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If you’re looking to add a touch of seasonal magic and wholesome comfort to your dinner table, this Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe is an absolute game changer. Soft, pillowy, and subtly sweet with the warmth of pumpkin and honey woven through every bite, these dinner rolls are perfect for cozy nights, festive gatherings, or simply treating yourself to something deliciously homemade. The tender crumb and golden crust make them a delightful companion to any meal, plus they fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma as they bake.

The image shows a close-up of six golden brown bread rolls with shiny surfaces, topped with scattered green pumpkin seeds. One roll is pulled apart in two halves, revealing a soft, fluffy, and light yellow inside texture. The rolls are arranged on a piece of brown parchment paper placed over a white marbled surface. A butter knife with a small amount of pale yellow butter rests above the bread rolls. A light beige cloth is partially visible to the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe is simple yet essential, working together to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the rich pumpkin puree to the gentle sweetness of honey, each component plays a part in making these rolls unforgettable.

3/4 cup whole milk, warmed to 100 degrees F (177ml): The warm milk activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
1/4 cup honey: This natural sweetener gives the rolls a subtle sweetness and helps with browning.
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 envelope): The magic behind a beautifully risen, fluffy roll.
1 egg: Adds structure and richness for a tender crumb.
1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree: Provides moisture, flavor, and a lovely orange hue.
300 g all purpose flour (about 2 cups): Forms the base of the dough for a soft texture.
300 g bread flour (about 2 cups): Adds extra gluten for chewiness and structure.
1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (2 oz or 56 g): Contributes richness and a tender bite.
1 egg, 2 teaspoons water, and 1 tablespoon honey (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden crust with a touch of sweetness.
1/3 cup pumpkin seeds: For a nutty crunch and beautiful garnish.
Granulated sugar (optional): Adds a touch of sparkle and sweetness on top.

How to Make Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by whisking the warmed milk, yeast, and honey in your stand mixer bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy and bubbling—this signals that your yeast is alive and ready to make your rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

While the yeast blooms, whisk together your all-purpose flour, bread flour, and fine sea salt in a separate bowl. Mixing the flours this way ensures the perfect texture—soft yet chewy—and the salt brings out a full flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Combine and Knead the Dough

Add the egg and pumpkin puree to the foamy milk mixture, then gradually add the flour blend. Mix on medium-low speed until the dough starts to come together. Then, add the softened butter and continue mixing for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky; you can add flour a tablespoon at a time if needed.

Step 4: First Rise

Transfer your dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 2 hours. This slow rise allows the pumpkin’s moisture and yeast to develop the dough’s flavor and softness.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Grease a 9×13 inch baking sheet. Punch down the dough gently to release any trapped air, and then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on your prepared pan, spacing them about an inch apart to give them room to bloom during the final rise.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise for about an hour, until they’ve puffed up and are touching each other. This second rise ensures rolls that are soft and wonderfully airy.

Step 7: Finish and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Whisk together the egg, water, and honey for a luscious egg wash. Brush this over the tops of the rolls, sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and a light dusting of granulated sugar if you like a bit of sparkle. Bake for 20-22 minutes, until the rolls are a gorgeous golden brown.

How to Serve Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe

Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

These rolls already come with pumpkin seeds on top, but a light drizzle of melted honey after baking adds a glossy finish and extra touch of sweetness. For an indulgent twist, a pat of cinnamon butter is heavenly.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls alongside creamy soups like butternut squash or tomato basil, hearty roasted vegetables, or a savory turkey or chicken main dish. Their subtle sweetness complements rich and savory flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls on a rustic wooden board or festive platter surrounded by sprigs of rosemary or thyme for an inviting centerpiece. You can split them open and add a smear of cream cheese or pumpkin butter for a fun snack or breakfast treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover rolls fresh by storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature. They will stay soft and tasty for about 2 days. To preserve their freshness longer, refrigerate them, but be aware this might slightly dry them out.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully. After they’ve completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To revive the soft, fresh-baked feel, warm your rolls in a 350ºF oven for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel. This method helps restore moisture and warmth, making your rolls taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute canned pumpkin puree for homemade?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe and ensures consistent moisture and flavor.

What if I don’t have bread flour?

If bread flour isn’t available, you can use all-purpose flour alone, though your rolls may be slightly less chewy and structured, but still delicious.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Since gluten is essential for the dough’s structure, making these rolls gluten-free requires a special mix of gluten-free flours and xanthan gum—something that will change the texture significantly. For best results, stick with wheat flours for this recipe.

How important is the egg wash?

The egg wash is what gives these rolls their beautiful golden, shiny crust. While not mandatory, it definitely elevates the appearance and adds a subtle gloss.

Can I add spices to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to add warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger (about 1 teaspoon total) to the dry ingredients for an extra cozy fall flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin and honey.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe is one of those delightful treasures that make baking at home incredibly rewarding. Soft, fluffy, and packed with subtle sweetness and autumnal character, these rolls will easily become a favorite staple whether for a special holiday meal or a simple family dinner. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making them again and again!

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Honey Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe