
½ cup milk (dairy or almond milk)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)
2 large eggs
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet active dry yeast)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
For the topping:
¼ cup softened cream cheese (optional)
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Suggested substitutions:
Flour: I sometimes use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Sugar: Stevia or honey works well for a lighter option.
Milk: Soy milk or oat milk is a great dairy-free alternative.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the dough
I start by whisking together flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. In another bowl, I mix pumpkin puree, warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and yeast until smooth. Then I combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the dough
I transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. After forming it into a ball, I place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the buns
Once risen, I punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½ inch thick. I cut it into squares or circles, depending on my mood, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Second rise
I cover the shaped buns loosely with a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes, until they’re puffy and soft.
Step 5: Bake the buns
I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. I let them cool on a wire rack before adding the glaze.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12 fluffy buns
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1–2 hours
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours and 40 minutes
These buns are best served warm right out of the oven, and the heavenly aroma during baking makes the wait completely worth it.
Variations
I sometimes add chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the dough for extra richness. A sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking adds a lovely crunch. For a more festive twist, I mix in dried cranberries or drizzle the finished buns with maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, I reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes—they come out just as soft as when freshly baked. For longer storage, I wrap each bun in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. It makes baking the next day much easier.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! I cook and puree fresh pumpkin before using it, ensuring it’s smooth and not too watery.
How can I make these buns vegan?
I replace the eggs with flaxseed meal, the butter with coconut oil, and use any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the glaze?
I like to make a simple vanilla glaze using powdered sugar and milk—it’s lighter and just as delicious.
Can I add mix-ins to the dough?
Yes, I often toss in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to give the buns extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These fluffy pumpkin buns are my go-to fall treat—they’re soft, fragrant, and irresistibly delicious. Every bite captures the warmth and coziness of the season, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends. I love baking a batch on chilly weekends to fill my home with that comforting pumpkin spice aroma. Whether enjoyed plain, glazed, or stuffed with fall flavors, these buns are sure to become a seasonal favorite in any kitchen.
Fluffy Pumpkin Buns are soft, spiced, and lightly sweetened rolls made with pumpkin puree and warm fall spices. Perfect for chilly mornings or holiday gatherings, they’re finished with a simple glaze or cream cheese topping for extra indulgence.
